Duh. Community Learns Why 'Angry Dog' is Angry

February 24, 2001 Unalaska, AK, USA

"Dog at large" read the police call.  Officers had been aware of this fierce animal for some time: a 7-year-old, black, mid-sized dog who had spent most of his life at the end of a 20-foot chain, guarding a property.  When the chain came loose from its stake, the dog began roaming free.

An officer located the dog and cautiously took it into custody.  Then finally, the rest of the story came out.  

"It is the worst case of its kind I have ever seen," said Dr. Kenneth Hill of the Camai Veterinary Clinic.

"Chubby" the dog had been on that choke chain for so long that the chain itself had become embedded in his neck.  His skin had grown around the chain, and the wound was festering with infection.

Dr. Hill surgically removed the collar last week, and since then Chubby has been a new dog.  "This dog has come so far in such a short time," said police dispatcher Collette Lieberg. "When he first came, he wouldn't make eye contact or look up at you. His head was down all the time. He was suffering. But now look at him — he is such a sweet dog."

Chubby now enjoys chasing a ball around the fire trucks inside the public safety building.  Ms. Lieberg adds, "I don't think he had any toys before.  He didn't know what to do with the first ball I gave him. Now he plays like a puppy."

His former owner Lorraine Swinney pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges last week.  

Swinney was ordered to pay the veterinary bill, court fees and impound and license charges totaling $1,085. She was sentenced to two years of probation.

Authorities are trying to find a good home for Chubby.  City officials may be contacted at these listings.

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