As reported by the Costa Contra Times, in Hercules, California, two recent pit bull attacks are prompting for better compliance with dog-restraint rules, greater public vigilance of loose dogs, and possible new city laws that would govern pit bulls and other breeds perceived to be aggressive.
On August 20, a woman was attacked by two loose pit bulls. Her Yorkshire terrier was killed. The woman suffered moderate bites and scratches to her arms according to Hercules police Chief Fred Deltorchio. According to Hercules spokeswoman, Michelle Harrington, the Contra Costa County Department of Animal Services euthanized the two pit bulls after they were deemed dangerous.
On September 6, a dog was injured by three loose pit bulls. According to Hercules police Chief Fred Deltorchio, the three pit bulls were also deemed not suitable for adoption or return to the community and euthanized on September 11.
The Hercules City Council’s Public Safety Subcommitee will meet on September 23 to discuss the attacks and how to prevent similar attacks in the future. The Hercules Municipal Code incorporates the county’s animal ordinance which holds that a dog should be properly restrained at all times. Practically, that means that its owner is in violation of the county ordinance if their dog is in a position to harm a person or another animal.
