When a dog in Durham attacks a human, another dog or even some chickens, the county steps in. A sheriff’s deputy investigates and determines if the dog is dangerous or “potentially dangerous.”
The county requires the dog be muzzled and mandates a warning sign outside its residence. At that point, the owner can take the case to the Dangerous Dog Appeal Board. Think of it as dog court.
Jacqueline Cole, a reporter for The 9th Street Journal, examined some recent cases and talked with the people involved. Her story provides a glimpse inside a little-known county board.
Photo above: Stormi, who died on her 1st birthday after being attacked by Savvi-Blue. After Savvi-Blue was determined to be “potentially dangerous,” the owner appealed to dog court. Photo courtesy of Jazmine Bunch.