Fairbanks North Star Borough commission affirms 'dangerous' designation for dog Shar

The Fairbanks North Star Borough Animal Control Commission on Jan. 28 affirmed a dangerous-animal determination for a dog named Shar following an appeal by the dog's owner, who argued the incident was a herding nip and raised procedural objections to the investigation.

Animal Control lead Officer Ross told the commission the agency met its burden of proof by a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not), noting the borough code defines a bite to include puncture wounds and that an intentional bite or an attempt to bite qualifies an animal as dangerous. "A bite is defined as an injury, including but not limited to puncture wounds, lacerations and or contusions caused by the mouth and or teeth of an animal," Ross said, and added that an attempt to inflict a bite would also qualify.

Why it matters: The commission's decision lets the borough require conditions intended to reduce the risk of further bites and creates a written record of findings the owner may challenge in court. The owner may seek removal of a dangerous designation after one year,…