A teenager was injured and her dog killed on Tuesday, July 21, 2009, when both were attacked by two pit bulls near Grand Rapids, Michigan.
According to deputies with the Ottawa County Sheriff's Department, Asley Muir, 18, was out for a walk with her pet dachshund, Peanutt, along South Cedar Drive in Allendale Township. As she passed between Bass Road and River Road, around 1:25 p.m., Ms. Muir was approached by two American pit bull terriers.
The dogs set upon Ms. Muir, going after Peanutt. The dog was wrenched from her arms and fatally attacked, injuring her in the process.
Ms. Muir reportedly received treatment at the scene for bite wounds. Animal control officers in Ottawa County ordered the pit bulls, Diesel and Riddick, to be quarantined.
They reportedly belong to a nearby resident, Craig Lick, 24. Mr Lick, who was at work at the time, has a metallic fence around his property, along with an electronic barrier.
His pit bulls eacaped through a window fitted with an air conditioning unit. Pet owners have a responsibility to keep their animals under control at all times in the interest of public safety.
An estimated 885,000 dog-bite victims require medical attention each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Pedestrians, especially children, have the right to walk in public spaces, including along roadway, without fear of attack. In most caes, pet owners can be held liable if their animals should attack an innocent bystander.
Pit bulls have an especially nasty reputation among many. According to Dogs Bite (www.dogsbite.org), 33 fatal dog attacks occurred in the United States in 2010. Pit bulls reportedly accounted for 67 percent of these attacks.
Victims of serious animal attacks should seek prompt medical attention. Once properly diagnosed, they might consider legal action if the incident involves negligence.
Injured parties might seek reimbursement for medical expenses, recovery of lost wages when work is missed and even compensation for pain and suffering, past and present.
Don't accept as gospel the advice of friends and family. Put your trust in a qualified lawyer.
UPDATE: In August 2009, a judge ruled that Riddick will be euthanized. It is unclear whether Ms. Muir will take civil legal action against Mr. Lick.
If you've been injured by a dog, such as a pit bull, find out what your case is worth by contacting the Michigan dog bite attorneys at Keller & Keller.
