Raise the Hammer

My condolences to both you and your daughter. I hope that both of you can one day get over the attack, it will not be quick or easy. These kind of traumatic experiences can leave lingering effects for a long time. It might be a good idea to expose your daughter to another dog, one that is not aggressive. There are certainly lots of those around. There is a group that brings dogs to funerals, the presence can help some people. These dogs are all well trained and very docile. Maybe you know someone with a small puppy? Some exposure even for a few seconds at a time might help her learn to not fear all dogs. Even if she is not real happy about it at first. I know it is very fine line to tread and you her father knows best exactly how to walk that line.

This should not have happened. Ever. Dogs like all other pets must be subservient to all people. No person no matter how big or small, old or young should have to fear somebody's pet. A stranger's or a family member's.

In my lifetime I have had several dogs. I have always taken the time, energy and discipline to train my dogs very well. Before any dog is taken off leash in an environment where it can interact with other people it must be highly trained, not only to obey voice commands but also how to interact with other people. If any dog bites a person that dog needs to be put down. No exceptions no excuses. Nobody should be in fear of an unprovoked attack. The only acceptable reason for a dog attack is to stop serious criminal behaviour at the instigation of the owner/handler.

Owners must be held accountable not only for their pets but also their decisions and the result thereof. I feel bad for the dog. He did what he has been bread to do for centuries. Herd and control other creatures. The fact it should now be put down is strictly the fault of the owner. Too bad.

I can see the day where an owner must have insurance to cover the damages that a dog can inflict on a person. The same reason owners must have insurance on their cars. Shame that stupid uncaring owners are taking us down this path and ruining one of life's great pleasures (pets, in particular dogs) for so many of us.