A hiker on the Shamao Mountain Trail in Yangmingshan, Beitou, was bitten by a stray mastiff this morning but fortunately did not sustain life-threatening injuries. The Taipei City Animal Protection Office will penalize the owner in accordance with the law.
A 56-year-old male hiker was climbing the Shamao Mountain Trail around 11 a.m. when a mastiff suddenly appeared and attacked him, causing a laceration on his left calf. Fortunately, after being treated by medical personnel, the man was unharmed.
The Animal Protection Office investigated and found that the mastiff was owned by a local resident surnamed Tsai, approximately one year old. It had escaped from home yesterday after being startled by nearby fireworks. Officers from the Animal Protection Office, fire and police departments, and the owner conducted a thorough search of the mountain to locate the dog. At 12:20 p.m. that day, the mastiff was spotted.
When the mastiff saw the large group of people approaching, it became agitated, growling angrily and even attempting to attack the rescue team from the Animal Protection Office. The atmosphere at the scene was tense, and relevant personnel had tranquilizer darts ready. Fortunately, after continuous reassurance from the owner, the mastiff’s rage was eventually calmed, and it was securely leashed to prevent further escape or injury.
Yan Yi-feng, director of the Taipei City Animal Protection Office, stated that since mastiffs are classified as aggressive pets by the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, the owner has violated Article 20, Paragraph 2 of the Animal Protection Act. A fine ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$150,000 will be imposed in accordance with the law. He reminded the public that if keeping large, aggressive dogs, proper protective measures must be taken, and laws must not be violated to avoid injuring others. 1051231
(CNA)