In the Aktobe region, a tragedy that occurred several years ago has brought an unresolved public issue back to the agenda. A 13-year-old child died from an attack by stray dogs. The boy's father, Otarbek Abshanov, told how the incident happened and raised the issue of responsibility.
In the Aktobe region, a tragedy that occurred several years ago has brought an unresolved public issue back to the agenda. A 13-year-old child died from an attack by stray dogs. The boy's father, Otarbek Abshanov, told how the incident happened and raised the issue of responsibility.
"My son went out to play..."
According to Otarbek Abshanov, the tragic day started as usual. While he was at work, his son went outside to play.
"On the day of the incident, I was at work. My son went out to play. Suddenly, a message came from school via WhatsApp. It turned out they were warning children that a child had been attacked by dogs. At that time, I didn't pay attention...", he says.
However, it soon became clear that the situation was serious.
"Later, the police arrived. They showed us the video. Only then did we understand everything," said the Aktobe resident.
According to the father, the incident occurred in one of the city's microdistricts.
"In the video, there was first one black dog. They say she had recently given birth. Protecting her puppies, she apparently attacked first," he said.
The situation escalated.
"At first, there was one dog, then 3-4 more joined, forming a pack. Then my son could not escape," explained the Aktobe resident.
The tragedy ended in a matter of seconds.
"The dogs gathered and attacked. He sustained severe injuries and died on the spot," he recalled the tragic day.
Otarbek Abshanov says such incidents continue.
"After my son, I have heard of similar situations. A man carrying his child was attacked by dogs. Another attack was on a 7-year-old boy. One girl suffered psychological trauma after being attacked by dogs and stopped talking," shared Otarbek Abshanov.
According to him, this is a systemic problem.
The speaker believes the root of the problem lies in weak control and lack of responsibility.
"I don't know exactly what needs to be done. But human safety must come first. The main value is human life and health," he said.
He also noted the need to tighten requirements for pet owners.
"If someone keeps a dog, they must bear full responsibility. You cannot just adopt and then abandon it without supervision. If it poses a danger to others, that is wrong," said our compatriot.
Situation in Aktobe: Is there any change?
According to Abshanov, the problem of stray dogs in the region has existed for a long time.
"I have long felt this problem. I thought that one day something serious would happen. Dogs roam in packs, but there is no real control," he said.
Regarding the current situation, no fundamental changes are observed.
"I cannot say that the problem is completely solved now. People are still suffering," says our hero.
It is worth noting that Kazakhstan is currently re-discussing the issue of responsible animal treatment. Proposals have been made in the Mazhilis to regulate stray dogs, including temporary isolation of homeless animals and, if necessary, the use of euthanasia.
Photo: Freepik
