But, Candy Cane, a pitbull, isn't as sweet as his name sounds.

As a means of avoiding Candy Cane's scheduled euthanization, the family made an impassioned plea to Alachua County Commissioners yesterday and offered to move their dog to Marion County for the rest of its life. The Commissioners declined the family's proposal.

Candy Cane's numerous run-ins with the law started back in January of 2005 when he left the Ferguson property and bit a pedestrian. That's when he was officially deemed dangerous by Alachua County Animal Services. In April of 2007, Candy Cane bit an elderly woman on Northwest 34th Street. As a result, he was confiscated by Animal Services. In June of 2007, Animal Services ruled that Candy Cane should be euthanized. Since then, the family has appealed the decision twice. One appeal to the County Court was denied. The ruling for the appeal to the Circuit Court is expected within the next month or two. This is the last chance for a reversal of the original decision.

"We find no satisfaction in ordering the destruction of animals but our ultimate responsibility is to protect our community," said David Flagler, the director of Alachua County Animal Services.

Flagler said that because pitbulls are such strong breeds, it's best for them to be in the homes of the most strict owners, who can ensure that incidents like these do not occur.