Jeremy Aguilar, a disabled veteran who served in both Afghanistan and Iraq, and Heather Aguilar may have to turn over their beloved service dog Dutch to authorities for execution. The four year old American Allaunt’s sentencing is scheduled for this Thursday, February 14, 2013 (Valentine’s Day).
In a complaint filed by Dutch’s former owner (whose name has not been given), the dog bit her to the bone in the thigh, buttock and finger on November 14, 2012. She admits that she beat Dutch but only because he was attacking her dog and was bitten afterwards when trying to clean Dutch’s wounds. However, another report of the incident does not mention Dutch attacking another dog. Instead, the former owner admits that she was bit after beating Dutch.
Adding more suspicion to this case is the fact that the former owner did not call the police or 911 after the attack. Photographs of the injuries showed no breaking of the skin and stitches were not required. The veterinarian report evaluating Dutch’s injuries states:
"Face swollen like he was hit. Extensive ST trauma on left side of face. Swelling extends from nose up to eye and base of ear. Some dried blood noted on dog's fur but no wounds apparent in mouth or on face/body."
"Note - dog was extremely well-mannered and sweet in exam room. He did not require restraint during his exam, even when his abdomen, testicles and swollen face were palpated."
Also, highly recognized dog trainer Carrie Williams has offered the following statement:
"In my testing of dogs for TDI and the AKC and as a dog obedience instructor, I have dealt with a number of aggressive dogs. Dutch was not one of those dogs. Dutch is a sweetheart. In 26 years of training dogs, he is one of the nicest dogs I've ever come across. That is why I'm volunteering my time to try and save his life."
In addition, after this alleged incident, Dutch went through a training course to become a certified service dog. He also passed the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen test.
Despite the conflicting evidence, the City of Montrose, Colorado still decided to prosecute the case under Ordinance 6-2-9 (A), Vicious Animals. If found guilty, Dutch will be killed and Mr. Aguilar could face up to one year in jail and be fined $1000.00.
We can help end the injustice that seems to be siding against Dutch by signing and sharing an on-line petition offered on the Care2 petition site. Unfortunately time is of the essence so please act now. Together, we can help save Dutch’s life.
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