Dog again labeled potentially dangerous

Life is full of second chances and Cyprus just got his.

Cyprus, a tan pit bull, was deemed dangerous in early March after being labeled potentially dangerous in February. His owner appealed during a recent hearing and Spokane County hearing examiner Mike Dempsey recommended the designation be returned to potentially dangerous.

Dempsey said he didn’t believe there was an imminent threat from the dog. “He’s never bit anyone. We don’t know that he would actually bite anyone.”

The Spokane County Commissioners approved Dempsey’s recommendation during their meeting Tuesday.

Cyprus was labeled potentially dangerous by Spokane Country Regional Animal Protection Service in February after repeatedly chasing children on a playground at Fifth and Havana. During those outings he was accompanied by a female pit bull named Nikki, who was also labeled potentially dangerous. Both dogs also are accused of charging and snapping at a jogger in front of Spokane Valley Police Officer Eric Johnson in late February.

Johnson testified during the hearing that Cyprus ran toward home at 4319 E. Sixth Ave., but that Nikki charged him several times. He used sparks from his taser and pepper spray to drive her back before drawing his gun, but didn’t shoot her. “I didn’t have a clear shot,” he said.

The owner of the two dogs, Yvonne L. Morford, said she has gotten rid of Nikki. Cyprus escaped from the yard again in early March and neighbors called police to say the dog was barking and charging their fence. That incident led to the dangerous dog designation.

Morford presented several letters from friends and acquaintances relating Cyprus’ gentle temperament. She also produced several photos of the pit bull interacting with people and other animals.

“Cyprus is very playful,” Morford said. “He’s very misunderstood because he’s a big dog. He’s always been docile. That’s just how he plays. He likes to chase.”

Morford said she has had problems with her fences, but is working on fixing them so Cyprus can’t escape. Restrictions for potentially dangerous dogs require that they be contained or on a leash at all times.

In his written decision, Dempsey said Morford must have “secure fencing” in her yard or a locked outdoor pen in place within 30 days.

Nancy Hill, SCRAPS director, said her case would have been bolstered if the people who complained about Cyprus came to the hearing. “The direct testimony would have made a huge difference,” she said.

Animal control officer Jan Lawson testified that one of the neighbors, Eugene Murfin, was afraid of Cyprus. “They were afraid to be in their yard is what it had gotten to,” Lawson said. “There was a lot of fear.”

Hill said she is concerned because the potentially dangerous dog restrictions didn’t stop the most recent incident. “That obviously wasn’t working,” she said. “I’m hoping (Morford) takes it a little more seriously this time and keeps (Cyprus) contained. That’s really all we want.”

Hill is also concerned because Morford previously owned a female pit bull named Holly that was declared potentially dangerous in June 2002 because of threatening behavior. After the aggressive behavior continued, the dog was declared dangerous in July 2002 and euthanized. “We just have a really strong history of an irresponsible dog owner.”

Dempsey said Morford could be charged with a crime if Cyprus is found running loose again.