'Aggressive' Dog Scheduled to Die Stolen from Shoreline Pound

A person broke into the either Monday night or early Tuesday morning, and stole a dog from its kennel, according to Waterford Police Lt. Jeff Nixon.

The dog was a Cane Corso that was seized more than a month ago in East Lyme for being aggressive to humans and other animals, Nixon said. It was set to be euthanized, but the owner was fighting to keep the animal alive, he said.

The person cut the chain-link fence around the animal shelter, and then opened the door to the dog’s kennel to let the dog out, Nixon said. No other animals were injured or released, he said.

Cane Corsos are "adept at hunting game or a versatile farm hand. Sturdy, strong and athletic, equipped with a vigorous temper, ready to meet any challenge," according to the Cane Corso Association of America.

"All Cane Corso puppies are sweet and adorable when you bring them home. But one must remember that this darling little thing is going to grow very quickly into a large dog," the website says. "A large dog that can be strong willed and has a dominate nature. You, as the new owner, must establish control and dominance at an early age. If you don’t take the proper steps now, this lovable little puppy can turn into a real problem in a very short time."

Whoever did it must have been familiar with the dog, because the dog was known to be aggressive to strangers, Nixon said. Nixon would not confirm the owner as a suspect, but said the investigation is still ongoing.

Nixon said police believe the animal is not in the area.