Virgin Gorda Police Officers are asking for assistance from the community in identifying the dogs that attacked and injured a female resident near the Taddy Bay International Airport in Virgin Gorda on New Year’s morning.
A search by officers for the dogs or a possible owner proved futile after the attack that left the victim with several lacerations to her legs. She was treated at the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic and released.
By law, persons are required to register their dogs with the Department of Agriculture. Dogs that are not registered, even within the boundary of premises, are considered stray and can be impounded by the Department. Any dog outside property boundaries, registered or not, must be on a leash and accompanied by its owner. Dog owners that are found in breach of this law can be prosecuted and any dog posing a threat to the public may be terminated.
In its attempt to reduce the numbers, the Department of Agriculture is presently setting traps to capture stray dogs roaming the streets. These dogs are taken to the BVI Humane Society to be evaluated, cared for and put up for adoption. Anyone seen tampering with or releasing animals captured in these traps can be prosecuted.
Persons with information on the owner or the dogs involved the attack near the Virgin Gorda airport, or know the present whereabouts of these dogs are asked to contact the Virgin Gorda Police Station directly at 368-9552.