Dog owner's upset after beloved pet hit by bus in Doncaster

An upset Doncaster dog owner has accused a bus company of a “lack of compassion” after her beloved pet was injured after being hit by one of the firm’s vehicles.

Five-year-old labradoodle Bonnie suffered a fractured jaw after being hit by a bus operated by First in Rossington in September.

Owner Tracy Hargreaves says the firm has refused to accept liability for the incident and also accused bosses of failing to show compassion over her pet’s recovery.

The incident happened in Powerhouse Lane, Rossington on September 16 when Bonnie was struck by a bus.

In an email sent to Mrs Hargreaves and seen by the Free Press, solicitors on behalf of First described the collision as an “unfortunate incident” and said: “We have now reviewed CCTV footage taken from our client’s bus.

Want more stories like this? Click here to get our daily newsletter

“The bus was initially travelling at around 18mph along a single lane road.

“From the footage you see your dog start running from the grassy area near the fencing as the bus approached.

“The bus driver slows down to 9mph and sounded his horn to warn your dog away.

“They were unable to move further to their right due to the road being single lane. As your dog approached the bus they appeared to slow and stop, so the bus driver continued. The bus driver was unaware that any contact was made and therefore continued with their journey.

“Whilst we are sorry that your dog was injured in this incident, we do not believe that this was due to the negligence of the bus driver. The driver observed your dog suddenly run towards the road and took the appropriate action in slowing down and sounding their horn.”

She said: “My dog ended up with injuries to her face and mouth and she is still recovering.

“It’s just upset me that they or the driver have not shown any compassion or asked further on how her recovery is going.”