Inquiry to examine fatal dog attack on kennel owner

A fatal accident inquiry (FAI) has been announced into the death of an Angus kennel owner who was killed by an abused dog he was looking after.

Adam Watts, 55, was attacked by the large bulldog-type dog at his business, Juniper Kennels and Cattery in Kirkton of Auchterhouse, in December 2021.

The father-of-five, who was described as giving a dog "every chance he could", was pronounced dead at the scene.

The FAI will examine the circumstances of his death, and is likely to focus on the management of potentially dangerous dogs in temporary kennels.

The inquiry is also expected to look at how Police Scotland share dogs' histories and behaviours with kennel operators.

A preliminary hearing is set to be held at Forfar Sheriff Court on 8 June.

Watts' friend and colleague Jayne Dendle from Save Our Seized Dogs told BBC Scotland News in 2023 that the dog had been seized from its owner and placed at the kennel while he was involved in a court case.

She said: "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) said: "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."