MASSACHUSETTS -- Selectmen Monday night agreed to consult town counsel about enforcing a dangerous dog order on Buddy, a bull mastiff owned by Trenton and Heather Bell of 278 Pleasantdale Road.
In February, Buddy attacked and killed a 13-month-old bichon frise named Lily belonging to Richard and Judy Wood of 274 Pleasantdale Road while Lily was tied in their yard. Richard Wood, who has a heart condition, was slightly injured trying to protect his dog during the attack.
In 2011, Buddy also attacked another dog, Mattie, belonging to Anthony Sidoti of Sidoti Lane; Mattie was not seriously injured.
Selectmen voted in March that Buddy, when outside the home, must be constrained on a strong leash by an adult capable of handling a dog over 100 pounds, must be muzzled, must not be allowed to wander loose, must be microchipped and neutered, and must be enrolled in behavioral training.
Animal Control Officer Laura Pease Monday night detailed her efforts during March and April to check on compliance with the orders. She said she has made five visits to the Bells during the month of April, during which no one answered the door, though she twice observed the residents leaving the home. On several occasions she heard Buddy barking inside the house.
The Bells subsequently contacted Rutland police to complain that Ms. Pease was harassing them.
Ms. Pease said the Bells told her in March that they would return the dog to the breeder, but the breeder, when contacted, said he would not accept the dog because of its aggressive behavior.
Ms. Wood said that the Bells had written a letter of apology and offered compensation after the Woods had filed a claim in small claims court in East Brookfield. Ms. Wood said the compensation offered was not enough and they would continue to pursue their claim.
Heather Bell declined to comment when reached by telephone Monday night.
(Telegram - May 1, 2012)
