Death of kennel owner killed in dog attack at work to be investigated

The death of a kennel owner who died after being attacked by a dog is to be investigated.

Adam Watts was the owner and operator of Juniper Kennels and Cattery in Angus when he was attacked on December 22, 2021.

A Fatal Accident Inquiry is to be held into the death and is expected to focus on the management of potentially dangerous dogs in temporary kennels and how Police Scotland shares dogs’ histories and behaviours with kennel operators.

A fundraising page set up after the 55-year-old’s death raised £59,000 for his five sons, who had previously lost their mother in 2013.

Save Our Siezed Dogs and Salt’s Helping Hounds Rescue said Mr Watts had died while “working with the dogs he loved and was so passionate about”.

A Fatal Accident Inquiry is to be held into the 55-year-old’s death, with a preliminary hearing set for June 8 at Forfar Sheriff Court.

The inquiry will look to determine the circumstances of the death and establish whether any precautions could have been taken and could be implemented in future to minimise deaths in similar circumstances.

Debbie Carroll of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scotland’s death investigation authority, said:  “The death of Adam Watts occurred while in the course of his employment and as such a Fatal Accident Inquiry is mandatory.         

“The lodging of the First Notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.         

 “Mr Watts’ family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.” 