A Port Erin man has been ordered to keep his Lakeland Terrier under control after the dog bit a woman who was shielding her own pet, Isle of Man Today has reported.
The order is a civil measure rather than a punishment for a criminal offence, according to the newspaper.
Prosecuting advocate Annie Bannister told the court the woman had been at an address in Thornhill Close, Port Erin, on 14 June with her dachshund, Teddy. She heard growling behind her and turned to see the terrier, named Dru, coming towards them off the lead.
She lifted Teddy into her arms, but the terrier leapt up and bit her under the right arm, the court heard. Dru carried on jumping, barking and snapping until the woman’s partner managed to restrain him. His owner then collected him.
The woman was left with a bite to her upper right arm, a puncture wound at the elbow and scratches. She was treated at Accident and Emergency, where she received a tetanus injection.
The 50-year-old owner told a civil interview that Dru had got out of his garage because the door had not been properly closed while he was distracted by a phone call. He said the dog was friendly towards people but could be aggressive with other dogs. He said he kept Dru with him every day and usually walked him in the hills, away from people and other dogs.
Duty advocate Ian Kermode said his client would accept the control order and described the escape as a freak accident.
Deputy High Bailiff Ms Braidwood also ordered him to pay £50 in prosecution costs.
