Owner Of Pit Bull That Attacked Poodle Has A Court Date On June 21

OCEAN GATE, NJ - The owner of a pit bull that was running loose when it mauled a poodle that later died from its injuries is due in Municipal Court on June 21, Ocean Gate Lieutenant Michael Kushta said.

"From an earlier conversation I had with (Berkeley) animal control, it's going to be up to the judge to determine what action is going to be taken with the dog who attacked the poodle," Kushta said.

The little dog, named Saphira - wasn't even a year old when the May 21 attack took place on East Cape May Avenue.

"With a very heavy heart i write this..Saphira has passed away this morning," Carol Hulbirt-Jackson wrote on Facebook. "Her heart stopped and the doctors did everything they could but she did not make it.. I truly have no words I'm at a loss and I hate posting this but its the only way i can reach everyone that has had Saphira in their prayers and thoughts. I can not thank everyone enough for their love, support and generosity we will be forever grateful! Our sweet loving rambunctious baby girl is gone."

Her husband was walking the dog on a leash on East Cape May Avenue when the pit bull approached. He snatched up Saphira and was bitten by the pit bull and dropped his dog. The pit bull then went after Saphira.

"This dog proceeded to drag, shred and rip the poodle apart," according to the gofundme page established to help the family with veterinary bills.

Her husband dialed 911, police and Berkeley Township Animal Control. Then he drove Saphira to the veterinary hospital. He was so traumatized by the attack he had to take the day off from work on Monday, Hulbirt-Jackson said.

Saphire had four large wounds in her body and lost an eye in the attack.

A gofundme page has been established to help the family with veterinary bills. As of today, $4,377 had been raised to help with vet bills. The goal is $7,000.
To donate to the gofundme account,click here.

Image: Courtesy of the Jackson family.