Girl awarded €36,500 after Kildare dog attack

A 15-year-old girl, Patrycja Cisowski, has settled a legal case against Kildare County Council for €36,500. The case stemmed from a dog attack that took place in March 2015 when Patrycja was just five years old. Patrycja was reportedly bitten by a Belgian Shepherd dog while visiting a home in Naas, County Kildare, for a play date. She suffered scarring on her thighs as a result of the attack. Kildare County Council denied any responsibility for the incident. Patrycja’s family sued the dog’s owners and the council, claiming they failed to secure the property and control the dog. They argued that the owners were aware of the dog's aggressive behavior and did not take steps to protect others. While the council maintained it had no involvement in the dog's management, it did face a judgment against the dog owners in previous legal proceedings. In court, Patrycja’s father stated that his daughter's scarring remains visible, although there has been some improvement. The High Court has approved the settlement, with the judge noting potential liability issues surrounding the case.