MASSACHUSETTS -- One lucky dog has four strikes against him and he's still not out
Despite late allegations of a fourth attack by Cooper, a 100-pound, 3-year-old Labrador mix, selectmen voted unanimously Tuesday night to let the dog live, with severe restrictions.
Owner Quentin B. Brunnett of 8 Patton St. said the dog is young, friendly and over-enthusiastic, but selectmen disagreed, officially declaring Cooper "a dangerous dog" after four reported attacks.
Kathleen "Kelly" Flynn, animal control officer, said the dog bit a neighbor in May 2012, attacked mail carrier Mark Grey in December, and bit Peggy Pavone on the face outside a store in March, when he also bit George Casavant on the arm outside the Veterans of Foreign Wars hall.
Mr. Casavant did not report the attack to Ms. Flynn until Tuesday. Mr. Brunnett said he was present at the VFW, and Mr. Casavant was not bitten. The dog owner also said Cooper no longer goes out unmuzzled and only leaves the house for walks on a short leash or to go to the veterinarian.
Since the hearing on the dog's fate opened on July 9, Mr. Brunnett said, he has rebuilt Cooper's kennel and confined him with additional fencing, as required by selectmen.
To meet another requirement, he said, "I will begin his training within a month."
Selectman Michael Voas said none of the board members wants to order a dog put to death, but "if you come before us again, it will be a sad occasion." Mr. Brunnett said he would not give Cooper another chance before the board. "I will put him down before I come here again."
(Telegram - July 23, 2013)
