Per reports, the unfortunate family reportedly got an unpleasant surprise when their local animal control took away their dog and refused to give it back, alleging that the dog is actually a different animal. The  family had adopted their dog, Capone, 10 years earlier from an animal shelter. At the time he was presented to them as a German shepherd mix. Capone was picked up by animal control after he escaped from his yard.

While the family’s veterinarian agrees with that classification, the Animal Control maintains that ‘their pet’ is a wolf-hybrid (SEE PHOTO).  “He jumped the fence,” the pet’s owner, Tracy, told KDVR. “It’s the first time in the seven years we’ve lived here.” “They say he is a hybrid-wolf now and don’t want to release [him] back to us because he is an exotic animal,” Tracy said. “I am 100 percent confident he is not a wolf. Not a doubt in my mind.” If the results of a DNA test prove otherwise, Capone will either be sent to a wolf sanctuary or put down. He is being held at the shelter while they await the test results.

“It’s hard for me. It’s hard for my kids,” Tracy said. “He’s a family member. We’ve had him for almost 10 years. We miss him.” “It’s been real painful,” said Tracy’s 11-year-old daughter, Ciara. “I hope they let us keep him because he’s really special to me.” The family has hired an attorney. They plan to ask a judge whether Capone can live at home at least until the DNA results come back.

“I don’t understand,” Tracy said. “This dog has a loving, caring home. People who abuse dogs, leave them outside in 2-degree weather, how do they still have their dogs?” The Animal Control released the following statement: “AA Services ordered the DNA test after its experts observed the animal’s behavior, mannerisms and physical characteristics and believed them to be consistent with those of a wolf hybrid. If the animal is confirmed to be a wolf hybrid and a judge grants ownership to Aurora Animal Services, the primary goal would be to locate a sanctuary that specializes in such animals and can provide the animal with a new home. AA Services is committed to balancing the needs of people and animals in the city by providing humane shelter, treatment and placement of animals, and part of that mission involves enforcing the city’s animal laws.” Ladies and gentlemen, we are republishing this story to raise awareness about wolf hybrid dogs.