Understanding animal-related injuries
Livestock, cattle, horses and dogs can cause serious injuries if the animals owner doesn’t take proper steps and precautions to safely protect the public – for instance, dogs that show aggression should be on a lead and livestock properly contained.
The Animal Act 1971 requires owners and those responsible for animals to ensure measures are taken to prevent them causing harm to people, other animals and property.
Some examples of animal related injuries include
- Dog bites
- Bites and kicks from livestock or horses
- Accidents at riding centres
- Trampling from animals in a field
- Loose or poorly controlled animals causing a road traffic accident
- Accidents at farms or stables, including injuries to employees
- Accidents in zoos and wildlife parks
Being attacked by an animal can be a painful and frightening experience, and in serious cases with large animals can even be fatal.
