People Rallying To Save Freetown Dog On Death Row
LAKEVILLE (CBS) - Time is running out for people trying to save a local dog from being put to death. This time, it's a golden retriever named "Skippy."
The dog nipped his owner's granddaughter, and Freetown officials have ordered him put down.
Skippy has become a Facebook phenomenon, as the dog is looking for a second chance.
WBZ-TV's Beth Germano reports.
"We have garnered so much support. People are outraged about this," said Ruth Marshman, who started the site.
More than 1,400 Facebook entries of support have been made on a site started by Marshman and CARE, a New Bedford shelter that helps troubled animals.
"Animals oftentimes get a bad rap without getting another chance, and so if I can help one of them, I'd like to," said Marshman.
Skippy's saga began last fall when he was accused of twice attacking the one-year-old granddaughter of his owner. The Freetown Board of Selectmen said it had no choice but to order Skippy be euthanized.
"There was a situation where a young child was injured twice, one requiring 12 stitches on her face," said Jean Fox, a Freetown selectwoman.
"We're trying to just save him from being killed," said Cassandra Locke, the dog owner's daughter.
The little girl's mother said the family is appealing the decision, but back at CARE they are ready to evaluate the dog, neuter Skippy to stop his aggression, and even pay the town's bills at the Lakeville Animal Shelter where Skippy awaits his fate.
With a tsunami of support from the Internet, the selectmen might be persuaded.
The dog's owner has until this week to file an appeal, and then it can be heard by a judge.
