Rabbitohs Star Jai Arrow Sued Over Alleged Dog Attack Causing PTSD and Euthanasia

South Sydney Rabbitohs player Jai Arrow is facing a lawsuit in the NSW District Court following an alleged dog attack that resulted in severe injuries to a 76-year-old man and the euthanasia of Arrow's dog. The incident, which occurred in July 2022, has left the plaintiff, John Gowans, with lasting physical and psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder.

Key Takeaways

• South Sydney Rabbitohs player Jai Arrow is being sued by John Gowans, 76.
• Gowans alleges Arrow's American Staffordshire terrier, Thor, attacked him and his greyhound, Ruby, in July 2022.
• Ruby had to be euthanised due to her injuries, and Gowans sustained fractures and bites.
• Gowans claims to suffer from PTSD as a result of the attack.
• Arrow's dog, Thor, had previously been declared a dangerous dog after another incident.

The Alleged Attack

John Gowans claims that Arrow's American Staffordshire terrier, named Thor, attacked him and his pet greyhound, Ruby, while they were on a walk near Gowans' home in Bateau Bay. The lawsuit alleges that Ruby sustained injuries so severe she had to be euthanised, while Gowans himself was hospitalised with fractures to his arm and bites on both legs. Arrow was not present during the incident, as he was in Sydney for a State of Origin match.

Legal Proceedings and Past Incidents

The personal injury suit was filed in the NSW District Court on July 10, 2025, just before the three-year statute of limitations expired. Gowans is seeking retribution, stating he suffers from PTSD and has undergone psychological treatment. He has since moved from his home and adopted another greyhound but experiences a phobia of certain dog breeds.

Records indicate that Thor had been declared a dangerous dog by Waverley Council a year prior to the Bateau Bay incident, after an altercation with a miniature schnauzer named Millie. Following that event, Arrow was required to ensure Thor wore a muzzle and a distinctive collar when walked, and was kept in an escape-proof enclosure. Gowans' legal team intends to argue that had these conditions been met, the attack on Gowans and Ruby could have been prevented.

Arrow's Defence and Gowans' Trauma

Arrow's legal representatives have stated that he intends to defend the matter. They also indicated an intention to explore the extent and causation of Gowans' alleged physical and mental injuries, noting that Gowans has reportedly been attacked by other dogs in the past, though he described those incidents as less severe.

Gowans has described the profound impact of the attack, particularly the loss of his dog. He has reported intrusive memories, severe pain, and an inability to participate in regular activities, including playing bowls due to a wrist injury. The lawsuit includes claims for compensation for these physical and psychological damages.

Arrow's Recent Achievements

Despite these legal challenges, Jai Arrow has had a strong season with the Rabbitohs, making 24 appearances and scoring two tries in 2025. He recently received the club's best and fairest award and the "Souths Cares" award.

Sources

• South Sydney Rabbitohs player Jai Arrow sued in NSW Court over dog attack, The Sydney Morning Herald.