Hybrid Wolf Gets Loose, Attacks Small Dog

Steve Decker rescued his 4-year-old papillon named Romeo Sunday from the jaws of a 12-year-old hybrid wolf named Lakota.

After escaping from its pen a house on Old York Road in North Franklin, Lakota made its way to Decker’s back yard and snatched Romeo.

Decker chased after the hybrid wolf and caught up with it.

"I just kicked him in the butt real quick and once I did that he dropped Romeo," said Decker.

Romeo was treated for several injuries at a Wheeling clinic.

Lakota was captured and returned to its owner but was later euthanized.

A state wildlife officer said the owner, Valerie Lanning, now faces a fine of up to $1,500.

Lanning did not have a permit from the game commission.

Romeo is still recovering.

Previous Stories: July 18, 2006: Wolf Hybrids Kill Woman July 17, 2006: Wolves Attack, Kill Woman Who Raised Them