City lays charges in dog attack that left pregnant woman injured and her dog dead

The owner of a dog that injured a pregnant woman and her dog, ultimately leading to the animal's death, is facing four charges under two city bylaws.

"The incident, which occurred on Sept. 17, involved two dogs running loose," said a City of Calgary statement on Wednesday. Only one of the loose dogs was found to be responsible for the injuries to the victim's dog.

The dog's owner is now facing four charges with a maximum penalty of $40,000 under the city's bylaws dealing with animals causing death to other animals and animals causing injury to humans, along with two counts of "animal running at large."

"We acknowledge the gravity of the situation and are committed to upholding public safety and responsible pet ownership," said Damian Cole, the city's deputy chief of community safety.

Offending dogs are allowed to remain with their owner with strict conditions, under the Responsible Pet Ownership bylaw. The city added that an application to designate the dog as vicious is now being considered.