The ruling comes after a hearing last week to determine the fate of the dog, Monty, which remains at OCAS headquarters. The animal will not be put down.
The "dangerous" distinction means the dog has to be kept in a secure residence with posted warnings, and kept muzzled and leashed whenever it's outdoors.
The county also requires dangerous dogs to be sterilized and its owners to register each year, with a $515 annual fee applied, in addition to impound fees.
Parents David and Alicia Lienhart argued the dog should be euthanized for biting their daughter, Erica, in the face when she tried to pet it at the park on Nov. 4.
The bite, David Lienhart argued, met the statutory standard for euthanasia, which includes "disfiguring lacerations or injuries requiring sutures or reconstructive surgery."
Dog owner Joe Marchica, however, said the dog bit because it was startled by the girl. He said euthanasia was not necessary to prevent future bites.
He also downplayed a previous report of bite by a neighbor, who he says exaggerated the incident.
Several of Marchica's neighbors gave statements about the dog; some described Monty as dangerous or aggressive, others, as pleasant or, at least, controllable.
Marchica said he may appeal the "dangerous" ruling, but is still considering all of his options. He said he could also choose to give the dog back to its breeder.
(Orlando Sentinel - December 09, 2011)
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