NEW MEXICO -- A Radium Springs couple is facing charges after their dogs attacked a 72-year-old woman and her Dachshund, deputies said.
According to a report filed with the Dona Ana County Sheriff's Office, Diana and Leith Bishop were walking their two dogs, a German Shepherd and black Labrador Retriever, without a leash on June 8.
The dogs were about 300 yards ahead of the couple's daughter and another girl, who were riding on horseback near Faulkner Canyon in Radium Springs.
The dogs came into contact with a 72-year-old woman and her leashed Dachshund and charged at them, the report said. Although the woman picked up her dog and tried to protect it, the shepherd attacked and ripped the Dachshund's abdomen open, according to the report.
The Dachshund died on June 20 under a veterinarian's care, and the woman suffered bites to her hand and injuries to her elbow and leg, officials said.
The German Shepherd and Labrador were quarantined by Dona Ana County Animal Control for 10 days, and were later released to their owners.
Under law, any breed of dog that is deemed potentially dangerous must have a permit, and in order to receive one, owners must ensure the dog has its current rabies vaccination, microchip and a proper enclosure for the dog. The owner must also show they are able to keep the dog under control at all times.
Doña Ana County Sheriff's deputies have charged the Bishops with violating a state law that requires owners of vicious and/or potentially dangerous dogs to keep their dogs under control at all times.
The owners were charged with violating those requirements, which is a misdemeanor for first-time offenders. However, multiple offenses could be charged as a fourth-degree felony.
