The T&T Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TTSPCA) put out a release on their Facebook page stating that a decision has been made to euthanise Simba after he began to display aggressive behaviour towards his handlers.
The release states:
“The dog Simba, reported to have been responsible for the recent death of a child was brought into the T&TSPCA Shelter by the Chaguanas Corporation on March 10. The Corporation requested informally, that we house the dog for a period of time until funeral arrangements were completed. Simba was housed in the secure Class A section, examined by the shelter veterinarian and by a qualified behaviourist and a trainer. At the time, Simba was found to be "head-shy, showing fear aggression, wary of human contact, cowering and tensing his body when touched. His behaviour is that of a very poorly socialised dog."
On March 21, Simba started to display signs of aggression towards our veterinarian, and to members of staff who had previously worked with and interacted with him. On March 22 his aggression escalated without any indication or provocation, and it was felt that he now posed a threat to the safety of his handlers. We requested help from the trainer to assist us with his unstable behaviour, and to see how best we could manage the change in his temperament. Following this assessment however, a collective decision was taken to euthanise Simba.
While we know that many will feel disappointed by our action, we would like everyone to know it has also been a difficult decision for our team who worked with him daily.
The T&TSPCA believes that this case is not just about one dog, it is also about a lack of public education, poor ownership practices and outdated and inadequate laws to protect animals. We urge the Attorney General to consider amending the Dog Control Act to include Duty of Care protection for all dogs and to initiate the drafting of Animal Welfare laws in general.”