Chincoteague; More Dog Attacks

Recent dog attacks claimed serious attention of Chincoteague Town Council Monday.

Chincoteague Police Chief Eddie Lewis reported that 22 animal complaints were made in June. Another dog attack occurred, he said, adding this time it was on Ridge Road and the victim had to get 48 stitches.

Last month, Supervisor Wanda Thornton complained that a dog attacked her granddaughter. She recommended the town get a holding facility that would be used until county Animal Control workers could pick up the canines.

Councilman Terry Howard said in the more recent incident, the victim, a woman who was not identified, did not see a dog on a chain and apparently walked within the animal’s reach when she went visiting. Said Howard, “He got a hold of her. It was pretty bad.”

Lewis said the dog was picked up by Animal Control and a citation was issued to its owner.
Said Councilman Jim Frese, “We as a town have to do something about it.”

Town officials said it would be costly to hold animals over the weekend when county Animal Control is not working. Lewis said the town would need to hire someone to take care of them. The town Police Department doesn’t have the equipment, a vehicle or a proper cage, he added.

Councilman John Howard said, “Somewhere there has to be a law that Accomack has to help us. Why are we in Accomack County? We might as well be Chincoteague, period. …Send a letter to the Board of Supervisors.”

Mayor John H. Tarr asked Town Manager Robert Ritter to gather information (including costs and the state ordinance) and any recommendations for council to consider at its next meeting.

Remarked Councilman Terry Howard, “Better to act than react. It’s expensive but it’s worth it.”