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Dog owners urged to train their pets

Pit bulls
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Dog owners are again urged to ensure their pets are properly trained and socialised. This after an Oudtshoorn man was killed by two pit bulls this past weekend.

The 62-year-old father of two, Phillipus Draai, was working in his sister’s garden when he was mauled by the dogs. Both dogs have been euthanised.

The family is in shock.

Cathleen Dido, the deceased’s sister says: “Our hearts are bleeding. We really don’t know what the motive of this thing was and what triggered the dogs. Because we were good friends with those people and the dogs are used to. It’s really a tragic moment for us.”

The dogs allegedly escaped from their enclosure and charged at Draai. The attack went on for 15 minutes before he succumbed to his injuries.

Witnesses say the dogs jumped over a fence before attacking Draai.

Dog experts say several factors could have contributed to the attack. They say it’s important for pit bulls, in particular, to be socialised from a young age.

A dog trainer George Van Huyssteen says: “Pit bulls are not supposed to be chained or use as guard dogs. They must socialise with humans and other dogs from a very young age.”

Police are investigating the incident. Draai will be buried at the weekend.

 

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