Published: 9/20/2023 3:09:43 PM
Modified: 9/20/2023 3:09:03 PM
NORTHFIELD — After almost two hours of testimony and deliberation on Tuesday, the Selectboard voted to euthanize a canine that reportedly attacked the proprietor’s mom.
“I’m concerned about the … unpredictability and the rapid escalation of the dog’s behavior at not only the present time but going forward,” mentioned Selectboard member Barbara “Bee” Jacque. “I believe the real concern is danger and liability going forward.”
Resident Patricia Kinsella appeared earlier than the Selectboard to recount the occasions that led as much as her son’s canine biting her arm and her chest. The canine, a 4-year-old pit bull/terrier combine named Rio, was in her take care of the weekend whereas her son was in Boston.
According to Kinsella, when she was bending over to open a container of kibble, the canine attacked her and latched onto her left forearm. Although she was capable of pull Rio off her by grabbing his collar, the collar broke and Rio lunged once more. She was finally capable of name 911 and he or she was taken to the hospital.
Regional Animal Control Officer Kyle Dragon mentioned Rio’s character can change rapidly and he has been flagged on the shelter as “dangerous.”
Kinsella’s son, Rafael, mentioned he recalled instructing his mom to not feed the canine or contact his meals. According to Rafael, Rio had by no means attacked another people, nor been aggressive to different dogs.
“He’s a rescue, so he’s really attached to me,” he defined. “Usually, I’m the only one who feeds him.”
After questioning Rafael Kinsella about his relationship with the canine, the canine’s historical past and the extent to which he has proven “food aggression” prior to now, Selectboard Chair Alex Meisner and members Bernard “Bernie” Boudreau, Sarah Kerns and Jacque voted in favor of Rio remaining within the custody of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Regional Dog Shelter to be euthanized. Member Heath Cummings abstained.
“I believe we have enough here to determine a humane euthanization of this animal,” Meisner mentioned. “I believe the facts found are that of a disturbing nature and one where I don’t think there is any reasonable alternative in moving forward in any other direction.”
According to Meisner, Rafael Kinsella has 10 days to enchantment the choice in Greenfield District Court.
Reporter Mary Byrne could be reached at [email protected] or 413-930-4429. Twitter: @MaryEByrne.
