HOLLY TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A Michigan State Police trooper was bitten while responding to a report of a loose, malnourished dog during dangerously cold conditions in Oakland County, authorities said.
The incident occurred around 9:35 a.m. Jan. 18 near Halsey Road and Thompson Road in Holly Township.
According to police, the MSP received a call about a dog roaming in severe cold that appeared malnourished and at risk due to the weather. Troopers located the animal in an open field, where it had created a makeshift den for shelter.
When a trooper attempted to approach the dog, it bit the trooper on the hand, drawing blood from a finger.
The dog was safely contained, and Oakland County Animal Control responded to take custody of the animal for quarantine. Officials said the dog was not wearing a collar and no owner information is known at this time.
The injured trooper was treated at a hospital and released.
With dangerously cold temperatures expected across Southeast Michigan, police urged residents to take precautions to protect animals from exposure.
“It is going to be a very cold week,” said F/Lt. Mike Shaw. “Make sure you keep your pets inside as much as possible as the cold can cause them problems even though they have a fur coat.”
Animal welfare officials note that prolonged exposure to extreme cold can be life threatening for pets, even those accustomed to outdoor conditions. Residents are encouraged to provide proper shelter, food, and water, and to bring pets indoors whenever possible.
The investigation into the dog’s ownership remains ongoing.
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- NMD Staff
Staff@NewMediaDetroit.com