A North York man has pleaded guilty to three charges under the Dog Owners Liability Act, after his unrestrained German Shepherd attacked three people outside a convenience store while he was shopping inside.
Vitalie Mazur, 41, pleaded guilty to three counts of Fail to Take Precaution to Prevent Dog From Attacking. He was ordered to pay a $500 fine.
The three attacks occurred on Jan. 19, when Mazur went into a convenience store and left his 100-pound German Shepherd outside, without tying him up.
While Mazur was inside, the dog attacked a 16-year-old girl who was walking nearby. She required medical attention after the dog bit her shoulder.
A few minutes later, the dog attacked a 66-year-old man who was trying to walk into the store. The dog leapt at the man and bit his neck and arm, police say. He suffered serious bite injuries and needed 20 stitches.
Only five minutes later, the dog went after a 41-year-old woman who was trying to get inside the store. The woman managed to fend off the animal and was not seriously injured.
The dog was put down by Toronto Animal Services on Jan. 31, at the request of the owner.
York Regional Police reminds residents not to approach any dog that is not restrained.
If possible, avoid the area where the dog is or try to keep a barrier between you and the dog like a vehicle, fence, door or clothing. Avoid looking the dog right in the eyes and avoid running away. You are better to stay still and try to back away slowly.
