Hound owners fined after their dog attacked a plumber who may never recover from his injuries
A plumber attacked by a Bentleigh East couple’s dangerous dog while working at their home may never fully recover from his injuries, a court has heard.
Inner South
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A plumber attacked by a dangerous dog while working at a customer’s property may never fully recover from his injuries, a court has heard.
The tradie was leaving after finishing up a job at the Bentleigh East house when the Rhodesian ridgeback launched at him, repeatedly biting and firmly clamping its jaws on his arm.
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His injuries were so severe he has had to have ongoing treatment and still doesn’t have the full use of his arm.
Malvern couple Ciara O’Loughlin and Adam Johnathan Jarny were sentenced at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court this morning.
They had each previously pleaded guilty to a causing serious injury charge on January 25
The court heard the plumber had been doing work on the couple’s Bentleigh East property on January 10 last year.
Just as he was leaving the dog growled, ran up to him and latched onto his arm.
He managed to get free but it came at him again, biting him four times.
He kicked the dog and ran to the safety of his ute, before nearly passing out from the pain of his injuries.
O’Loughlin, who was present at the time, administered first aid before paramedics arrived and took him to hospital.
He suffered deep cuts and nerve damage and has only limited movement in his wrist.
His surgeon said he may never fully recover and he can now only do light duties at work.
O’Loughlin said the dog, which they’d had for seven years, had never bitten anyone before or ever acted aggressively in the past.
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In court their defence lawyer said they were deeply remorseful, had continually checked on the plumber’s welfare and repeatedly apologised for the “dreadful situation”.
Magistrate Jade Bott said the attack on the victim was protracted and was committed during his employment.
“In hindsight it must be conceded the attack was preventable,” Ms Bott said.
“(You must) take responsibility for your failings on this occasion.”
The couple was fined a total of $4000 and ordered to pay compensation of $935. The dog was declared as dangerous.
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