Almaden woman hires local attorney in fatal dog attack

By Barbara Luis

Staff Writer

An Almaden resident whose prized Norwich terrier was mauled to death last month has hired a local attorney. Sara Whitlock has referred all questions regarding any legal matters to local Almaden attorney, Jeff Hare.

When questioned about her possible intention to file civil charges against the owners of the American bulldog, Max, who mauled Banjo to death, Whitlock would only say that she is “not rushing into anything—I've got time. It's really hard…much harder than I thought it would be.”

Contacted at his local offices, Hare said he was not able to comment on the Whitlock case for at least 48 hours and not until after he spoke with Mrs. Whitlock for her “OK” to speak to the press.

Hare would not confirm or deny the possibility of civil charges in connection with the case.

“Max” is owned by San Jose Shark's defensive star Mike Rathje. He is currently restricted to home confinement by the City of San Jose Animal Services Department until a further investigation of the case is completed.

In the meantime, the Rathje family sent flowers to Mrs. Whitlock along with a letter of condolence. Mrs. Rathje has also telephoned the Whitlock home to offer further concern. But while Mrs. Whitlock says she appreciates the Rathje's sentiments, it's “not enough for the loss of my dog. I'm not comfortable with home quarantine.”

Meantime, Whitlock says she has much more on her mind these days besides the devastating loss of her dog, Banjo. She says she is anxiously waiting for word about the health of her 4-year-old grandson, who is fighting leukemia.

The young boy lives with his parents in Oregon and is currently in the middle of chemotherapy treatments to save his life. A series of six treatments have been ordered and Mrs. Whitlock says he's already been through three. The boy's white cell count has to be high enough to withstand more of the powerful anti-cancer drugs. According to Mrs. Whitlock, “He has to be up to 1,000, at least.”

On a brighter note, Mrs. Whitlock reveals that Banjo's Vancouver breeders have offered her a new puppy who could be available as soon as next spring. The puppy would be the offspring of the same Norwich terrier who fathered Banjo. Whitlock says she's looking forward to bringing the new dog home sometime in the future. Each dog costs an estimated $2,500.