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Matthew · 04-03-2008, 05:20 PM

As a current owner of a 5 lb Yorkie and a 70 lb lab/pit mix, I never, never let EITHER one of them off leash without close, close supervision. And then it is in an enclosed space. I also trained T.J. (the big dog) to come to me when called, and keep him on a leash when meeting new dogs. Stanford (the little one) takes his walks off leash, but with me walking right beside him. Of course, he is older, and does not "dart off" like a younger dog might do. And I know the neighborhood: who has a dog or cat, what they are like, indoor or outdoor pets, etc...
We have lots of loose animals here, so I empathize with you. Alabama leash laws out in the sticks are non-existent. New Orleans was worse by far, however.
I view it as my responsibility, as my pets guardians, to maintain not just their safety, but the safety of other pets and people as well. If either one of them bit someone or another dog or cat, and they were off leash, I would consider it my responsibility that the occurrence happened. Most of my neighbors feel that "dogs will be dogs", and "they are supposed to be outside and unfettered." And then they complain or are heartbroken when one gets run over, or in a fight, or has 10 puppies or kittens.
That, my friends, is THEIR responsibility. Few will admit it, however.
Matthew

04-03-2008, 05:20 PM	#8
Matthew Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Northport, AL Posts: 123	Responsibilities As a current owner of a 5 lb Yorkie and a 70 lb lab/pit mix, I never, never let EITHER one of them off leash without close, close supervision. And then it is in an enclosed space. I also trained T.J. (the big dog) to come to me when called, and keep him on a leash when meeting new dogs. Stanford (the little one) takes his walks off leash, but with me walking right beside him. Of course, he is older, and does not "dart off" like a younger dog might do. And I know the neighborhood: who has a dog or cat, what they are like, indoor or outdoor pets, etc... We have lots of loose animals here, so I empathize with you. Alabama leash laws out in the sticks are non-existent. New Orleans was worse by far, however. I view it as my responsibility, as my pets guardians, to maintain not just their safety, but the safety of other pets and people as well. If either one of them bit someone or another dog or cat, and they were off leash, I would consider it my responsibility that the occurrence happened. Most of my neighbors feel that "dogs will be dogs", and "they are supposed to be outside and unfettered." And then they complain or are heartbroken when one gets run over, or in a fight, or has 10 puppies or kittens. That, my friends, is THEIR responsibility. Few will admit it, however. Matthew __________________ "From tiny to teapot: He is...STAN THE MAN!"