Not a Bird, a MAN Swooped down to STEAL MY DOG!

[Maximo]

Carla, you are very sweet to think of other people's feelings. Although I have not had a dog harmed by a hawk, I don't think anyone would be offended by your title. It is very appropriate because it conveys the shock and a warning that birds are not the only threat that can swoop in.

I understand your concerns too about teaching Yazmin to like people, and about dressing her up. She will likely attract just as much attention nekkid because she is so adorable. I'm angry for you that the simple joy of taking your doggie out for a stroll has been robbed from you. I pray you will feel at least semi-comfortable again one day, but I understand not being completely comfortable. When I walk my boys, I feel like I am always on edge looking for loose dogs.

[lisaly]

Originally Posted by YazminD

Thank you and so many others for being so caring and supportive. It's really helpful to know that YT members understand the fear and shock one goes through while trying to protect our babies.
I can understand why you would be fearful of taking your little ones out alone. With them being so small, even a child could snatch them up so easily!

I have to say though, until you mention little ones being taken by Hawks and other wild animals, I didn't realized what an impact this incident really had on me!
It made me take notice of my own title of this thread. This man picking up Yazi and with one swooping motion... then she disappeared! His actions reminded me of a bird swooping down and pick something up and I couldn't get that image out of my mind!
If I'd been thinking more clearly, I would've realized how insensitive this would be to others who have lost their little ones to Hawks and other birds of prey!
I can only imagine how devastating and heartbreaking this had to be for their owners and I pray I haven't offended anyone and if I have, I'm truly very sorry.

Yazi's less than 2 years old, has a lot of energy, loves going for walks down the Blvd. and the attention she gets from all the shop owners and strangers I've allowed to pet her along the way. I've actually encouraged her not to fear strangers and wanted her to be well socialized in public.
Since this incident, I've wondered if this is now a big mistake! Because she is so friendly towards strangers, this may be why she didn't bark, growl, or even try to break away.

If I can get my nerve up to walk her down the Blvd. in the future, I'm checking into purchasing pepper spray to carry with me.
A store on line has different types, one to use on humans and one to use safely on animals.
I'm also thinking it may be better not to dress her up during our walks because I know this brings a lot of attention to her also.

You have not been insensitive at all. My heart is breaking for you. That man took away your feeling of joy walking your little girl and your feeling of security. I, too, love walking Katie and the fact that she loves people and is so friendly toward them. My pharmacy has a huge display of products like pepper spray that I will now look at after reading what happened to you and Yazmin. I still think it's a good thing that she doesn't fear strangers and that you socialized her so well. I hope that you can once again feel joy when walking your precious little girl.

[yorkietalkjilly]

I haven't had a baby taken or killed by a bird but I wouldn't think your title was offensive to them. You were just making a title that pointed out there are other predators out there besides birds and critters. Who would ever think a person could just walk by and grab one of our babies out in public? I honestly never even thought of it consciously until I saw your thread so thank you for getting my attention with the thread headline and posting the story so we could all be more aware. I still think what you did was incredibly brace and you are a hero for fighting back. Hope the medical exam shows nothing but a big bruise and doc says time will fix it. Hold little Yaz tight tonight and stay safe out on those streets!!! (I'll bet that guy will run the other way if he ever sees you again!)

[YazminD]

Originally Posted by marlenemaria

Thank god your baby is safe and you are safe.

How so very scary -it's amazing how we find the strength within to fight for our own, I will tear someone apart if they try to hurt my babies.

I haven't read through all the posts, but can someone tell me where I can purchase a buddy belt - I'm not comfortable with my harness now

Is it crazy that I'm afraid to take my babies for walks in the neighborhood or even go anywhere with them? I am so fearful people will see where I live and try to break in (I have an alarm, but was thinking of cameras too) I live in an enclosed community, not the type of area crime is an issue, but I'm just so afraid something will happen to my lils, people can be so envious

I'm glad to see (Maximo) answered your question concerning where to purchase a Buddy Belt. She's who I would have referred you to also. I've purchased all Yazi's BB's from her and have never been so grateful to Kristin for carrying them!
I obviously don't live in a gated community but in a very small community close to 30 years! I think the main Blvd. is all of 3 miles long and is lined with benches along the way. I've sat alone on the Blvd. many, many times over the years even at 3:00 in the morning!
From what the Officer's told me, this guy has a long criminal record and his residence is in another state!

Originally Posted by DBlain

Wow in broad day light in front of busy stores, who would think such a think could happen. So glad you are both safe. What did they say about him having access to any reports with your home address on it, sure how the police are not forced to givet that type of info out.

I still have to go down to the Police Station and get the report some time this week. I thought I asked the officer's if he would have access to my personal information, but I can't remember if either one answered me! I think that's when they just told me he didn't live in my state. I was just so shook up at the time, sitting on the sidewalk and crying like a baby all I wanted to do was get Yazi home safe and sound! I'll know when I get the report.

Originally Posted by Maximo

I am a retailer of Buddy Belts. You can see them on my website: Buddy Belt Harness, Leather Dog Harness

Two Luxury Editions will be added by this evening: Gold and Pearls

Thank you Kristin for letting marlenemaria know you have the Buddy Belts. As I said last night, knowing that she was wearing her harness it what gave me the courage to hold on to Yazi's leash for her dear life!

[cindersellie]

How awful! I'm glad you hung on to that leash! I would have let the guy drag me kicking and screaming behind him if it happened to me! What a horrible person that man was. That guy has No morals at all! Stealing isn't ok, hitting a lady isn't either! What a jerk!

I am glad you fought him and you had good people helping you. Glad you're both okay too!

[citygirl123]

Just came across this thread this morning. Wow. I guess all of us will be more aware of our surroundings and who is around. I've been thinking of that pepper spray too...good idea. I walk in a small neighborhood park, but you never know.

I'm so sorry for your experience, but am glad your dog is ok. I hope you are healing well also.

[YazminD]

Originally Posted by Maximo

Carla, you are very sweet to think of other people's feelings. Although I have not had a dog harmed by a hawk, I don't think anyone would be offended by your title. It is very appropriate because it conveys the shock and a warning that birds are not the only threat that can swoop in.

I understand your concerns too about teaching Yazmin to like people, and about dressing her up. She will likely attract just as much attention nekkid because she is so adorable. I'm angry for you that the simple joy of taking your doggie out for a stroll has been robbed from you. I pray you will feel at least semi-comfortable again one day, but I understand not being completely comfortable. When I walk my boys, I feel like I am always on edge looking for loose dogs.

Originally Posted by lisaly

You have not been insensitive at all. My heart is breaking for you. That man took away your feeling of joy walking your little girl and your feeling of security. I, too, love walking Katie and the fact that she loves people and is so friendly toward them. My pharmacy has a huge display of products like pepper spray that I will now look at after reading what happened to you and Yazmin. I still think it's a good thing that she doesn't fear strangers and that you socialized her so well. I hope that you can once again feel joy when walking your precious little girl.

Originally Posted by yorkietalkjilly

I haven't had a baby taken or killed by a bird but I wouldn't think your title was offensive to them. You were just making a title that pointed out there are other predators out there besides birds and critters. Who would ever think a person could just walk by and grab one of our babies out in public? I honestly never even thought of it consciously until I saw your thread so thank you for getting my attention with the thread headline and posting the story so we could all be more aware. I still think what you did was incredibly brace and you are a hero for fighting back. Hope the medical exam shows nothing but a big bruise and doc says time will fix it. Hold little Yaz tight tonight and stay safe out on those streets!!! (I'll bet that guy will run the other way if he ever sees you again!)

Thank you ladies for your compassion and taking a big weight off my heart. It's truly was how I percieved the situation at the time.
I would never knowingly make light of something so horriable as a bird or any other preditor attacking someone's precious baby.

[bijoux1]

I agree that I don't think anyone at all would take any offense to what you said at all!!! Fortunately I have not had a bird take my dog, but we had one come way to close to us for comfort to us on a walk a while back. And the fact is that your experience with that horrible man very much does sound quite similar to the way a predatory bird would swoop in and then disappear just as suddenly!

I am just so glad that Yazi is safe, and I hope that you are feeling better as well!! It is just a shame you ever had to go through this!!

To the poster asking about Buddy Belts, I also am a happy happy customer of Kristen's aka username Maximo, and I can't say enough about her wonderful customer service!!

[yorkiemini]

Any attack on our babies, bird or man, is a major concern. Doesn't make any difference who or what the predator is. You did a great job protecting Yaz and should be proud. Truly you did not offend anyone with your title.

Those two guys who helped you are real heros!

[Connie]

How shocking for that to happen to you and your precious baby! Unbelievable the nerve of some people. Thank goodness there were people around to help you and that he didn't get the leash from you. Hugs to you...I feel so bad you went through something so awful, but so thankful that he didn't get Yazmin!

[msyorktown]

[QUOTE=
Geez... I have to say your post on ancora_imparo's thread concerning the little girl who stole her Jaeger... The part where you said you'd hate to spend the night in jail cuz you have to beat someone down for trying to take your babies! Lol, That statement cracked me up!
I needed a good laugh after these past few days as I sure ancora_imparo could use a laugh about now also !
I wish I would've been as Brave and had your Courage at the time this was happening to me.
I'm always proud to say Yazi has 6 Buddy Belts because of the beautiful colors and how they're designed, but that day I realized because of the harness design, I was not going to let go of her leash no matter what![/QUOTE]

I'm very happy I could make you laugh, after the day you had, and ancora_imparo as well, I hope!
I drive a bus for the local tranit authority here (public transit), ppl often ask me if I have any problems on the bus, with unruly passengers and such....after 16yrs, no not really, I guess just the look on my face tells people, 'don't mess with me, I don't play'...that stance has gotten me sent to sensitivity training!!! LOL! Management claims I'm too serious...I'm not really, that's just me.
The guy that tried to take Yazzy from you would not be walking right now..had I been in your position...not bravery at all, just adreneline would have taken over...I'm like a lioness when it comes to my 'kids' (skin or fur)...leave them alone and all will be well....come to close without permission, and see who emerges...And it would be ME going to jail....
Have you been to see your doctor...how are you feeling?

[Buster Brown]

Originally Posted by yorkiemini

Oh No

So glad you and Yaz are OK. Just too scary.

When someone attempted to steal Cali out of my car the detectives pushed the part about trying to steal the vehicle because the penalty is greater for that (or assault) than for pet theft.

This got me thinking that you really should see a Doctor to press assault charges. They may carry more weight with the police/court system than the attempted abduction.

[joeyyy2010]

Wow this is completely crazy! I would be so scared! I am glad youre ok and that Yazmin is ok. This is one thing that frightens me to take my little dog for a walk. I never go alone so he doesnt get many walks and like you, I live in a small neighborhood.

[navillusc]

Originally Posted by Maximo

Carla, you are very sweet to think of other people's feelings. Although I have not had a dog harmed by a hawk, I don't think anyone would be offended by your title. It is very appropriate because it conveys the shock and a warning that birds are not the only threat that can swoop in.

I understand your concerns too about teaching Yazmin to like people, and about dressing her up. She will likely attract just as much attention nekkid because she is so adorable. I'm angry for you that the simple joy of taking your doggie out for a stroll has been robbed from you. I pray you will feel at least semi-comfortable again one day, but I understand not being completely comfortable. When I walk my boys, I feel like I am always on edge looking for loose dogs.

The best defense is always staying alert and aware of your surroundings. Not just with our fur babies, but ourselves, too.

I had 2 men try to get in the car with me back in the '70's in a crowded, well lit shopping plaza parking lot. They were unsuccessful because I had a sort of 'premonition' that something was 'wrong' and was prepared to open my car door, get in, locking the door on the way in so it'd be locked when it shut, and I'd no sooner shut it than the 2 men came out from beside each side of the van parked in front of me, each trying to open the door on their side of my car. My Yorkie-Poo was with me, and he NEVER let anyone touch Mommy's car without "explaining" it loudly and vigorously to them and even HE did not have time to react before they were past the car...or would have been in there with us if I had not been alert...and, thanks to the powers/angels that be...warned of danger.

I do not fear going out alone...never have...but I stop at the door and look around at everyone and everything before going further, and a few other preparedness things. You will likely be a lot more observant from this point on as well, but do not allow it to ruin your life. This may well be the only time something like this will happen. Enjoy all the time you spend with Yaz.

[Belle Noir]

I am so glad that he wasn't able to steal your dog. This is why the girls are not allowed to go dog walking without their uncle as a body guard.
I don't have to worry, because apparently at 5 foot 1, I am quite intimidating. I am told I have this mess with me and die aura, lol. But it's true, if someone tried to steal my dogs I would kill them.

For future reference, carry a big stick if you can, if you can't, the skin under the arm and inner thigh are VERY tender and if you pinch and twist there, it WILL hurt. Try it on your self, gently.. Then imagine doing it to someone else.

If someone is going to be that nervy to try to snatch your dog while you're holding the leash, and the attack you, you have every right to do your best to hurt them badly, I feel.

I agree, a thank you to those two heroes is called for. Thank goodness there are some people that were raised right and will step up to the plate when they have to. It's a shame they were the only ones. That others walked past, and did nothing is a sad state of affairs.