VECRA - for government authorities
The procedure to follow after a bite incident depends on the nature and circumstances of the incident - see the annex and Box 1.
We are happy to direct private individuals to our guided menu for support requests, so they can find the appropriate assistance.
Establishment of the facts
1. Feeling of insecurity: If only a perceived sense of danger is reported, the police may examine the nature of the concern. If a more in-depth investigation is deemed necessary (for example, in the case of multiple and independent reports), it is advisable to consult a qualified animal behaviour professional.
In this case, VECRA is not directly involved – see the guided menu for support requests.
2. Minor bite incident and first occurrence: The dog must be registered as “disturbing” in the police system. This allows appropriate measures to be taken in case of recurrence.
It is strongly recommended to refer the animal’s guardian to a qualified veterinary behaviourist or clinical animal behaviourist. This professional can carry out a full assessment of the situation, provide a prognosis, and propose a behaviour modification plan to help prevent recurrence.
An additional opinion from the attending vet may also be useful if pain or physical disorders are suspected to be influencing the dog’s behaviour.
It is up to the government officer to decide whether to consult VECRA for additional advice.
3. Minor bite incident with recurrence: Contact VECRA, as the risk of a repeated bite incident becomes more significant. As an government officer, it is your decision whether to simply request an expert opinion or to initiate a full risk assessment.
4. Severe bite incident: A risk assessment should always be carried out in the event of a severe incident. Such an assessment can only be requested by a government authority. For a profound risk assessment, it is essential that the owner offers his full cooperation.
- Based on the initial findings, the government authorities may decide to confiscate the dog in order to ensure safety. However, this is not always the case.
- Safety measures may be imposed if deemed necessary.
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Box 1: ASSESSING THE SEVERITY OF A CANINE BITE INCIDENT |
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Minor bite incident: meets all of the following criteria
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Severe bite incident: meets at least one of the following criteria
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| Recurrence: the dog has previously bitten or has already shown an intention to bite. |
VECRA intervention
1. Free advice for government officers and professionals in the animal sector (veterinarians, behaviourists, etc.) in cases such as:
- questions regarding safety measures
- doubts about whether or not a risk assessment is appropriate, particularly in cases of minor bites and recurrence
To request an advisory consultation, please contact us
The free advice is limited to a phone conversation or brief email exchange. It serves as an initial evaluation of the situation and does not constitute an in-depth behavioural assessment.
Additional costs may arise from VECRA’s advice - for example, if an online consultation or detailed risk assessment is recommended. Any such costs will be clearly communicated in advance by VECRA.
2. Paid services
The preparation of a risk assessment by VECRA is a paid service. Fees are clearly communicated in advance.
We are not in a position to comment on the fees of external professionals you choose yourself (e.g. an animal behaviour specialist).
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