Owner of Pit Bull Fined Over Attack at Vet Clinic

The owner of a pit bull that bit two vet techs at a Tinley Park clinic was fined $250 for the attack.

Shannon Smith of Furever Rescue was ticketed for the bites during the Feb. 21 encounter. 

A hearings officer determined Wednesday that while she did not allow a dangerous animal to run free in the village, "it's clear that the dog is dangerous," Tribune Reports.

"Buddy" bit one vet tech in the face, and another woman on both arms, and clients present that day stated, "there was blood everywhere" following the attack inside Veterinary Clinic of Tinley Park, 17745 S. Oak Park Ave. Officials decided against fining Smith the full $750, as many have stated the dog had not previously displayed aggression.

The dog was removed from his foster's keeping following the violent encounter. His fate will be determined during a "vicious dog hearing" in Cook County Circuit Court. 

The dog's foster dad has petitioned Tinley Park police and Cook County to save their beloved family member. 

"We love this guy and don't want to lose him" wrote Buddy's foster dad Anthony Concialdi in the petition to "Let Buddy Come Home. "Cook County wants him destroyed. I am willing to accept any restrictions that may be imposed on the condition of his release. I will build whatever fence, post any sign, use a muzzle in public and with all future vet visits. Whatever it takes."

Concialdi has stated that should Buddy be freed, they fully intend to adopt him. 

"Despite all he has been through, he is still happy, polite and listens very well. All he needs is a tennis ball and a few treats and he is happy," Concialdi wrote. 

A hearing date has not yet been set.

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