Overview
- A much larger, unlicensed dog attacked a small service dog on Chestnut Street, leaving the service animal badly hurt and its owner physically injured during the incident.
- Video of the Monday attack circulated on social media and prompted Chelsea Animal Control to seize the larger dog and place it under the mandatory 10-day quarantine required by Massachusetts law.
- Chelsea police reviewed officers’ body-worn camera footage and said their response was lawful, and they plan to release the video once the investigation is complete.
- The service dog, identified as Snoopy Snoop Dog, is expected to need amputation of a front leg and the owner, Liza Henriquez, reports a concussion and the need for rabies treatment.
- City officials are evaluating violations of local leash and licensing rules and may hold a dangerous-dog hearing that can order confinement, muzzling, sterilization, or euthanasia under state law, and the case has focused attention on enforcement and public safety on local streets.