Dog Attack

Just when you thought it was safe to let your guard down, another obstacle is thrown your way.

I just got word that one of our dogs was in a dog fight. More like a dog mauling. Some lady came along with a stray pit bull, saying how he seemed friendly but she didn't know what to do with him. She said she would take him home for now. About 10 minutes later, the pitbull shows back up outside our house. Our little old man, an old cocker spaniel, was out in the yard. The pit bull saw our dog, and ran over to him. When he turned and went for the door, the pit bull attacked. Apparently it had our dog's head in its mouth for about a minute, all the while my girlfriend and neighbor were kicking it in the head trying to get it to let go. Finally he did, and an emergency vet trip ensued.

Now, I have definately seen a lot of pit bulls. I know the stories of how tough they are, and how they can bite through almost anything. I also know about the classic answer I get from pit bull owners "everyone is scared of him, but he wouldn't hurt a fly". Where do these angry dogs come from? Why in the hell are they loose? I guess those who are irresponsible enough to raise a dog that is viscious are also irresponsible enough to leave their gate open.

So now what? Do we push to have the dog put down? Do we trust that the owner won't let this happen again (apparently animal control has picked this dog up several times now). Shouldn't there be a way to mark this owner so that they cannot purchase more dogs? I don't know what a person does in this situation. I do know that if any stray pit bulls show their face in my yard anytime soon, they are going to be receiving a boot to the jaw. I love animals, but am also very protective of mine. If a dog comes to my yard and attacks one of my dogs, that dog will be marked for death by me. Sorry to all those irresponsible pit bull owners out there.

So, life continues, the saga never offers a dull moment. Will I get to fish tonight? Signs point to no, but we'll see. I need a breather from life. Get me into my boat please!