Sometimes I have to Wonder... Saturday Pet Blogger Hop

*Just an FYI- I wrote this post about 2 weeks ago, before Skye's major health scare.  However, while it is no longer top news, I think it is an important topic.   Happy Saturday!*


I wonder how the world got to be this backwards.  Lately there have been a few different stories about dogs being shot by the police in situations where it is doubtful that lethal force was necessary.  I just finished reading an article that you can find here.

Let me give you a summary- trust me, it's a short one.  Police arrive at a man's home for a random probation check.  When they knock, the man opens the door and two dogs rush out.  They run to a low wall that separates the officers from the dogs, and one of the dogs jumps up at the wall.  One officer takes out his pepper spray and sprays this dog in the eyes.  He then pulls out his gun and shoots the dog.  The owner then rushes the dog to the vet, where she dies in his arms.

Oh wait, did I say dog?  I mean PUPPY.  A 5 month old Bull Terrier puppy that weighed 12 lbs.  But of course that officer was justified in defending himself against this small pup that was behind a wall, silly me.

Can you tell I'm a little agitated by this story.  I'm not an overly patriotic person in general, although I also have no specific grievances with our government and laws.  But when the men and women who have sworn to protect our country, which includes me, are willing to whip out their guns to shoot a puppy, I have to wonder.  They are trained to handle drunks, drug dealers, riots, and crazies without using deadly force, yet the procedure for unruly dogs still seems to be "shoot first, ask questions later."

I can only hope that police departments all over the country are noticing this horrible trend as well, and they're planning to remedy the situation.  Education about dog behavior and bite prevention will go a long way in keeping our pets safe from law enforcement.  Knowing the difference between an excited/jumpy dog, a fearful dog that may sound tough but will run away, and a truly aggressive dog is critical if police officers want the public to settle down on the issue.

All I can think about is what would happen if the police showed up at my house for any reason.  Parker would start the barking, but Skye would certainly join in.  With the fenced in yard, we often just open the door and let them out to run a bit since they get so excited.  We live in a very old house, so the door is big and wooden and there aren't any windows for me to see it's the police.  So what would the officers do when a pit bull goes flying out the door with a barking maniac rabbit on her heels?  I doubt they'd be waiting with a treat for my little girl.

The Bad Rap Blog says it best.  If the police are there for any reason, put your dogs away first.  You have a reasonable amount of time to open the door to the police, so don't take any risks.  Especially with your puppies- cops are clearly terrified of them.


Now, on to some happy thoughts!  We spent the morning visiting my dad, and my pups are clearly back to normal.  In fact, Skye has learned a few "special" skills during her down time.

I can stick my tongue out thiiiiiiis far!

Sometimes chipmunks live under the ground!

But you can still chase them!

It just takes a little longer.

Thanks for hopping by!