Loose Dog Puts Disabled Child at Risk

A family is raising concerns about a neighbor’s dog after they say repeated encounters with the animal have left them worried about the safety of children who live nearby. Lawrence County Deputies responded to a Scotttown residence following a complaint about a dog repeatedly being loose and entering neighboring properties. The complainant told deputies she had encountered the black and brown dog several times, including an incident in June when she said the dog growled at her while she was in her driveway. She said the dog has continued to appear on neighboring properties on multiple occasions, creating concern about what could happen if another encounter occurs. The woman told deputies she previously contacted the dog’s owner through Facebook to express concerns about the animal running loose and acting aggressively. Her biggest concern, she said, involved her grandchildren who live nearby. She told deputies that one of her grandchildren is a 7-year-old child with cerebral palsy who sometimes plays in an open garage area. She said the child would not be able to quickly move away if a dog attack occurred. The complainant provided deputies with a written statement and security camera footage showing the dog on the property on multiple dates. Deputies also confirmed that another deputy had previously spoken with the dog owner in June and warned her to keep the animals restrained and on her property. Due to other calls requiring attention, deputies were unable to make additional contact with the dog owner during this response. The report was forwarded to the Lawrence County Dog Warden for follow-up. Dog Safety: When a Loose Animal Becomes a Community Concern Officials remind dog owners that keeping pets properly contained is not just about preventing complaints—it is about protecting neighbors, children, and the animal itself. A dog that repeatedly leaves its property can create dangerous situations, especially around: Young children Elderly residents People with mobility limitations Other pets Traffic Experts recommend owners: Keep dogs in secure fencing or on a leash Address aggressive behavior early Avoid allowing dogs to roam neighborhoods Take complaints from neighbors seriously before an incident occurs A dog does not have to bite someone before a situation becomes dangerous. Repeated roaming, threatening behavior, or a lack of control can be warning signs that need attention.

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