The owners of Cookie, the pit bull who attacked 43-year-old Laura Miller at Parkway Animal Hospital July 19th, have until August 9th to respond to Bay County Animal Control about his possible euthanization.

According to Animal Control Manager Bill Olasin, the law is cut and dry on it's requirements. "It pretty much spells out if a dog bites and severely injures or kills a human that it will be euthanized...and it doesn't allow you any discretion in there. It says it shall be destroyed in an expeditious and humane manner."

On July 19th, Cookie was in an exercise pen behind the Parkway Animal Hospital Pet Hotel when a smaller dog slipped into the pen. Miller, hearing Cookie growling, attempted to get the smaller dog out of the pen, but was then attacked by Cookie who then latched onto her arm which would eventually need to be amputated to save her life.

If Cookie's owners decide to appeal the decision and are successful, Olasin says Animal Control will pursue deeming the mixed breed pit bull a dangerous dog. The title will require a large financial commitment from the family. "Under those circumstance, a proper enclosure has to be provided, which includes not only 4 walls, but a floor and a roof," says Olasin. "There is insurance requirements of $100,000 liability insurance per year."