Rottweiler Attacks Child Under Supervision of Father, Resulting in Child's Sad Demise
In the small village of Escrennes, France, a tragic incident has unfolded, leading to a fatal attack on a nine-year-old boy by a Rottweiler. The incident, reported by "Le Parisien" and "La République du Centre," along with other media outlets, has raised concerns about the ownership and management of potentially dangerous breeds in France.
According to reports, the boy was bitten on the head and neck during the attack and did not survive. The father of the child was out shopping at the time of the incident. A neighbour, hearing the boy's cries for help, intervened and, in an attempt to stop the attack, stabbed the Rottweiler with a knife.
The Rottweiler, weighing approximately 60 kilograms, was still aggressive after being stabbed, prompting the police to use a stun gun to subdue it. Unfortunately, the boy died at the scene.
Initial reports from the father suggest that the dog had never bitten anyone before. However, the investigation will examine whether the father had a permit to keep the Rottweiler, given that the breed is classified as potentially dangerous in France.
Under French law, Rottweilers are classified as Category 2 dogs under the “Loi des chiens dangereux” (Law on Dangerous Dogs). Owners must comply with measures including dog identification via microchip, mandatory liability insurance, presentation of a certificate of aptitude, leashing and muzzling outdoors, and prohibition of access to some public places like playgrounds.
Following serious incidents like fatal attacks, authorities typically enforce stricter controls. This includes possible seizure of the dog, stricter supervision of the owner, and legal penalties if negligence is demonstrated.
In this case, an investigation into charges of manslaughter has been opened. The Rottweiler was later euthanized following the attack.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with owning potentially dangerous breeds. It also highlights the need for strict regulations and enforcement to ensure the safety of the public and the dogs themselves.
[References: 1] Le Parisien. (2023). Fatal Rottweiler Attack in Escrennes, France. [online] Available at: https://www.leparisien.fr/info/france/attaque-de-chien-rottweiler-fatale-en-loiret-03-04-2023-9502685.php
[2] European Commission. (2020). Breed-Specific Legislation. [online] Available at: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12433-Breed-Specific-Legislation-BSL
[3] French Ministry of the Interior. (n.d.). Law on Dangerous Dogs. [online] Available at: https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/Actualites/Actualites-de-la-direction-generale-de-la-politique-interieure/Chiens-dangereux
[4] RSPCA. (n.d.). Breed-Specific Legislation. [online] Available at: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/behaviour/breed-specific-legislation
- The tragic attack on a nine-year-old boy by a Rottweiler in Escrennes, France has raised questions about the ownership and management of potentially dangerous breeds, as incidents like these highlight the need for strict regulations and enforcement.
- Given that Rottweilers are classified as Category 2 dogs under French law, the investigation will scrutinize whether the father, in this case, had a permit to keep the dog, considering it is mandatory for owners to comply with measures including dog identification, mandatory liability insurance, and leashing and muzzling outdoors.
