My Advocacy
Many of us are seeking justice for dog on dog maulings so that we can hold irresponsible dog owners accountable. We strive to make sure that we protect our companion animals at all times. Moreover, we certainly do not expect another domesticated canine to maim and kill one of its own species.
When you become involved—directly, or indirectly—in an issue that resonates, you become determined to do whatever you can. It’s something that strikes a chord. That makes you want to speak out. And reach out. To consolidate ideas. Advocate for change. And help others.
My earlier blog entitled Are Current Dog On Dog Mauling Laws Unjust? describes an incident which occurred in August 2018. It involves Shih Tzu Rocky in Oldsmar FL. Here is the link https://petpeevesunmasked.com/are-current-dog-on-dog-mauling-laws-unjust/
Below I now outline two other confrontations I heard about recently. These stories highlight the dangers to dogs and why the current laws are inadequate and need to change.
My Three Chosen Stories: Rocky, Buckles, and Reese
BUCKLES, SURVIVOR, WOODSIDE NY
August 2018. Buckles was a five-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel that had been rescued from an abusive situation. As he was returning with his human from a trip to the park in Washington Heights, an off-leash dog attacked him. The other dog clamped down on his throat and then his legs. But, miraculously, he survived.
Buckles needed reconstructive surgery to his jaw which was destroyed and disfigured. It was tubed and wired shut for healing. Six weeks later he underwent a second surgery to remove the wiring.
At this time, I’m happy to report that Buckles continues to make a steady recovery from his horrific physical injuries. Nevertheless, he will likely be emotionally scarred for the rest of his life after suffering such a traumatic event.
REESE R.I.P., CASSELBERRY FL
November 2017. Six-year-old Reese, a Yorkipoo, was mauled to death by two large dogs. It happened less than a block from home, as he was returning from an evening walk. The dogs had been tethered by their owner but managed to break loose. In addition to that, they also injured the two people that were with him.
According to the existing ordinance, Casselberry authorities could fine the owner at fault $27.50. Then, if it happened again, they could issue another fine, double that amount. Sadly, they would be unable to remove the dog(s) from the property. Nevertheless, the City was well aware of the danger since these same dogs had gotten loose before. They had even attacked other dogs and lunged at people walking along the sidewalk. Despite that, however, County Animal Control would be powerless to remove the vicious animals without the owner’s consent.
A Victory For Innocent Animals
Determined to fight for tougher laws involving dog aggression, and dog-on-dog maulings in particular, a friend posted a petition online. Subsequently, Reese’s owner, Donna Syracuse, presented her case before Casselberry officials and Seminole County leaders. At the hearing, they approved adding new language to the existing ordinance on domestic animals. And this would include higher fines for irresponsible pet owners.
Demand Stricter Dog Attack Dog Laws
Syracuse hopes that this ordinance will result in the following:
- Improved communication between City and County officials to better protect citizens.
- That if an animal that is running loose, and unprovoked, attacks or kills another animal or injures humans in the process, the attacking animal shall be immediately and permanently removed from the community.
- And, if the dog’s owner has a documented history of possessing aggressive dogs, that individual should be banned from owning dogs in the future.
A Step In The Right Direction
After reaching out to Animal Control of Seminole County, they told me that an amended Aggressive Animal Ordinance was executed. It is dated 10/3/18 and will be appear on their website soon. This is a positive step forward and I am sure that many of us will be waiting patiently to read it.
To Sum Up
Everyone involved in these horrific attacks is seeking justice for dog on dog maulings.
Rocky’s owners are struggling to pay off veterinary bills and set up a GoFundMe page. They would also like to sue the aggressive dog’s owner. Not only that person, but also the owner of the condo he was renting from, and the management company. And, eventually, they hope to advocate for new laws. Such laws would replace the current ones that do nothing to deter irresponsible behavior and help keep citizens safe. Here is one example of the law as it stands today. Even after filing a police report and going in person to Animal Control, the family was told this. That a dog is not deemed dangerous until a second dog-on-dog attack is reported. And even then, it cannot be removed.
As you know, Reese’s owner had to endure further heartbreak. She related her story in detail, yet again, in front of City and County officials.
Buckles’ owner has also started a GoFundMe page to help with ongoing veterinary bills. They include costly reparative and reconstructive surgery.
My Closing Statement And Your Thoughts
- Can’t there be laws that apply state-wide?
- Why is it so difficult to pass laws at county level that are practical, logical and equitable? And ones that also serve the community at large?
- Do more helpless companion animals have to die before proper justice is served?
- And, above all, how do we get this done and done right?
Finally, are you motivated to learn more about dog abuse situations in general, as well as fighting against dogfighting rings? For information about special humane officers and zero tolerance for cruelty, abuse and neglect, you need to check this out: http://justice-rescue.com
Together, let’s keep our precious pets healthy, happy and safe!
As you have probably already realized, we aim to offer content that is focused and, at the same time, diverse. So we invite you to take a look at the following two stories that fit perfectly into the Animal Laws and Rights category.
The first describes an animated short film about human compassion for animals that had never known kindness, https://petpeevesunmasked.com/kitbull-animated-animal-oscar
And, the second story tells how a municipality in Spain became the first in the world to enact a Bill of Rights for pets, https://petpeevesunmasked.com/community-recognizes-animal-rights