Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Taunton dog euthanized after fatal attack on terrier

MASSACHUSETTS -- The owner of a dog that attacked and killed a much smaller dog Tuesday morning has decided to have her pet euthanized.

Police say the woman opted to have her dog put down following the incident.

The dog, who has already been killed, was described Taunton Animal Control Officer Manny Massa as a Shepherd mix.

Massa said the woman explained that she and her dog were walking together up basement steps at around 11 a.m., when the dog became excited and jumped a fence enclosing the backyard at 93 Hart St.

The animal attacked a Yorkshire Terrier, biting its neck and shaking it, police said.

The Yorkie was taken to Wessels Animal Hospital on Summer Street where it was pronounced dead, Massa said.

He was not able to confirm whether the larger dog had been euthanized at Wessels, which was closed on Wednesday.

The tiny terrier was attacked while being walked on a leash by its owner’s daughter, Massa said.

Massa said he spoke to the respective owners, both of whom he said were visibly upset.

“I don’t wish this upon anybody. It’s just a sad thing,” he said.

Massa said the Shepherd mix was a female. He did not know the Yorkie’s gender.

(Taunton Daily Gazette - Oct 31, 2012)