Sweet Pit Bull Turns Tragic: New Owner Mauled
A tragic incident involving a gray pit bull named Valerio has raised serious concerns about the safety protocols in animal shelters. Valerio, adopted on August 8, 2022, from a city animal shelter in South Los Angeles, attacked his new owner, Kristin Wright, just two days later. The attack left Wright with severe injuries, including a broken right arm and significant skin damage to her left arm.
Background of Valerio’s History
Before his adoption, Valerio had a documented history of aggression. He had been surrendered to the shelter on April 27, 2021, after he bit his previous owner’s elderly mother in the face. The attack was severe enough to require medical attention, with the victim suffering considerable injuries.
Legal Consequences and Settlement
- Kristin Wright and her husband filed a lawsuit against the city after the attack.
- In November, they reached a settlement of $3.25 million due to the incident.
- Wright reported ongoing physical issues, including nerve damage that hampers her ability to work as an accountant.
Questions Raised About Shelter Policies
This case has sparked discussions regarding the transparency of animal shelters, particularly concerning the bite histories of dogs available for adoption. Although shelter state laws mandate that such histories be disclosed in writing, reports indicate that the disclosure in Wright’s case failed to meet these legal requirements.
Volunteers and Adoption Process
Prior to adopting Valerio, Wright was informed by volunteers that he was a sweet dog who just required love and care. However, crucial details about his previous aggression were either downplayed or omitted entirely. The volunteers described Valerio as gentle and calm, noting a previous bite but dismissing it as a minor issue.
Changes Implemented by L.A. Animal Services
In light of this incident, L.A. Animal Services has implemented new policies. As of November 2022, a formal disclosure policy was established that mandates staff to check a dog’s bite history prior to finalizing any adoption. This change aims to enhance public safety and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Repercussions for Valerio
Tragically, Valerio was euthanized shortly after the attack on Wright. This decision followed discussions with city officials while Wright was still hospitalized. The severity of his aggression, categorized as “level 4” on a professional dog aggression scale, indicated a considerable danger to the public.
Conclusion
The case of Valerio stands as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding shelter adoptions and the critical need for accurate and comprehensive disclosures. As communities face more incidents involving shelter dogs, the responsibility falls on both shelters and adopters to ensure public safety and best practices in animal welfare.
