Pit Bull quarantined after attacking
Grand Chute boy

By Jim Collar Post-Crescent Staff Writer
December 3, 2008
Post Central.com

GRAND CHUTE — A pit bull terrier remains quarantined as police investigate a Thanksgiving Day attack by the dog on a 16-year-old boy.

Authorities say the bite occurred at a home in the 5800 block of W. Wisconsin Avenue at about 7:30 p.m. Police said the dog is under a 10-day quarantine at the home. The teen is recovering from facial injuries, though police couldn't say how serious his injuries are.

It's the second time police were called about the dog biting someone. In October, the dog broke free from its chain and bit at a jogger, Lt. Jerome Martin said.

Shannon Vance-Moede of Greenville, mother of the teen, said her son was at a friend's home watching movies when the attack occurred. She said he required 30 stitches to his face to repair injuries that included a torn lip and a split nostril. Doctors also used adhesives to limit the amount of stitching.

She was angered that the dog was quarantined rather than seized, particularly after the animal already had bitten a person.

"It's just a matter that this should have never happened, and there shouldn't be a second chance," she said.

The owner of the dog couldn't be reached for comment Tuesday. The Post-Crescent isn't identifying the owner because no charges have been filed or citations issued.

Martin said state law allows for police to seize an animal that attacks two or more times in an unprovoked manner in a public setting.

These circumstances are complicated because the attack occurred in a private home, though Grand Chute ordinance prohibits residents from harboring vicious animals.

Martin said the ordinance is subjective, though the town attorney advised Tuesday that police have the authority to both fine its owner and seek a court order to seize the dog depending on the outcome of the investigation.

"We're working through those issues," Martin said.

Vance-Moede said her son was on the couch with the dog. A friend left the room and the dog attacked his face.

Vance-Moede said she would like the dog removed from the home, though for now her son's recovery is her top concern.

"I'm speechless," Vance-Moede said. "I'm still in shock, but the first thing is to make sure my son's OK and to get him healthy."