Thursday, August 11, 2011

Outcry Over Neighborhood Dog Attacks

NORTH CAROLINA -- A pet dog was attacked by a pit bull Sunday, and succumbed to its injuries after it was found stabbed by the pit bull's owner.

"I don't know who killed him," said Wanda Hall, one of the dog's caretakers. "But nobody reports the vicious attacks in this neighborhood."

The mixed shepherd slept on an abandoned porch near Craven Terrace, and was cared for by dozens of people in the New Bern community. Residents say pit bulls are raised in Craven Terrace to attack other dogs, and police are now investigating the pet's death.

"I have seen pit bulls fight here all the time," Hall said. "No one calls these attacks in, but now we've had enough."

Police arrived at the corner of Elm and Crawford Street Sunday during the early morning hours. They found the community's pet dog, Clyde, dead with multiple stab wounds. Neighbors said pit bulls have been trained in the area for nearly a year, and the latest killing was senseless.

"People here are killing pets and friendly dogs for no reason" Hall said. "Clyde didn't bother anyone. He just wanted to be petted and loved. That's how dogs are supposed to be."

Police say people can call the non-emergency number to anonymously report tips.

"If you can provide us with an address or a description of anyone who is training these dogs, that would be extremely helpful," said Jason Sutton of New Bern Animal Control.

(WCTI - August 10, 2011)