Young boy attacked by a Jack Russell dog awarded €20,000

The boy and his parents attended Letterkenny Circuit Court on Tuesday where the ruling was heard by Judge John Aylmer.

The court heard that the boy was eight years old at the time of the incident, and he was now 13.

The boy was out cycling with friends on June 29, 2018 when he was attacked by the dog.

The boy suffered bite marks on his arm and scratches on his back.

He was taken to the GP and was treated for soft tissue injuries but there was no scarring and his tetanus injections were up to date.

Barrister, Mr Sean McGee, said the boy had suffered psychological issues as a result of the attack.

The court heard the young boy became very anxious about going outdoors in case there would be dogs, he avoided walking home and avoided dogs.

The boy’s relationship with his two dogs at home also suffered and he developed a phobia of a dogs which led to nausea and vomiting.

Counselling had been recommended for the boy but had not been taken up.

Mr McGee added that having met with the parents, he said the offer of €20,000 was fair enough.

He added that the boy and his parents are anxious to put the incident behind them.

Judge John Aylmer said the offer was reasonable and he acknowledged the family’s desire to put the incident behind them.

He approved the offer of €20,000 and added that Mr McGee was entitled to court costs.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - April 24th