By Cheryl Wierda
MetroValley News Group
Charges were being contemplated this week after a Coquitlam man walking his dog Tuesday morning in Abbotsford reportedly set the animal on a pedestrian he believed was responsible for a break-in.
According to Abbotsford Police, shortly after 9 a.m., a 29-year-old Abbotsford man was walking down Marshall Road when he was confronted by a 27-year-old Coquitlam man walking his dog, believed to be a bull mastiff cross.
Const. Shinder Kirk said the dog owner believed the other man was involved in a break-in that previously occurred at a home in the area. "The suspect also used pepper spray on the victim," Kirk said.
The victim's arm was chomped and bite holes were visible on his right sleeve. He was taken to hospital for treatment.
The suspect was arrested as he walked away from the scene. Criminal charges were being contemplated. The dog was seized by Mainland Municipal Animal Control Services.
When asked what will happen to the animal, supervisor Brian Nelson said, "We haven't made any determination yet. This is very unique. It's not a typical dog going up and biting a person. We found him very friendly with us."
Animal control has started their own investigation to determine if the dog meets the definition of dangerous. If that's the case, it can fine the owner and release the dog after its owner signs an undertaking that the dog will be penned and muzzled, or the dog could be destroyed.