New York resident found dead in home, mauled by pit bull

Pit bulls have been considered one of the most dangerous breeds of dogs, and those who own them – or any other animal that could act violently – are taking a risk. Owners may be liable for the damages that their pets cause, especially if they have prior warning of the animal’s propensity for violence.

One dog owner’s negligence may have led to the death of his New York City roommate late last week after his violent pit bull viciously attacked the 46-year-old. The attack was so violent that the resident could not survive the injuries to his arm and leg. A city marshal discovered the body lying on the kitchen floor when he went to the Upper East Side apartment to forcibly evict the two men.

According to neighbors, this was not the first time that the dog had unleashed a vicious personality. A 65-year-old neighbor claims that the dog bit him earlier in the summer on June 17. “I walked out my door, and the dog attacked me. [The owner] was watching him chew on my arm, and he was laughing.”

Other neighbors reported that the owner may have helped turn a once good-natured animal into the violent alpha dog. They said that they knew the dog before the man took full ownership. They reported that the owner often abused the animal. One neighbor cautioned that “If [a] dog is mistreated, he’s going to mistreat others.”

Dogs make some of the best companions, but they are still primal animals with instincts that can become unpredictable behaviors. It is the duty of the owner to take caution to properly secure the animal and protect those around him from damage.

Source: Pocono Record, “Pit bull owner charged in death of NYC man found in apartment,” Oct. 14, 2011