Taiwan Underlines Pet Safety After Dog Attack Incident in Taichung

A man in Taichung and his senior dog, A Cai, were attacked by a suspected mixed-breed pit bull, prompting calls for stricter animal control and owner responsibility.

In Taichung, Taiwan, an incident involving a suspected mixed-breed pit bull has raised concerns about pet safety and owner responsibility. Mr. Wang, a resident of Taichung, was walking his 15-year-old dog, A Cai, on October 18th when they were attacked by an aggressive dog.

According to reports, the larger dog, which appeared to be a mixed-breed pit bull, first attacked A Cai, biting the dog's rear. Mr. Wang intervened, sustaining injuries to his hands and feet in the process. Despite the efforts to separate the dogs, the attacking dog broke free and launched a second attack. The owner of the attacking dog allegedly fled the scene after being identified by witnesses, despite the dog being collared and leashed.

Mr. Wang explained that the incident occurred at the intersection of Lide East Street and Jianzhi Street. He and his dog were preparing to head home when the attack began. The attacking dog was subsequently secured, but it broke free a second time, leading to the injuries sustained by both Mr. Wang and A Cai.

Witnesses at the scene noted the aggressive dog's physical characteristics and behavior, which led them to suspect it was a mixed-breed pit bull. The dog's owner was reportedly seen across the street but fled the scene after being identified by onlookers.

The authorities are investigating the incident. The dog was taken for a microchip scan, but no information was found. The police are reviewing surveillance footage, which, however, did not capture the actual attacks, making it more difficult to identify the owner.

Mr. Wang's son expressed concern, stating that the lack of a microchip and the owner's subsequent flight from the scene posed a significant threat to the safety of other residents and their pets. Mr. Wang, who also adopted A Cai, stated that they are seeking accountability from the dog's owner, but if the owner cannot be found, they cannot press charges against the dog.

The Third Police Precinct is collecting witness testimonies and reviewing surveillance footage to determine if the dog was owned. The authorities have contacted the Animal Protection Office, which will decide the proper course of action, including any applicable penalties for animal abandonment.

The Taichung Animal Protection Office emphasized that the dog has been taken into custody and that the owner could face significant fines if they are found to have abandoned the animal.