A dog owner is set to receive compensation after he and his Collie were attacked by a vicious XL bully in East Kilbride. The incident, which occurred on February 18 last year, resulted in the XL bully named Kilo being shot dead by police. Hamilton Sheriff Court heard that Tya Miller, 19, was in charge of the dangerously out-of-control dog in the Calderwood area of Mannering.
The dog owner required hospital treatment following the attack, while Miller sustained bites to her hand and finger as she attempted to intervene and separate the animals. Neighbours stepped in as the situation escalated, with Miller herself acknowledging the severity of the incident by stating, “Someone needs to put this dog down.” In response to the escalating danger, armed police officers were called in and ultimately shot the XL bully at the scene.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Miller had been caring for the dog on behalf of a friend and had not been provided any information about the dog’s temperament. Despite the unfortunate turn of events, Miller’s lawyer emphasised her experience in caring for dogs throughout her life. The solicitor also highlighted Miller’s immediate acceptance of responsibility for the incident and the impact it had on those involved.
In her ruling, Sheriff Louise Gallacher directed Miller to pay £750 in compensation to the Collie’s owner. Despite the compensation order, the sheriff opted against banning Miller from owning dogs, noting her efforts to prevent the attack and the injuries she sustained while doing so.
In conclusion, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the potential consequences of failing to control dangerous animals. It also highlights the need for dog carers to be adequately informed about the temperament and behaviour of the dogs they are looking after to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.