NEWCASTLE KZN: Local gynaecologist ‘stable but serious’ after dog attack
His wife, Yvonne thanks the Newcastle community for its love, support and prayers.
Yesterday afternoon, well-known local gynaecologist, Dr Friedrich ‘Burnie’ Burnard was attacked by a dog in Arbor Park.
He was rushed to Mediclinic Newcastle, then transferred by ambulance to a hospital in Durban. Dr Burnard suffered extensive injuries in the dog attack but is said to be in a stable condition.
His wife, Yvonne said she was unable to comment on the incident as it remains under investigation at this stage, but thanked the Newcastle community for its love, support and prayers.
Heather Gero, from the Newcastle SPCA, said the society unfortunately had no mandate to deal with the matter and could only intervene with animal cruelty as defined in the Animal Protection Act.
“If the owners are not there, we cannot enter the property as this will be trespassing, and we cannot remove the dog as it will be considered theft. We may not break any laws as an organisation.”
Mediclinic Newcastle has since issued a statement, confirming that Dr Burnard was attacked by a dog yesterday, adding he was brought to the Emergency Unit for treatment.
The hospital also states Dr Burnard underwent emergency surgery in Durban.
“While we thank the Newcastle and surrounding communities for their concern, we would kindly ask that Dr Burnard and his family’s privacy be respected during this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dr Burnard as he recovers and we invite our community to join us in wishing him well,” reads the statement, issued by General Manger, Japie Greyling and Dr Mahesh Dhanjee, acting Chairperson of the Board of Directors.
Lizzy Arumugam, from the SAPS Newcastle Corporate Communications unit, said she would confirm if a case has been opened regarding the dog’s attack on Dr Burnard.
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