Dog violently attacked in northwest Calgary leaves pet owners with massive vet bill

GRAPHIC WARNING: This story contains graphic photos that may be disturbing to some. Discretion advised.

A Schnauzer Chihuahua cross is nursing some severe injuries after its owners say it was attacked by another dog in Calgary.

Its owners say a large dog lunged at their pet and started biting and scratching him.

Beth and Reg Lambert were out walking Otis near their home when it happened without warning.

“Next thing I knew this animal came running in front of me and it was on Otis,” Beth recalled. “All hell broke loose and Otis was screaming and I was trying to kick it away and it came right back.”

“It was a nightmare but it was like seconds.”

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Otis suffered severe lacerations and bruises. He needed stitches and a handful of emergency surgeries to repair his wounds. The owners were left with a vet bill of $12,000.

“We said, ‘save his life please — just save his life’ and we will deal with everything else later,” Beth said.

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The Lamberts want the alleged offending dog owner to help pay for the bills and face charges.

“Why would you have a dog that big and that strong and that aggressive and not understand the possibilities?” Beth asked.  “That’s the law and you’re not better than that… Why are you above the law?”

The attacked happened two weeks ago. On Friday, a Calgary bylaw officer made contact with the dog owner and said he’s being cooperative.

The investigation is still ongoing but it’s likely charges will be laid.

The Lamberts said the owner has contacted them and has said he is willing to help pay the vet bills.