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Veterinarian who refused to return ailing dog to homeless man to spend 10 days in jail
25th November, 2025 12:20 PM
A Michigan veterinarian was sentenced to 10 days in jail Monday for refusing to return a dog to a homeless man after finding the ailing pit bull mix tied to a truck.
Amanda Hergenreder’s lawyer asked for 120 hours of community service for the misdemeanor larceny conviction. But Grand Rapids Judge Angela Ross said jail was more appropriate for her, plus Ksh29,250 in restitution.
A year ago, Hergenreder was in Grand Rapids for a professional conference when she saw the 16-year-old dog tied to a truck near a coffee shop. She said she took him to her clinic, two hours away, cleared up a severe urinary tract infection, and removed a rotten tooth.
Prosecutors charged Hergenreder after she refused to bring the dog back to Chris Hamilton, a Grand Rapids man who lacked a permanent home at the time.
She cited her ethical duties as a veterinarian and noted that the dog wasn’t licensed. A jury, however, convicted her at a two-day trial.
Hergenreder told the judge that she saw a “dog in distress.” But she also acknowledged that she “failed to see the whole picture.”
“I failed to honor the bond between Vinnie and Mr. Hamilton. I failed to recognize the heartbreak that would follow,” the Millington, Michigan, veterinarian said before being sentenced. “I failed to stop, think, and ask questions.”
Vinnie, or Biggby, as Hergenreder called him, was euthanised in July 2025 because of health problems in old age.
A dog nearing the end of life due to severe age-related illness may be euthanised to prevent further suffering. A veterinarian first assesses the animal’s condition, then discusses the decision with the guardian.
When agreed, the vet administers medications that gently slow the dog’s heart and breathing until they peacefully pass away, usually while being comforted. The process is calm, painless, and focused on dignity and compassion, ensuring the animal does not endure prolonged discomfort.
“We’re disappointed in Dr. Hergenreder being sentenced to jail, but we take solace in the fact that Biggby/Vinnie spent his last few months in a warm, safe, loving, caring environment,” defense attorney Miles Greengard said.
Hergenreder could have been sentenced to up to 93 days in jail and a Ksh64,625 fine.
