Resident recounts Petey’s killing and urges stronger enforcement after Campbell Park mauling

Tom Boller told the Woodland City Council Tuesday that his 14‑pound dog, Petey, was mauled at Campbell Park by an unleashed larger pit‑bull and later died after treatment at UC Davis. Boller described the attack, questioned the effectiveness of current penalties and asked the city and county to consider more proactive enforcement and ordinance changes.

"He latched on to Petey's neck and head... that attack lasted for approximately two minutes," Boller said, describing his attempts to stop the animal and the lack of immediate help. He said an animal-control officer visited the owner’s home but the dog remained with the owner because the owner claimed the incident was a first offense.

Laurie Jennings, who identified herself as Boller’s partner and a longtime Woodland resident, told the council she has seen frequent social-media reports of unleashed dogs and that delays and staffing shortages at animal services have hindered timely case documentation. She urged enforcement of relevant city, county and state ordinances to prevent others from being hurt.

Mayor Stallard (addressing public comment) expressed condolences and said county animal-services staff were present and would review the incident; he suggested adding patrols in the area if the problem persists. The council did not take formal action during the meeting; the county staff presentation later in the agenda discussed broader governance of animal services but did not resolve this specific complaint.

The council and staff encouraged the speakers to continue working with animal control and to provide any records or case numbers so staff can follow up.