The Select Board deemed a dog a “nuisance” after the previous owner allegedly used the dog as an extension of domestic violence.

A dangerous dog hearing was held in the Select Board’s May 13 meeting. Wareham Animal Control officer Devin Cloutier said Max, a 2-year-old Australian Shepherd formerly owned by Marcio Mombrini was allegedly used as an extension of domestic violence.

“The bites caused by Max were often described as a result of resource guarding that Mr. Mombrini did nothing to correct,” Cloutier said. “There were two bites described that resulted in punctures to both victims. These bites, although significant, are what I would expect to see and often do see when dogs are understimulated, under-exercised and lack structure in their environment.”

The bites Cloutier refers to came over Max’s lifespan and said his behavior got progressively worse over time.

“When he would intimidate people, that was allowed, even encouraged as far as I was told which is exactly where we started to see this behavior,” she said. “The dog is a herding dog, very high energy and notoriously nip and use their mouths more than they should if not given the proper training.”

She added Max received some behavioral training around a year ago in which the dog was boarded for 10 days and returned to Mombrini with follow up trainings scheduled. 

However, Cloutier said it “was pretty clear that there was never any follow up done and there was no structure given to this dog.”

Mombrini had a contract with Jacqueline Orlando of Clover Creek Aussies, the Rochester based breeder he got the dog from that if he ever surrendered Max, the dog would be returned to Orlando.

Max is currently in Orlando’s custody. Neither Mombrini nor Orlando attended the May 13 hearing.

Originally, Cloutier recommended the dog be humanely euthanised but because Orlando is now in possession of the dog, she recommended the dog be labeled a nuisance, which the board passed unanimously.

With the nuisance label comes several restrictions Orlando must follow.

Orlando must get Max additional behavioral training and Max cannot be handled by anyone under 18-years-old. Max must remain on a leash no more than 6 feet in length when in public spaces and Max is not permitted to have any contact with Mombrini ever again.

The last restriction is the animal control officer of any town Max is moved to in the future must be notified within 30 days of his arrival.