Just wondering what the general opinion is on this topic?

Had a situation where a friends kite got mauled by a dog that was not on a lead at a beach that is for everyone but was not a designated dog beach. In this case it was a fellow kite boarders dog that did it so the kite was repaired but I would not be happy if this was my new kite and I am sure many others wouldn't be either.

If a member of the general public who doesn't understand the cost of kite equipment had the same incident what would happen?
Do we just suck it up and accept that accidents happen or would the dog owner have any liability?

I ask as there are other situations in public spaces where if someone's dog damages someone's property the owner is liable so I am keen to hear your opinions cheers!