Banker Wins £10,000 Payout After Dog's Injury at Anxiety Therapy Course
A senior banker has been awarded £10,000 after his Jack Russell terrier broke its leg during a pet therapy course. The incident led to significant vet bills and emotional distress for the dog and its owners.
Yigit Onkan Sazak, a vice-president at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, and his wife Belma Sazak have been awarded £10,583 in compensation after their Jack Russell terrier, Sirius, suffered a leg fracture during a pet therapy course. The incident occurred in October 2023 at Four Paws Walking and Training Ltd, near Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk.
The Sazaks had enrolled Sirius in a £2,500 course aimed at addressing the dog's anxiety and reactivity issues. Jack Russell terriers, originally bred for fox hunting in 19th century England, are known for their high energy and intelligence, often requiring extensive exercise and mental stimulation.
During the course, Sirius sustained a serious spiral fracture to one of his hind legs, resulting in veterinary bills totaling £7,200. The injury necessitated the insertion of a metal plate and nine screws into the dog's leg, followed by a period of immobility and intensive post-surgery care.
Belma Sazak reported that Sirius experienced heightened anxiety and required "depression medication" during his recovery. This emotional distress is not uncommon in Jack Russells, a breed known for its "big dog" personality in a small body and strong prey drive.
The Sazaks initiated legal proceedings against Four Paws to recoup the veterinary expenses and the course fee. In a customer review, Mrs. Sazak described the experience as a "complete nightmare" that caused significant emotional stress and financial hardship for the family.
Four Paws, which specializes in "bespoke dog training" and offers intensive training sessions for various canine behavioral issues, did not attend the court hearing. In an online response to the Sazaks' review, the company stated they had promptly informed the owners of the "unfortunate accident" and offered to cover the medical costs.
District Judge Edwin Omoregie of the Central London County Court ruled in favor of the Sazaks, awarding them £10,583. However, he noted that Four Paws could potentially apply to "set aside" the order, as they were not present to present their side of the dispute.
This case highlights the potential risks associated with intensive training programs for dogs, even when aimed at addressing behavioral issues. Jack Russell terriers, while generally healthy, can be prone to certain genetic health issues and require careful handling during training and exercise.
As the breed continues to gain popularity, featured in various movies and TV shows due to their trainability, it's crucial for owners to understand the unique needs and characteristics of these energetic and intelligent dogs. Whether participating in agility competitions or serving as working dogs on farms, Jack Russells require a balance of physical activity and mental stimulation to thrive.
