Audrey and Bella encountered their Riviera Drive neighbor Felicia Raquipiso and the family dog “Spider” on Saturday, Feb. 12, while walking to nearby Stephen Harris Park. Raquipiso lives with her family and the pit bull directly across from the park.
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| Audry Johnson and Bella |
Audrey told Village Life in an earlier interview that Felicia warned Audrey that Spider, the family’s medium sized, 1-1/2-year-old un-neutered pit bull was loose, and urged her to pick up Bella.
When the loose dog approached Felicia tried to protect Audrey and Bella, but the pit bull was undeterred. He attacked Bella and bit Audrey on the arm.
Both Audrey and Bella recovered from their wounds. Spider was captured and quarantined by an Animal Services officer.
The investigation that followed the attack found two prior complaints about Spider running loose and threatening pedestrians.
In both instances, Spider was back in his yard when Animal Services officers arrived. They nonetheless issued the Raquipisos a warning each time and strongly urged them to keep the dog on property and to repair their fence, according to department spokesperson Kristine Oase. Each time the owner promised to keep inside the house until the hole in the fence was fixed.
As a result of the investigation and the continued aggressive behavior exhibited by the Spider, he was euthanized, Oase said.
Neighbors confirmed that the dog has a history of escapes and aggressive behavior.
The Johnsons declined criminal action against the Raquipisos, but left open the option of a civil claim to cover the doctor and vet bills.
(Village Life - March 11, 2011)
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