Dog bite case ends with dog put down

By Mary Zielinski
Posted 6/27/19

Although a detailed agreement was negotiated between Kim, Brian and Tanner Coleman and the county Board of Health, the owners had the German shepherd, Alpine, “put down” June 19. The decision by …

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Dog bite case ends with dog put down

Posted

Although a detailed agreement was negotiated between Kim, Brian and Tanner Coleman and the county Board of Health, the owners had the German shepherd, Alpine, “put down” June 19. 

The decision by the Colemans concluded the case that began early this year involving the county ordinance regarding a “vicious dog.” The animal reportedly had bitten two people: a deliveryman and a utility worker who came to the property at 2667 Wayland Road.

The agreement between the Board of Health and the Colemans, that would have allowed the family to keep the dog, was finalized at a special board meeting May 30 and was to be signed by both parties within 30 days.

Among other requirements regarding control and confinement of the animal, was posting of a $1,000 security bond. It was required proof of financial responsibility for any injury or damage caused by the dog.  

The dog also received current rabies vaccination and was neutered prior to the final agreement. The key provision was the owners having a comprehensive insurance on the dog, violation of which could have  subjected the owners to civil and/or criminal penalties.

No reason for the owners decision change was given during the board meeting June 20.

In other business, the board:

• Received the annual presentation about the countywide I-Smile dental program that successfully served, this year, 330 children in the county.  There was also work done in the schools in the county.

• Approved revisions to the department employee handbook to make it as close as possible to the main county handbook, allowing for variation for departmental differences and possible emergencies, including handling overtime and compensatory time.

• Received an update regarding Gov. Kim Reynolds’  just announced Medicaid modernization, a key aspect of which is to have prior authorization for virtually any medical procedure which is expected to lead to more paperwork, longer waits for appointments and other delays. The changes are to go into effect within 60 days. Informational letters were sent to Medicaid recipients.

• Received the May report from Environmental Health that, among other items, showed issuance of 27 new and renewed restaurant licenses and inspection of four public swimming pools, including two in Ottumwa.