An Allens Rivulet couple who were tragically attacked by their pet dog, resulting in the death of the husband and serious injuries to the wife, have now been identified.
Noel Backhouse, aged 66, and Karen ‘Maree’ Anderson, aged 64, were passionate dog lovers who owned multiple dogs, including the dog involved in the attack.
Police and emergency services were called to their home around 10:40pm on Sunday by a concerned neighbour who had heard the commotion.
Mr Backhouse died at the scene after suffering critical injuries to his lower legs, while Ms Anderson was rushed to the Royal Hobart Hospital with similarly serious leg injuries.
The dog, which was unregistered, was euthanised at the scene by animal control officers upon the request of the police.
While dog’s breed was not officially disclosed by authorities after the incident, a Kingborough Council spokesperson has since said that it appeared to be of the Rottweiler breed.
“As the dog was not registered with Kingborough Council, staff are unable to confirm the breed of dog involved in the incident,” a spokesperson said.
“[However] the dog appeared to be [a] type of, or similar to, a rottweiler breed.”
The couple are believed to have regularly attended dog shows and were strong advocates for animal welfare, with the Rottweiler involved in the attack having previously received awards at a Rottweiler Club show.
The couple’s other dogs, a German Shepherd and a French Bulldog, were seized by the council during the investigation.
Police are continuing to investigate the attack and will prepare a report for the coroner.
