Belgian Dog Owner Faces Nearly €12,000..Penalty After Fatal Lama Attack in Planckendael

A recent case involving dog neglect and dangerous behaviour has raised concerns in Belgium’s animal welfare community. On 2025-05-20 13:19:00, authorities uncovered several dogs living in poor conditions in Planckendael, sparking a legal response. The dogs were found roaming freely but were fortunately not aggressive toward their caretakers.

Investigations revealed the animals were kept in a greenhouse with inadequate food and care. This was not the first incident; six months earlier, the same dogs had been temporarily seized after seriously injuring another dog, which was later euthanised. The owner faced serious charges during the trial.

What consequences did the owner face, and what does this mean for animal welfare standards in Belgium? The court’s decision sheds light on these important questions.

Why did the court take such a firm stance? The judge highlighted the ongoing risk posed by the dogs, which escaped multiple times and endangered other animals. This case prompts reflection on how animal welfare laws are enforced in Belgium and the responsibilities of pet owners.

• Repeated escapes showed a failure to secure the animals properly.
• Poor living conditions violated basic care standards.
• Previous violent incidents increased the perceived danger.
• The lifelong ban signals zero tolerance for neglect and risk.

Will this verdict encourage better care and responsibility among pet owners across Belgium? Authorities and communities must work together to uphold animal welfare and prevent similar incidents in the future.