Fatal Accident Inquiry Announced
A fatal accident inquiry (FAI) has been announced following the death of Adam Watts, a 55-year-old kennel owner from Angus who was fatally attacked by an abused dog he was caring for.
The incident occurred in December 2021 at Juniper Kennels and Cattery, located in Kirkton of Auchterhouse. Watts was attacked by a large bulldog-type dog while at his business premises.
Adam Watts, a father of five, was described as someone who gave every dog "every chance he could." He was pronounced dead at the scene following the attack.
Scope of the Inquiry
The upcoming FAI will investigate the circumstances surrounding Watts' death. It is expected to focus on how potentially dangerous dogs are managed in temporary kennels.
Additionally, the inquiry will likely examine the procedures Police Scotland use to share information about dogs' histories and behaviors with kennel operators.
A preliminary hearing for the inquiry is scheduled to take place at Forfar Sheriff Court on 8 June.
Statements from Associates and Authorities
Jayne Dendle, a friend and colleague of Watts from the organization Save Our Seized Dogs, spoke to BBC Scotland News in 2023 about the dog involved. She explained that the dog had been seized from its owner and was placed at the kennel while the owner was involved in a court case.
"Adam never saw the wrong in the dog, he always thought each dog could be turned around.
Tragically, that was the dog that couldn't be turned around."
Debbie Carroll of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) provided a statement regarding the inquiry:
"The death of Adam Watts occurred while in the course of his employment and as such a fatal accident inquiry is mandatory.
Mr Watts' family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress."
