Although it already faced a euthanasia order for an earlier attack on a child, a Mansfield dog has struck again and has most likely destroyed any chance that it had for a reprieve from its sentence. According to the police, the canine attacked a 16-year-old girl who was then transported to Rhode Island’s Hasbro Children’s Hospital to be treated for her wounds. The extent of her injuries is unknown.
The dog had previously attacked a boy, biting his face and causing severe injuries that required surgery. As a result of this animal attack, the Mansfield Board of Selectmen had ordered the dog to be euthanized. It is not known where the latest attack occurred, and details about how the dog got access to the girl were unclear.
Owners of the dog, a pointer-basset hound mix, have not responded to questions about their pet’s behavior. While their pet faces euthanasia for attacking a child, they may be liable for damages that their pet caused. An animal control officer has taken custody of the dog.
When a person is attacked by a vicious animal, they are frequently left with serious physical and emotional scars. In addition, animal attacks can leave a victim with permanent disfigurement or physical impairment. A personal injury lawyer may help victims of a dog attack hold those responsible accountable for the animal’s actions. A qualified Massachusetts attorney may help preserve a client’s rights, submit claims for damages and may be able recover compensation for the pain and suffering caused by a traumatic event.
Source: Boston Herald, “Doomed pooch in custody after attack,” Ariel Rodriguez, March 4, 2013