Mr. Nathan Combaluzier, owner of the dog Hank, provided a statement regarding Hank's behavior. He commented on the hospital records, photographs, and statements included in the agenda, offering a summary of the event from his perspective. Additionally, Mr. Combaluzier discussed previous incidents involving the declarant Deanna Combaluzier. He emphasized that Hank is not a dangerous dog.
Councillor Dale requested Mr. Combaluzier to elaborate on the incident from his perspective. Mr. Combaluzier provided further details on his location and the events that transpired.
Councillor Biggerstaff inquired about the whereabouts of those involved during the incident and the events that followed. Mr. Combaluzier clarified that Deanna and the parents had taken Finley to the hospital after the incident.
The declarant was not present for the meeting.
During the public portion of the meeting, Ms. Natasha Vujovic commented on Hank's behavior. She noted discrepancies in some of the statements and clarified that she was the only person who witnessed the incident. Ms. Vujovic also provided insights into the family dynamic surrounding the event.
Councillor Fellini asked bylaw staff if other officers were involved in evaluating the dog. Mike Hutchinson, Municipal Law Enforcement Manager confirmed that it is not a requirement for officers to see the dog before making a decision. He briefly outlined the process for declaring a dog dangerous/aggressive.
Councillor Dale inquired about the time frame for making a decision regarding the declaration of a dangerous dog. Mr. Hutchinson clarified that there is no specific time frame outlined in the bylaw, and the process can take time due to the need for witness statements and the collection of all relevant information.
Councillor Dale also asked Mr. Combaluzier if Hank is placed in a crate to prevent unsafe actions. Mr. Combaluzier confirmed that Hank is crate-trained and always has access to an open crate. He further stated that he has never encountered any aggressive behavior with his animals.
Councillor Dale asked Mr. Combaluzier to clarify who was present during the incident. Mr. Combaluzier confirmed that Ms. Vujovic was the only person in the room at the time of the incident.
Councillor Biggerstaff made additional comments regarding the statements provided and inquired whether bylaw staff follows up on a dog's vaccination status. Mr. Hutchinson responded that bylaw staff is not involved in that process, and York Region Public Health handles such matters.
Councillor Dale requested a motion to allow Mr. Combaluzier and Ms. Vujovic to ask and answer questions together.
Moved by: Councillor Fellini
Seconded by: Councillor Biggerstaff
Carried.
Natasha Vujovic commented on the conversation they had with the Animal Services Officer.
Councillor Dale asks for a motion to have a five minute recess to allow all participants time to gather their thoughts.
Moved By: Councillor Fellini
Seconded by: Councillor Biggerstaff
Carried.
The committee recessed at 7:53 p.m. and resumed at 8:03 p.m.
The committee engaged in a thorough discussion to reach a decision. The committee sought clarification from Mr. Hutchinson on the difference between a "dangerous" and "aggressive" dog and how the order for Hank came about.
Decision:
Moved by: Councillor Fellini
Seconded by: Councillor Biggerstaff
Carried.
The order for the Aggressive/Dangerous dog appeal for Hank #24-4320 be rescinded in its entirety.