The Animal Appeals Board meeting held on May 16, 2025, in Carroll County, Maryland, focused on a significant case involving a dog named Tucker, a Labrador retriever and Great Dane mix, owned by Nick and Anna Farris. The meeting was convened to address an appeal regarding the Humane Society of Carroll County's determination that Tucker is a vicious dog following an incident that occurred on December 30, 2024.

The session began with Liz Moore, the assistant county attorney representing the Humane Society, outlining the case. She detailed the incident where Tucker allegedly attacked two children, aged five and ten, who were visiting the Farris home. Both children sustained multiple bites and required medical attention, with one child needing seven stitches. The Humane Society requested that the board uphold its classification of Tucker as a vicious dog, citing the Carroll County Code's definition of a vicious animal as one that poses a physical threat to humans or domestic animals.

Following this, Natalie Farris, Tucker's owner, provided her opening statement. She described Tucker as a rescue dog who had been part of their family for about a year and a half. Farris emphasized that Tucker had never shown aggressive behavior prior to the incident and that the attack was an isolated occurrence triggered by the children knocking on the door. She explained that Tucker ran out when she opened the door, and she attempted to restrain him but was unable to do so in time.

Farris further clarified that their yard is fully fenced, and Tucker typically remains under control. She expressed her belief that the situation was a result of her actions rather than Tucker's behavior, asserting that he is not a threat to the community. The board members engaged with Farris, asking questions about the circumstances surrounding the incident and the children's previous interactions with their family.

The meeting proceeded with the Humane Society's presentation of evidence and witness testimonies, which will be followed by further deliberation by the board. The outcome of this case will determine Tucker's status and any potential restrictions on his ownership.

As the meeting continued, the board's deliberation and final decision on the appeal were anticipated, with implications for both the Farris family and the broader community regarding dog ownership and public safety.