The south Edmonton residence where an 11-year-old boy was fatally attacked by two large dogs on Monday had previously been investigated twice this year by Animal Control peace officers for other complaints of dog attacks.
A City of Edmonton spokesperson stated on Tuesday afternoon that in 2024, Animal Control officers had responded to two attack complaints within the private residence. One of the complaints is still under investigation, while the other was concluded without charges.
Over the past year, animal control officers also addressed multiple barking complaints at the same address, resulting in warnings and one ticket, according to the statement.
The Edmonton Police Service responded to a report of a dog attack at a home near 82nd Street and 11th Avenue S.W. around 8 p.m. on Monday, according to a news release.
Upon arrival, officers found a severely injured boy who had been attacked by two large dogs. Despite life-saving attempts by the police until emergency medical services arrived, the child was declared dead at the scene. An autopsy has been scheduled for Wednesday.
The child was visiting a residence in the Summerside neighborhood, and the dogs involved belong to a resident of the home.
Animal Control peace officers seized the dogs, which are currently at the Animal Care and Control Centre.
In April 2023, Edmonton city council increased funding to address animal-related issues and complaints.
“Since then, the city has taken significant steps to address and investigate dog attacks and restricted dogs,” the city said in its statement. “A dedicated Animal Licensing Team comprising five members was formed, which now focuses on public education regarding the importance of licensing, restricted dog licensing, and enforcing compliance with licensing regulations.”
“A key aspect of their work involves monitoring and following up on restricted and dangerous dogs (dogs with dog attack records), categorizing them separately, and implementing measures to prevent future incidents.”
