Scituate Board Stands Firm on Euthanizing Veteran's Dog Despite Emotional Appeal

Ranger, a Veteran's Emotional Support Dog , Will Be Put Down Following Several Incidents and Failure to Comply with Muzzle Orders

SCITUATE, MA - April 23 - The Scituate Select Board voted to uphold the Animal Control Board's decision to euthanize a dog named Ranger following multiple biting incidents and failure to comply with muzzle orders. The emotional appeal from the dog's owner, Kevin Volker, a decorated Army combat veteran diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), was not enough to sway the board's decision.

Volker, who served in Afghanistan and received an official disability rating from the Veterans Administration, relies on Ranger as an emotional support dog to cope with the daily challenges associated with PTSD. Despite this, the Select Board determined that public safety concerns outweighed the personal benefits Volker derives from his companion.

The decision comes after a series of hearings and incidents involving Ranger. In July 2021, the dog bit three people, leading to a muzzle order issued by the Animal Control Officer. The order was reaffirmed by the Animal Control Board in December 2021, following an incident where Ranger knocked down and severely injured a man in Volker's driveway.

Most recently, on Jan. 5, 2024, Ranger bit a 5-year-old child at Fairview Cemetery while unmuzzled, causing the child to bleed and require medical attention. This incident led to the Animal Control Board's decision to euthanize the dog, citing a lack of alternative solutions given the totality of the situation and Volker's repeated failure to keep Ranger muzzled in public.

Volker, represented by attorney Paul Gannon, appealed the decision to the Select Board, requesting additional conditions and training for Ranger. Gannon emphasized Volker's distinguished military service and the vital role Ranger plays in his mental health and well-being, stating, "If the dog is euthanized, I mean, I could have the doctor speak on what the repercussions of that would be. I think it would be devastating."

However, the Select Board members expressed their concerns about the pattern of incidents and the risk to public safety. "I don't have the confidence that you have control over your dog," said one board member. "I just don't."

Another member added, "We have to do the right thing to protect the residents in our town. And I have to keep in my mind that it's a dog and not all dogs are good, not all dogs are bad. And you know, sometimes it's just about the control. And I don't think that controlling the dog has been demonstrated over the years."

The board unanimously voted to affirm the Animal Control Board's decision, with the understanding that Volker has the option to appeal to the district court. While sympathetic to Volker's situation and grateful for his service, the Select Board ultimately prioritized the safety of the community.

"This is heartbreaking," said a board member. "This is not an easy decision, but I do think the Animal Control Board has worked with you over the years in a reasonable fashion to try to make sure [this doesn't happen]. Because nobody wants to put a dog down."

The incident has also raised concerns about the town's bylaws regarding dangerous dogs, with one resident, Dan Burke, whose son was bitten by Ranger, calling for stricter enforcement and penalties for violations of muzzle orders. The Select Board acknowledged the need to review and potentially revise the bylaws to better address such situations in the future.