Newmarket, Ontario, residents are voicing concerns over a recent dog attack that left a family shaken and seeking justice. Stephen Burnley, a resident of Newmarket, was spending a peaceful Canada Day in his backyard with his partner and beloved dog, Rex, when a neighboring dog hopped over the fence, launching a vicious assault. The unexpected attack resulted in injuries to both Burnley and his partner as they fought to protect their pet from the aggressive canine.
Burnley described the incident as a brutal attack, with the neighbor’s dog grabbing Rex by the throat and attempting to drag him away. The intense struggle left Burnley and his partner with bites, prompting a trip to the hospital for treatment. Despite reporting the incident to authorities, they faced challenges in getting the necessary enforcement to ensure the safety of their family and pets.
The Town of Newmarket’s animal services issued a dangerous dog order following the attack, mandating that the dog be tethered on the property. However, Burnley alleged that the neighbor repeatedly violated the order, raising concerns about the effectiveness of existing laws and enforcement mechanisms. Despite efforts to address the situation, the family’s ordeal continued, leaving Burnley frustrated with the lack of resolution.
In response to the incident, Newmarket authorities confirmed that they were actively investigating and engaging in enforcement measures. Jacob Brewer, the animal services supervisor, emphasized that all dogs are treated equally under municipal bylaws, focusing on factors like the severity of the bite and the probability of a repeat offense. The complexity of escalating the matter to provincial legislation, specifically the Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA), added another layer of challenge for Burnley and his family.
While DOLA holds owners accountable for their dogs’ actions, including the option to destroy a dog deemed a public threat, Burnley expressed reservations about pursuing that course of action. His primary concern was ensuring that the owner faced consequences for their negligence, rather than penalizing the animal. Recent adjustments to DOLA by the Ford government aimed to address breed-specific concerns and improve procedures for handling dog-related incidents.
Amidst growing calls for reform, Burnley urged for a shift in how laws are enforced, emphasizing the role of responsible ownership in preventing such incidents. The prevalence of dog attacks in Newmarket has raised alarm among residents, underscoring the need for comprehensive measures to protect the community. As discussions around legislative amendments continue, Burnley remains adamant about raising awareness and seeking justice for his family and beloved pet, Rex.