Fairbanks North Star Borough commission reverses dangerous-animal finding for sled dog "Bearing" after 3-2 vote

The Fairbanks North Star Borough Animal Control Commission on Jan. 6 reversed an animal-control determination that the sled dog Bearing was "dangerous," voting 3-2 to add a finding that the injury to a 6-year-old skier was not intentionally inflicted. Commissioner Rudy moved to reverse the determination and Commissioner Sherman seconded; the motion carried with Miss Olnes, Sherman and Rudy voting "yes" and Rosenberg and Chair Gardner voting "no."

The panel heard testimony from animal-control Officer Foster and Officer Ross, the victim's guardian, Josh Smith, and the dog's owners, Christie and Holden Fleming. Officer Foster described the department's review of an incident reported Nov. 1, 2025, confirmed the animal's rabies vaccination and microchip and said staff classified the dog as "dangerous, with conditions," listing standard conditions including proof of neuter, secure confinement and requirements for muzzling and restraint in public. Officer Foster also cited prior at-large reports and attached photos and a video as part of the record. Officer Ross told commissioners that the dog…