A Michigan veterinarian has been sentenced to 10 days in jail for refusing to return a dog to a homeless man after rescuing the ailing pit bull mix. The case centers on Amanda Hergenreder, who took the 16-year-old dog, found tied to a truck near a coffee shop in Grand Rapids, to her clinic two hours away for treatment. She addressed a severe urinary tract infection and removed a decayed tooth.
Hergenreder was convicted of misdemeanor larceny after she declined to return the dog, named Vinnie (also called Biggby), to its owner, Chris Hamilton, who was unhoused at the time. Her defense cited her ethical obligations as a veterinarian and the fact that the dog was unlicensed, but a jury found her guilty following a two-day trial.
At sentencing, Hergenreder expressed remorse, acknowledging she “failed to honor the bond between Vinnie and Mr. Hamilton” and recognized the emotional impact of her decision. Judge Angela Ross ruled that jail time was appropriate and also ordered her to pay Ksh29,250 in restitution. The defense had requested 120 hours of community service instead.
Vinnie was later euthanised in July 2025 due to age-related health issues. The euthanasia process was conducted to prevent further suffering, ensuring a peaceful and compassionate passing.
Defense attorney Miles Greengard stated, “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.”
Hergenreder faced a potential sentence of up to 93 days in jail and a Ksh64,625 fine.
