[speck103]

Thank You ladies so much for all the advice, information and well wishes!
So much good info here and your caring has me sitting here in tears.

Yes, I have been documenting everything and the neighbors who helped us are willing to give statements if needed.

Originally Posted by roxies_mom

It's a shame that small dog owners can't walk our dogs without the fear of something like this. I've heard of this so many times I'm always a little pernoid to take Roxie out with me. You might think about a doggie stroller or taking them one at a time so you don't have to give it up completely. Then when you see a dog coming or hear one barking you pick them up untill the threat is gone. It's a shame it has to even be that way.

I always thought I was being vigilant and would promptly pick my dogs up and go inside whenever I saw a stray.
This dog took us by surprise though. he ran up from behind before my dogs even knew he was there. I first reacted by pulling on my leashes to pick them up, but the pit was too fast and jumped and grabbed him before I could do anything.
This happened about 10ft from the front door of our complex.

Originally Posted by msjagg

Poor little Merlot!! Glad to here he's recovering nicely. 3 weeks ago I took Baron for a walk down the street and @ 3 different homes dogs came out to bark and attacked Baron. Thank goodness I use a 4 prong cane to walk with!!! I've never said that before, But without it we'd be toast. I went to the homes and no one would open the door. Kids outside said they're out and off the leash all the time. This development is getting dangerous. I have'nt gone for a walk since. Calling the police doesn't help, they're too busy....... I hope everone reads your post and uses extra caution when walking their little ones!!! Blessings to you both....

I'm so sorry that happened to you. The only reason the police responded so quickly was because a neighbor called it in as a domestic dispute or attack. They thought my screams for help were because of a person attacking me at first.

Originally Posted by melanie daley

Oh my god I'm SO sorry for you and lil' Merlot.... I live in Belmont Shore and most dog owners are VERY responsible here, but I know it can happen ANYWHERE.... I am SO sorry you guys are going thru this..

If the person won't take responsibility then small claims is the way to go ASAP. the cap in CA for small claims is $7,500 FYI... I hope you don't have to go that way, and that this person will take responsibility for not having their animal leashed and just having their gate open.. But it's pretty much an open and shut case IMO..... Just document EVERYTHING!!

Good luck to you, and I have said a prayer for Merlot that he has a very speedy recovery!! xx

Thanx for all the info. I actually contacted Justin Rudd because I know he does so much for animals here and in Belmont. he gave me an animal lawyer to contcat, but he was'nt taking any clients out of his area, so could'nt help me.

Originally Posted by JoeyP

This kind of thing makes me so angry

If you Own a Dog YOU are Responsible for that Dog
Yes ... I think absolutely you should sue these people
While I don't like when animals are put down because of
the self-centeredness and laziness of people like these

They should not even be allowed to keep a goldfish

I'm glad your Yorkie is going to pull through but Nobody should have to go through what you did

Thank You and I agree! The thing is I'm not even mad at the dog, I blame the owners. When I had to identify the dog in the animal control truck, he just looked so pitiful. It's sad all the way around.