Father demands self-defense tools for staff after dog attack at Carnikava kindergarten

Following today's incident in Carnikava, where two stray dogs attacked children from the “Riekstiņš” kindergarten during a walk, a parent named Matīss spoke out publicly. Both of his children attend the institution. Six children and a teacher were injured; two children were hospitalized and underwent surgery, while the rest went home after receiving medical care. Four administrative violation proceedings have been opened over the incident, and the Food and Veterinary Service will assess the dogs' future.

Parent criticizes safety rules

Matīss expressed dissatisfaction with the kindergarten's internal safety regulations, pointing out that they provide no self-defense equipment for teachers and caregivers who take children on walks outside the institution's grounds. In his view, staff should be equipped with at least pepper spray or another suitable protective device. He also noted that the nearest police station is located only about 50–70 meters from the site of the incident.

He stressed that parents entrust kindergartens with what matters most to them — their children — and that vague assurances that “everything will be fine” are not enough. Safety measures, he said, need to be real and well thought out, including outside the institution's premises.

Message to dog owners

Matīss also addressed the owners of the stray dogs, urging them to take responsibility for controlling their animals. He said that excuses claiming a dog “doesn't bite” or “just wants to play” become meaningless once an uncontrolled animal has already injured a child.