So sorry to hear this-how scary for you both.
You ARE very nice, and I understand why you didn't want to get into an altercation like that, however, IF there is a leash law he was breaking that law and needs to be told.
Can you get some of your friends to band together and make an annoucement that ALL dogs must be supervised and on leashes at all times for this play group as is required by law (or make it a rule of the play group?)-it doesn't have to be personal or directed toward this person (although hopefully he would take the hint). Then it wouldn't come off as a persoal argument between you and this owner but a general consensus that ALL the dogs are safer that way. I mean you could point out that dogs will be dogs and that would protect both the owner of the potential "attacker" as well as the "attack-ee"
I can't imagine that ANY dog owner really wants to be in the horrific situation of having thier dog cause another dog serious harm...not only is that emotionally trying, one has to pay for the vet bills. By asking all to use leashes you are actually helping protect those owners from emotional and monetary trauma, as well as protecting the doggies!
Also, some cities are much more stringent about leash laws-I have lived places where one can actually call the police and report an off leash dog and the
police would respond and ticket the person! You might mention that next time someone might not be as understanding as you were and might turn him in. |