More than 700 people offer to adopt dog that killed 6-year-old girl

More than 700 people have offered to adopt a dog that strangled a 6-year-old girl while they were playing, officials said Friday.

Kaitlyn Hassard was playing with the dog, named Jessy, on Tuesday when the 70-pound golden retriever apparently tugged on her dangling scarf. She was found by her 11-year-old brother, and pronounced dead at the hospital. The family requested that the 18-month-old dog be adopted, but not near their home. The pet was taken to the Brookhaven Animal Shelter, which has received more than 700 offers to adopt, said Mark Grossman, Manorville deputy supervisor.

Jessy will first be sent to the Helen Woodward Animal Center in Rancho Santa Fe, California, a facility that specializes in the care and adoption of animals involved in traumatic incidents. The center will assess Jessy's behavior and provide training if needed.

Services for Kaitlyn Hassard will be held at the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Manorville. Her wake was being held Thursday and Friday.

P.T.