Dog attacks in and around Toronto have become increasingly common and can happen anywhere. The increasing frequency of dog attacks in the city has caused concerns in recent years and has drawn attention from both the public and city officials. This disturbing trend has been prevalent throughout the city and tends to rise during the warmer months. The increase in incidents has forced discussions to occur amongst city councillors and residents (both dog owners and non-dog owners) about responsible pet ownership, the efficacy of existing legislation, and the actions needed to ensure public safety.
Rising Incidence of Dog Attacks in Toronto
In 2022, Toronto reported 1,316 dog attacks on humans, representing a dramatic 39% increase from the 946 incidents reported in 2021. Additionally, there was a 19% rise in dog-to-animal confrontations during the same period. This alarming rise in serious incidents has raised concerns among residents and authorities alike, prompting calls for more stringent measures to curb this problem.
Dangerous Dog Orders and Compliance
The City of Toronto issues Dangerous Dog Orders for dogs involved in acts of dangerously aggressive behavior, including bites and attacks. The city’s Dangerous Dog Orders (DDO) have also seen fluctuations, with 135 dogs under DDO in 2023, slightly down from 140 in 2022 but up from 117 in 2021. These orders are issued when a dog has been involved in a severe incident, such as a bite or attack, and impose specific conditions on the owner to prevent future occurrences.
It is essential to note that most dog attacks and bites are not reported to the city.
Despite these measures, compliance among dog owners remains a challenge, as it ultimately rests with the dog owner to adhere to them. In 2023, there were numerous reports of dogs under DDOs being involved in further attacks, showing that while the DDO may be a deterrent to attacks, it is not a solution.
Has Breed-Specific Legislation Been Effective?
Ontario implemented breed-specific legislation (BSL) in 2005 in an attempt to reduce instances of aggressive attacks involving specific dog breeds, such as pit bulls, that are considered to have a higher likelihood of such attacks. While the intention was to curb the problem of dog attacks in the city, the effectiveness of this legislation has been called into question, as there was a 57% increase in reported dog bite incidents between 2005 and 2014.
Critics argue that the causes of these attacks are multifold and need a targeted solution. They claim that socialization, proper training, the use of harnesses and restraints, and fenced-in dog parks will lead to higher effectiveness than legislation targeting specific dog breeds. They claim targeting breeds is a narrow-focused approach that unfairly singles out dog breeds.
What are Some Recent High-Profile Dog Attacks?
Over the past few years, there have been multiple high-profile dog attacks in and around the Greater Toronto Area. One high-profile incident occurred in East York during the summer of 2023, when a local woman was severely mauled by two dogs while walking, resulting in serious injuries requiring hospitalization. It is worth noting that in this attack, the dogs involved had previously been designated as dangerous, which raises questions about the effectiveness of existing enforcement measures.
Similarly, in March 2024, a young boy was viciously attacked in Little Norway Park by two American Pocket Bully dogs already registered through the Dangerous Dog Orders. The attack resulted in the boy suffering serious, life-altering injuries. Subsequently, the dogs were euthanized, and the dog owner was charged with multiple charges, including criminal negligence. Patrycja Siarek has pleaded guilty to the charges.
How Has Toronto Responded?
In response to the increasing number of dog attack incidents, the city of Toronto has implemented several measures aimed at enhancing public safety. As of April 2024, owners of dogs deemed dangerous are required to post city supplied warning signs on their property. Non-compliance can result in fines of up to $615 or court-issued penalties of up to $100,000.
Additionally, the city now provides an easily accessible online public database of dangerous dogs. This online registry includes information such as the dog’s name, breed, and the first three digits of the owner’s postal code (not specific addresses). The goal is to help residents stay informed and make decisions to keep themselves and their pets safe.
What is the Role of Responsible Pet Ownership?
While legislative measures are essential, responsible pet ownership is key to preventing dog bites and attacks. Training, socializing with people and other dogs, and keeping your dog leashed when in public areas will help create a well-behaved dog that has a lower chance of being involved in an attack.
The City of Toronto encourages dog owners to seek professional training when needed. This training can be done by employing a professional trainer or by yourself with proper guidance. It is also recommended that dog owners be required to use leashes and muzzles for dogs deemed dangerous. Education campaigns and community outreach efforts are ongoing, aiming to make responsible pet ownership a shared priority across the city.
Comparative Insights Across Canada
Toronto is not the only major Canadian city facing a growing issue with dog attacks and bites; other Canadian cities have also seen a rise in dog-related incidents. In Ottawa, for instance, there were 845 reported cases of dog bites or attacks in 2023, up from 715 in 2022. This trend is most likely linked to the spike in dog ownership during the COVID-19 pandemic when many families adopted or purchased new pets from breeders but might not have had access to sufficient training resources.
The increase in dog attacks in and around Toronto indicates that additional measures are needed to protect Torontonians. More responsibility needs to be taken by dog owners to limit these incidents as well. All residents of Toronto should be able to be outdoors safely without any concerns about being attacked and bitten by a dog.
What Should You Do If You’ve Been Attacked?
If you or a loved one lives in or around the Greater Toronto Area and has been seriously injured in a dog attack, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention. Then contact Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers, as we can help you get justice and compensation for your injuries.
For over 50 years, our law firm has assisted seriously injured individuals, fighting on their behalf and allowing them to focus solely on rehabilitation. We know that recovering from a dog attack is tough, and navigating insurance claims during that time is daunting. Allow us to alleviate the stress associated with fighting for your rights.
If you’ve been seriously injured in a dog attack, call Bergel Magence at 416-665-2000 for a free consultation or visit www.
