The St. Joseph County Animal Patrol Commission on appeal removed a formal dangerous-animal designation for a dog named Shiana and instead placed the animal on one year of probation, after hearing testimony and reviewing submitted letters and photos.

Ruth Sacaele (appearing as Ruth Sakely on the record) of 16187 Oak Hill Boulevard in Granger told the commission Shiana is a "very social loving, animal" and described the dog’s long history with people and other animals. "She is a gentle giant who has a signature nudge," Sacaele said, adding that Shiana has not shown prior aggression.

Sacaele recounted an evening in which Shiana, while on a leash, became excited when she saw another dog. She said the other owner, whom she named Mr. Obernauer in her statement, fell when both leashes wrapped around him. Sacaele said she separated the dogs and believed the incident was not an act of aggression but a management failure: "This was not an active aggression on her part. She wanted to play with another dog, and I wasn't able to manage her," she told the commission.

Animal-control staff reviewed a bite report and referenced treatment notes that said a man presented with puncture wounds to his knee and possible torn skin. Staff told commissioners there was no prior history on file for Shiana or the appellant but confirmed a bite report had been filed.

Several people who know Shiana, including Patricia Yoder, owner of Soft Touch Pet Care grooming salon, testified in support, saying they had not observed aggressive behavior in grooming or group settings. Based on the written materials, photographs and witnesses, the commission moved to place Shiana on probation for one year. Jenny (animal-control staff) told the owner the probation meant she did not need to obtain a dangerous-animal permit at this time and that staff would send formal notice.

The commission's action keeps Shiana from receiving the dangerous-animal designation provided no additional incidents occur during the probation year; staff will issue a formal letter outlining the terms.