MICHIGAN -- Local law enforcement officials are handling two incidents of pit bull attacks that occurred over the past weekend, one involving livestock and the other involving a 4-year-old boy.
The attack involving the boy took place at about 2:20 p.m. Friday, according to a report from Huron County Sheriff Kelly J. Hanson.
Deputy Ryan Swartz was sent to the Huron Medical Center to investigate a dog bite. He learned the 4-year-old had been visiting family friends at their North Van Dyke, Meade Township address when the dog bit him in the face.
The boy was treated and received several stitches. This dog also was taken to the Thumb Animal Shelter, where it will remain for at least 10 days.
The dog was unlicensed and did not have its shots, according to the police report.
The owner was cited for having an unlicensed dog and other charges may be forthcoming, Hanson stated. This has been turned over to the Huron County Prosecutor’s Office for a final review.
Regarding the incident involving the livestock, Oliver Township resident Joseph Tucker reported to police at about 8:30 a.m. Saturday that a pit bull was attacking his chickens at his Farver Road residence, according to Hanson.
After killing five chickens and seriously injuring another, the pit bull, along with a second pit bull, returned to their nearby home.
Only one pit bull was involved in the attacks.
Swartz contacted the dogs’ 34-yr-old female owner and learned, the owner recently had acquired the pit bull in question.
Swartz had the dog taken to the Thumb Animal Shelter while he seeks charges against the owner.
The dog will remain there until a decision is made by the Huron County Prosecutor’s Office.
Hanson stated he isn’t certain whether the pit bull involved in the attacks was licensed.
The names of the pit bull owners in the two incidents are not being released at this time, pending possible criminal charges.
(Huron Daily - Nov 15, 2011)
