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DNA test proves suspected Colorado wolf-dog hybrid is just a dog

By Daniel Uria
A dog that animal control in Colorado believed to be part wolf was released to his family after DNA tests revealed he had no wolf DNA.
 Screen capture/KDVR/AOL
A dog that animal control in Colorado believed to be part wolf was released to his family after DNA tests revealed he had no wolf DNA. Screen capture/KDVR/AOL

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March 23 (UPI) -- An animal believed to be a "wolf-dog hybrid" was returned to its home in Colorado after DNA tests proved it was only a dog.

Capone the dog was released by Aurora Animal Control as the result of a plea deal after they held him in custody when his aggressive behavior while running loose in a local neighborhood caused them to believe he may be a hybrid between a wolf and a dog.

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While held by animal control the 11-year-old Labrador-German shepherd mix underwent a DNA test, that ultimately determined he had no wolf DNA.

"The results came back negative. Not an ounce of wolf," owner Tracy Abbato told ABC 7.

Capone was still held in custody after the test, as Abbato and fellow owner Tito Serrano faced charges of keeping an aggressive or dangerous animal, allowing him to roam, failure to obtain an animal license and failing to make sure the dog had a rabies vaccine.

An Animal Law Center lawyer negotiated a plea deal that ultimately resulted in Capone's release provided he is fitted with a muzzle and retractable leash while outside Abbato and Serrano's property or in the yard until a fence is erected outside their home.

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Abbato and Serrano will also be required to pay for the rabies vaccine and other medication Capone will receive from animal control and have the dog trained by an animal behavioralist.

Judge Loretta Huffine also suspended a $1,000 fine and an impoundment fee of almost $500 as part of the ruling.

"We're so happy they realize he's a good dog, not a wolf, and he can go home," Abbato said.

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