A beloved family pet in Calgary is on the mend after a terrifying attack that occurred in a city crosswalk earlier this week. The incident, which is now under investigation by municipal bylaw officers, has highlighted concerns over public safety and responsible pet ownership.
A Routine Walk Turns Violent
The victim, Hank, a four-year-old beagle, was on a walk with his owner on Monday afternoon, December 30, 2025. According to details of the event, the pair were using a marked crosswalk when they were suddenly set upon by two larger, unleashed dogs. The attack was unprovoked and left Hank with significant injuries requiring veterinary care.
City Bylaw Launches Formal Probe
In response to the serious nature of the attack, Calgary Community Standards (bylaw services) has opened an investigation. Officers are working to identify the owners of the aggressive dogs and determine the circumstances that led to the assault. The outcome could result in fines or other penalties under the city's Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, which mandates that dogs must be under control at all times, typically on a leash, when off the owner's property.
This bylaw is designed specifically to prevent such dangerous encounters and protect people, pets, and property. The investigation will scrutinize whether the attacking dogs were properly secured and if their owner exercised reasonable care.
Community Reminded of Safety Protocols
This distressing event serves as a critical reminder to all dog owners in Calgary about their legal and ethical responsibilities. Ensuring a dog is leashed in public areas, unless in a designated off-leash park, is fundamental to community safety. Even typically friendly dogs can react unpredictably in stressful situations or around unfamiliar animals.
Animal behaviour experts and city officials consistently advise the following for safe outings:
- Keep your dog on a secure leash no longer than two metres in most public areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings and give other people and pets ample space.
- Ensure your dog is properly trained to respond to basic commands.
- If you see an off-leash dog approaching, calmly create distance and, if possible, place a barrier between the dogs.
Thankfully, Hank is now recovering from his physical wounds. However, the psychological impact on both the dog and his owner can be lasting. The community awaits the findings of the bylaw investigation, hoping for accountability and increased vigilance to prevent similar traumatic incidents in Calgary's neighbourhoods.
