Humane Society president weighs in on fate of Onion the dog
-
This Friday, a Clark County judge could decide if the 120-pound dog that killed a Henderson 1-year-old will pay the ultimate price for what some don't consider a crime. Video by ktnv.com
video
Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) -- The New York rescue group that wants to save a dog that killed a Henderson toddler has filed an emergency motion with the Nevada Supreme Court to stop a Clark County judge from deciding if the dog can be killed.
That judge is scheduled to rule this Friday on Onion's fate.
Action News talked with the head of the Humane Society of the United States, Wayne Pacelle, about what could happen to Onion.
""It's too simple to say, 'well it's either the child or the dog,' because a lot of people see it from all angles," Pacelle said.
Pacelle, the author of the bestseller "Our Kinship With Animals, Our Call to Defend Them," says he understands why many want Onion saved, instead of being euthanized.
The Humane Society is holding its national convention this week at the Rio.
His organization focuses on cruelty to animals, but he's also aware of the emotional debate over whether a dog that kills should be punished.
"No one should tolerate the idea of a child being injured by a dog," Pacelle said. "That's an unacceptable outcome, and we need to take steps to make sure that never happens again."
Onion may never kill again if a judge allows a New York-based rescue group to take him to a sanctuary for aggressive dogs.
Pacelle says the debate over his life must include the owner's responsibility.
"Animals are often a blank screen," Pacelle said. "A blank slate and what we do in their lives, dicatates how they behave around us."
A judge will hear two motions from the rescue group that wants to save Onion. The dog is now being held at Henderson Animal Control. The motions are being held in chambers, not in open court.
Action News will have a crew there to report on the outcome.
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.