A Burbank Family Fights to Save Their Dog from Euthanization
Background
An 8-year-old dog named Conan is set to be euthanized after biting a neighbor in what his owners claim was self-defense. The owners, Silvia Franco and her husband Nelson Grande, are fighting the city’s decision and appealing to prove that their pet is not dangerous.
The Incident
The bite occurred in January when Franco and Conan were walking in an alleyway. They were approached by a neighbor, who the family claims has been tormenting their dog for the past year. Franco recalled that the neighbor was "screaming at Conan and screaming at me," prompting the dog to bite her arm in self-defense.
City’s Decision
Since the incident, the neighbor has sued the couple and the city of Burbank for damages. In July, the city deemed Conan as dangerous and ordered him to be euthanized. This decision has devastated the family, with Nelson Grande stating, "When they said that, it’s like giving up your child to go get killed. It hurts your heart."
Expert Opinion
Canine behavior and aggression expert Dr. Jim Crosby agrees with the couple, stating, "I think that the dog was responding to teasing or torturing or provocation and responded in a relatively proportionate manner. I don’t see a dog that needs to be killed."
Law and Possible Defense
According to Burbank law, an animal should not be declared dangerous or vicious if it was protecting a person from an unjustified attack or if there was teasing, tormenting, abusing, or assaulting of the animal. This raises questions about the city’s decision and whether it is fair to condemn Conan without giving the family a chance to prove their case.
Hearing Scheduled
A hearing on the case is scheduled to take place on Friday, with the family hoping for a chance to prove that their beloved pet is not a danger to society.
Conclusion
As the hearing approaches, the fate of Conan hangs in the balance. Will the family be able to convince the court that their dog is not dangerous, or will the city prevail in their decision to euthanize? Only time will tell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Conan, the 8-year-old dog, set to be euthanized?
A: Conan bit a neighbor in what his owners claim was self-defense, but the city has deemed him a danger.
Q: What is the incident in question?
A: Conan bit a neighbor, who had reportedly been tormenting him, in an alleyway in January.
Q: What is the next step for the family?
A: A hearing is scheduled for Friday, where the family will appeal to the court to prove that their dog is not a danger to society.
Q: Why is the family fighting to save Conan?
A: They believe that their dog is not a danger and that the city’s decision to euthanize him is unfair.
