A shocking incident involving a ferocious off-leash Rottweiler attacking a 2-year-old girl in China has led to the arrest of two dog owners, and it is reported to have triggered a wave of actions across several cities to round up and euthanize stray dogs that remain unadopted. This development has ignited an online outcry from concerned residents and prompted officials to advocate for “civilized” pet ownership.
The disturbing incident unfolded as a toddler was hospitalized with multiple dog bites, a fractured rib, and a kidney tear. Security camera footage revealed that the child was walking in a residential compound with her mother when a large black dog launched a vicious attack on her, despite her mother’s heroic efforts to shield her. This heart-wrenching scene was reported by the South China Morning Post.
Quick-thinking bystanders managed to intervene, using a broom and a large stick to separate the attacking dog, as reported by the BBC. The Rottweiler was eventually driven away, sparing the toddler further harm.
Locals were able to identify not only the attacking Rottweiler but also another dog present during the attack, a white Labrador. Both of these dogs’ owners were subsequently arrested, while police investigations into the incident are ongoing, as reported by the Shanghai Daily.
In the aftermath of this traumatic event, Chinese officials have initiated a crackdown on stray, unregistered, and “oversized” dogs. This action has been met with strong criticism on social media platforms, with distressing reports emerging about the inhumane treatment of stray dogs.
Several cities in the provinces of Shandong, Jiangxi, and Hubei have issued statements announcing their intentions to capture and euthanize stray dogs unless they are adopted, as reported by the South China Morning Post. Additionally, some social media users have claimed that security guards in their residential buildings have taken matters into their own hands by disposing of strays and leaving their remains in dumpsters.
These developments have underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to pet ownership, responsible breeding, and animal welfare, while also igniting a passionate debate within the Chinese community about the treatment of both pets and strays. Authorities have emphasized the importance of creating a more humane and orderly environment for pets and their owners, striving to strike a balance between public safety and the welfare of animals.
