January 17, 2008

SACRAMENTO – A California man is being called a hero after he came to the aid of a woman and her dog who were being attacked by another canine.

According to witness reports, Joann Golden and her Jack-Russell Terrier-Chihuahua-mix, Cody, were attacked by a neighbor's dog. The pit bull, named Boss, allegedly grabbed Cody's throat. The small dog's owner tried to intervene, but Boss then went after her.

That's when 39-year-old Jeff Madeira stepped in. He had been driving by and saw the attack. He ran from his car and was able to scare the pit bull off, which ran back to its owner's house.

Madeira then drove Golden and her dog home. In the rush to get the dog to the vet, Golden neglected to get the full name of the hero.

A media frenzy about the Good Samaritan followed the incident, and the two parties reunited a few days later. Unfortunately, it was a sad reunion, because Cody died from his injuries.

Mrs. Golden suffered injuries to her hands, but is expected to fully recover.

Sacramento County Animal Control later quarantined Boss. A senior shelter employee said the dog qualifies for a vicious dog case. The dog's owners could opt for him to be euthanized depending on the outcome of such a case.

This story has undoubtedly only added to the stereotype associated with pit bulls. Pet Pulse has learned that in November of 2006, Boss was involved in a similar case that was reported to authorities. Apparently he attacked a dog and bit a person – a situation nearly identical to this one.

According to animal control officials, Boss's family has opted to have him euthanized since this is his second incident. He is slated for euthanasia this Thursday, Jan. 16th.

California law allows dog owners to forego a vicious dog hearing in cases such as this – and that's what Boss's owners have decided to do. If they so chose, they could opt to put him through obedience training. They have apparently decided no to go in that direction.

To contact Sacramento Animal Control concerning Boss's fate, go toacr.saccounty.net

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