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Animals on the loose

Local officials are concerned about the number of animals on the loose in North Battleford following word of yet another animal attack. The latest incident happened Sept. 29 in the evening, on the 1300 block of 107th Street.

Local officials are concerned about the number of animals on the loose in North Battleford following word of yet another animal attack.

The latest incident happened Sept. 29 in the evening, on the 1300 block of 107th Street.

According to victim and eyewitness statements, an unlicensed Collie cross attacked and bit a 16-year-old girl. The victim was injured but did not require hospitalization. The special constables have been investigating and are considering laying charges.

This was the third attack involving domestic animals on the loose in North Battleford in a week. Earlier there were incidents involving a dog-on-dog attack where a Chihuahua died, and a dog-on-cat attack where an intervening human was injured and required 12 stitches.

In a statement Ashley Plewes, special constable, said it was a concern that all the recent attacks have involved "unlicensed animals, often running at large."

"Licensed animals that have their rabies vaccinations up-to-date and are being registered shows responsibility on the part of the owner. Having a pet is a privilege and the lack of conscientiousness we see in many pet owners is disturbing to us," said Plewes.

Fire Chief Pat MacIsaac said in a statement the situation is a cause for concern.

"This is becoming a real concern for us," he said. "Disregard for bylaws and a lack of common sense is putting animals and people in jeopardy."

According to the City, special constables have been mandated to go door-to-door throughout the city to check for unregistered animals, and any owners found with unregistered dogs and cats and contravening any parts of the Animal Protection Bylaw will be charged.