Conditions Set for Release of Dog That Attacked Boy

A bull mastiff dog named Boo that attacked a 7-year-old boy last December is set to be released from the county shelter under a plan that requires it to be muzzled in the presence of anyone but its owners.

The 11-point plan, which requires court approval, also requires the dog’s owner, Stephen Williams of Yorba Linda, to maintain a $100,000 liability insurance policy and to post “Beware of Dog” signs.

Zach Anderson Jr., who lives next door to Boo, has recovered from his injuries. He had been invited to the Williamses’ home and was walking toward a back door when the 140-pound dog attacked. The child required 60 stitches and 30 staples.

Animal control officials, in two separate administrative hearings, decided to destroy the dog, but the Williamses spent $10,000 opposing Orange County Animal Control in court. Earlier this month, they won a reprieve for Boo.

In sparing Boo, Superior Court Judge Tully H. Seymour told county officials to come up with a plan to control the animal, including measures such as a specially designed backyard for Boo and extensive training for both animal and owners.

The plan, submitted to the court Wednesday, specifies the type of kennel the dog must live in and where it should be located in the backyard. Boo also must be injected with an identifying microchip.

The Williamses, who will have two weeks from the time the court approves a plan to comply, have said they want to move from their Yorba Linda neighborhood once the dog is returned.