NEW YORK, NY – A recent dog attack on the Upper West Side has reignited calls for stricter animal control laws in the city. Penny, a Chihuahua mix, was brutally attacked by larger dogs on Saturday night, leaving her in intensive care. Despite the severity of the incident, the owners of the attacking dogs may not face significant legal repercussions.
Devon Allen, Penny’s owner, recounted the harrowing event, emphasizing that Penny was on a short leash and did nothing to provoke the attack. The assault, captured on video, shows a woman struggling to restrain the larger dogs as they viciously mauled Penny, who weighs just 16 pounds. In a desperate attempt to save his pet, Allen used a bystander’s cane to pry the dogs away.
The video further reveals the couple walking away from the scene without offering assistance. Penny survived the ordeal but now suffers from serious injuries. Allen shares custody of Penny with his ex-girlfriend, Lauren Klaus, who was not present during the incident.
Klaus, deeply affected by the attack, has initiated an online fundraiser to cover Penny’s medical expenses. She is also advocating for tougher penalties, frustrated by the police’s limited ability to act, as dogs are legally considered property. Her options are limited to pursuing a civil lawsuit or attempting to have the dogs declared dangerous and removed.
City Councilwoman Gale Brewer has taken notice of the situation, noting that this is not the first violent incident involving these dogs. She recounted a previous attack in January that resulted in the death of another dog. Brewer is now pushing for an investigation, highlighting the need for change in how such cases are handled.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of dog owners and the adequacy of current laws in preventing such attacks. Advocates argue that more stringent regulations and enforcement are necessary to ensure public safety and protect vulnerable pets.
As Penny fights for her recovery, her case underscores a growing concern among residents about aggressive dogs and the legal framework surrounding pet ownership. The community’s response may drive legislative action to prevent future tragedies.
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Author: John Nightbridge
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