Pint-sized Chihuahua helps save girl during pit bull attack, w/pic of bad ass Chihuahua

[The Straight Story]

An eight-year-old Chilliwack girl who survived a vicious pit bull attack last week may have a tiny Chihuahua to thank for her life.

Jenna, a Grade 3 student, was looking for bunnies outside her grandparents’ east Chilliwack home last Tuesday when a neighbour’s pit bull escaped its enclosure and attacked her.

The dog took her down at the knees and clamped its powerful jaws on her face — resulting in serious facial injuries and hundreds of stitches. That’s when Honey, a four-year-old Chihuahua owned by Jenna’s grandmother Anne Marie Desrochers, intervened.

The small dog barked at the larger animal, distracting the pit bull from Jenna. The pit bull released the girl and pursued and briefly caught Honey before heading back toward Jenna. The pit bull was then collared by its owner, who had witnessed much of the attack and whose entry into the enclosure had provided the brief moment necessary for her dog to escape.

http://www.vancouversun.com/life/Pint+sized+hero+helps+save+girl+during+bull+attack/8153495/story.html

[raccoon]

1. I expect Lassie herself couldn't have done better! nt

[alcibiades_mystery]

2. That wasn't a pit bull attack. A Nanny Dog (tm) was gently disciplining the child, a la Mary Poppins

A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down!

[SaveAmerica]

16. You're thinking about Katy Nana from Peter Pan

[JCMach1]

29. ROFL

[madokie]

3. My little sister was attacked by dogs when she was 6

our dad didn't say a thing, just took his shot gun down from about the door. got some shells, got in his old car drove up to where this happened and shot and killed the three dogs who did this. got back in the old car and drove away. The people who owned the dogs never said a word, never came out of the house.
Luckily my sister survived and is the assistant principle of our hometown high school where she taught math for 40 years looking to retire here in a couple years.

[michigandem58]

6. I'm a dog lover, and your Dad did the right thing

Some dogs just pose too large a threat. Can't imagine why the owners hadn't done it.

[madokie]

8. I love dogs too

I don't remember what kind of dogs they were as its been too long ago.

[hamsterjill]

54. I second that your dad did the right thing!

The problem with that, in today's world, would be that the people would simply go out and get more dogs, treat them badly, and end up with aggressive dogs.

It's not the DOGS that are the problem. It's the HUMANS who create these aggressive dog situations.

[madokie]

71. you are so very right

[michigandem58]

120. It's often mistreatment, but not always

There are plenty of instances of a family treating a pet just fine and it turns. Animlas are unpredictable. Like people, I suppose.

[hamsterjill]

131. Animals are as individual as humans.

Sometimes, the issues are well-meaning people who simply don't understand the needs, instincts and thresholds of the particular dog.

For example, I have a next door neighbor with a great big pit bull, and a little bitty back yard. Thankfully, the dog is not on a chain as is so very typical in our stupid city (San Antonio, Texas), BUT...this great big pit bull is never walked outside that tiny yard.

Big dogs need to have the opportunity to expend the great amount of energy that they have. The dog needs to be walked and exercised regularly.

At this point, the dog is as sweet as can be. But who can say how she will behave after years of pent up energy.

[malaise]

165. He was clearly a responsible gun owner

[pipoman]

4. Flame suit on..

38 U.S. fatal dog attacks occurred in 2012.2 Despite being regulated in Military Housing areas and over 600 U.S. cities,3 pit bulls contributed to 61% (23) of these deaths. Pit bulls make up less than 5% of the total U.S. dog population.4

Together, pit bulls (23) and rottweilers (3), the second most lethal dog breed, accounted for 68% of all fatal attacks in 2012. In the 8-year period from 2005 to 2012, this combination accounted for 73% (183) of the total recorded deaths (251).

The breakdown between pit bulls and rottweilers is substantial over this 8-year period. From 2005 to 2012, pit bulls killed 151 Americans, about one citizen every 19 days, versus rottweilers, which killed 32, about one citizen every 91 days.

Annual data from 2012 shows that 50% (19) of the victims were adults, 21-years and older, and the other half were children, ages 8-years and younger. Of the total children killed by dogs in 2012, 79% (15) were ages 2-years and younger.


http://www.dogsbite.org/dog-bite-statistics-fatalities-2012.php

Maybe we should think about that, eh?

[alcibiades_mystery]

5. Oh for Petey's sake!

Didn'tja ever see the Li'l Rascals?

[valerief]

13. I'm with you. Pit bulls remind me of big cats. WAY too unpredictable to own

in a residential home.

[gcomeau]

18. Yes maybe we should *think* about it.

As opposed to unthinkingly panic-reacting to it.

Pits are not "a violent breed". No breed is really "a violent breed". What pits are is big and powerful and unfortunately attract a certain type of *owner*.

It's all about how they're raised. I've known lots of pits and they're all big adorable sweethearts, but they were raised right. Look to the owner.

[evilhime]

39. thanks!!!!

That dogbite site has an agenda and skews their "facts" like any group that tries to prove a point that suits their thinking. My son was bitten at the age of 3 to the tune of 76 stitches in his face - the culprit was a west highland white terrier, small dog - as an adult he still has the scars. The only provocation he gave the dog was bending down to pick up his spoon. In animal rescue work we always said when a crazy dog walks into a shelter, look for the even crazier human at the other end of the leash. Good for the chihuahua for helping that child and bad on the owner of the dog that got loose to attack her - but do you condemn an entire race of people for the actions of some? Condemning a breed of dog is the same thing, a form of racism, IMO.

[ErikJ]

102. Careful hombre!!-u sayin some races of human were BRED for certain tasks like dog breeds?

Wow. Unbelievable.

[WinstonSmith4740]

40. Agreed.

I had a pibbie...that dog would have taken a bullet for my husband. They're smart, athletic, strong, and loyal...to the point they will do whatever their owner trains them to do. But they're also strong-willed and you have to work with them. I'll bet that dog spent his life chained up and muzzled. I understand the emotions in the wake of an attack, but that owner could have at least petitioned have sent that dog to some place like "Best Friends", with a sizable donation, of course. They were able to rehabilitate a lot of Michael Vick's dogs, and the ones they couldn't are kept in a separate part of the ranch so they'll be allowed to live out their lives. I hate to see any animal put down because their owners don't know what they're doing.

[ChisolmTrailDem]

83. Some men (in my experience, rednecks) don't feel their

manhood is complete without a pit bull.

And even then it isn't.

[pipoman]

94. This is the way I see this issue and the gun control issue..

same issue different tools..

[gcomeau]

95. No. Dogs aren't "tools".

There is no comparing a hunk of specially purpose-crafted metal created to perform a soecific highly specialized function and a sentient animal.

[pipoman]

96. So we shouldn't concentrate on the dog

responsible for the lion's share of mayhem but instead concentrate on the owners...yet we should concentrate on guns and not the owners?

[gcomeau]

97. What the hell do you think

...gun regulations actually apply to? Do you think the GUNS have to pass background checks?

This "guns don't shoot people" spiel from the pro gun crowd is mind numbingly idiotic. Nobody on the face of the fucking PLANET is unaware that people pull the triggers or are writing regulations while unaware of that.


That said, I repeat. THERE IS NO COMPARING guns and dogs.

[pipoman]

98. LOL

[michigandem58]

121. Biggest pit bull myth going

"If they're raised right, they aren't dangerous." Not true at all.

[gcomeau]

135. Ahem.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=2579004

Bullshit.

[michigandem58]

137. Pits are most likely to kill and maim

Arbitrary studies trying to estimate agression don't always reflect real world results.

[gcomeau]

140. Congratulations. Totally ignore the actual scientific study and stick to your guns!

That's an admirable level of invincible ignorance.

Do you not understand what it means when people explain to you using simple words the difference between an attack being caused by it *being a specific breed of dog* and the attack being caused by it being *a specific type of owner* that just happens to prefer a specific breed of dog?

[Floyd_Gondolli]

155. Ah yes

The "if you don't agree with me you're ignorant" doo-dah.

Tried and true it is.

[gcomeau]

156. Pay attention.

It was the "if you ignore the scientific studies that say you're wrong and provide no good reason for doing so you're *intentionally* ignorant"... doo-dah.

[Floyd_Gondolli]

161. Ah yes

The "if you don't agree with me you're not paying attention" doo-dah.

Yawn.

[gcomeau]

163. Oh look, another one of you.

Specifically told there were scientific studies backing one side of the issue (which was linked upthread FYI)... mentally block it out and pretend you never saw that said, then repeat yourself.

Intentional ignorance seems to be popular in this discussion.

[Gravitycollapse]

124. This is inherently wrong. Certain breeds of dogs are in fact more violent.

As they were bred to express that trait.

This is true for many animals.

[gcomeau]

134. To a degree.

However Pit Bulls are NOT in the more aggressive (as far as "more aggressive" even goes, which isn't actually all that far) group among dog breeds.

They are in fact *below* average for aggression towards people when factors of training and environment are properly controlled for.

http://www.greyhoundpets.org.au/publications/ResearchArticleWhichBreedsareMostAggressive.pdf



That black line is the mean across all breeds studied.

The "highly" aggressive breeds were daschunds... terriers... beagles... chihuahuas... but nobody give a crap because they're small and cute and generally not scary. I have a beagle, I love beagles, but yeah they've got a higher tendency to get bitey and you have to watch it IN THEIR TRAINING.

It's almost *all* down to training and owner conduct.

http://www.upenn.edu/pennnews/news/if-youre-aggressive-your-dog-will-be-too-says-veterinary-study-university-pennsylvania


Pits are above average for aggression towards other dogs, but again "above average" isn't all that significant a value here and AGAIN, it all comes down to training. This "Pits are an inherently dangerous breed" stuff is 100% pure *myth*. Pit owners have a tendency to be dangerous dog owners, because they pick pits because they look big and scary and then they MAKE them aggressive.

[Marrah_G]

128. And THAT is the problem

Anyone can go on craigslist and buy a cute little puppy that unless it is trained properly can become a very big dog capable of killing.

There has got to be a way to regulate breeding, selling and purchasing of these animals.

If you buy a big breed, especially those breeds that we already know can be aggressive, you should be required by law to train it and to take a course in ownership and responsibility.

[gcomeau]

133. Indeed. -nt

[joeglow3]

138. Kind of like guns

Guns, by themself are not violent. No inanimate object by itself is "violent." In the hands of good people, there is no issue. What guns are is big and powerful and unfortunately attract a certain type of "owner."

Its all about how they are used. I know lots of guns and they are all safely stored and no risk, but they were respected right. Look to the owner.

[gcomeau]

139. No, not kind of like guns. Not even a tiny bit.

First, because people actually blame the dogs here, and NOBODY ON PLANET EARTH thinks guns actually shoot themselves or writes regulations with that assumption. Onlt the NRA pretends people do that so they can play "let's knock down the strawman".

Second, because comparing sentient animals and purpose crafted inanimate objects made for a highly specific purpose is ridiculous.

[joeglow3]

141. My aunts' neighbor my disagree. Her 3 year old had his penis torn off by a pit bull

But, its the owner and not the animal.

[gcomeau]

142. Explain, exactly...

...why the eye rolling smilie at the end of that sentence belongs there.

Go ahead. I'll wait.

[joeglow3]

143. Easy, it is a bull shit argument

Too often, I have heard people say "he was such a sweet dog. no one saw this coming."

Can you explain why pit bulls make up such a small percentage of the overall dog population, but make up such a HUGE percentage of fatal attacks?

[gcomeau]

146. Can and have explained. Lots. In this thread.

Apparently you've ignored it completely.

None of that however explains the presence of your little eye roller.

[joeglow3]

147. Didn't think it to be some great mystery

If you can't figure it out, I doubt any amount of explaining will work.

[gcomeau]

149. Oh *I* know why it's there.

Because you cluelessly think "this breed bit" = "cause of biting IS THE BREED".

And you continue to think that in the face of all evidence to the contrary.

I was hoping against hope that by asking you to explain yoursrlf you might engage your mind in an exercise actually thinking through your position and realize that. You appear uninterested in participating in that particular exercise however.

[joeglow3]

150. So, if EVERY pit bull in the world disappeared...

...you think there would be no noticeable change in dog attack fatalities?

[gcomeau]

151. That's right.

Because the dumbass owners who influence or even deliberately train their dogs aggressive would simply pick a new favorite breed.

And then people would start screeching about how "inherently dangerous" that breed was.

Is this really so difficult to comprehend?

[joeglow3]

152. I really wish I could believe that

I disagree and believe these people buy these dogs for a reason, and not the other way around.

[gcomeau]

153. Rigorous scientific studies say so. What's stopping you?

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=2579004

You disagree based on *what* exactly? Gut feeling? Hearsay? Anecdotal accounts?

[sinkingfeeling]

19. Kinda of odd since there is no 'pit bull' breed.

[The Straight Story]

47. True, original intent was:

I was looking for stories for our new group:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=forum&id=1267

And came across this one while searching for stories. It is more about the Chihuahua than pit bulls.

But then, I (and others), have posted stories about pit bulls before so can understand why some took it to be about that and not the other dog.

[sinkingfeeling]

48. Yep, I'll give a medal to the little Chihuahua. I just can't understand

how so many people will blame the 'pit bull' and not the owner of the 'pit bull'.

[laundry_queen]

61. In this particular case the owner was pretty careful

according to the news last night, the owner never let the dog out of the yard without a leash and muzzle. This was one of those freak instances when a dog sneaks out (BTDT with the large breed dogs I've owned in the past) and to the owner's horror, the dog does the unthinkable. I'm not sure the owner was to blame in this instance. Apparently the owner was devastated and voluntarily had the dog put down.

[pnwmom]

110. Why would someone own a dog that was known to be vicious?

If that dog had already bitten a non-violent human, he should have been put down.

[laundry_queen]

111. It wasn't known to be vicious

But the owner was cognizant of a pit bull's reputation and was trying to protect himself against the dog ever showing the least bit of aggression. In some places, it's also the law. My old neighbors had 2 pit bulls and he muzzled them every time he took them for a walk. It's been recommended as a protection for the OWNER, in case some people get hysterical about being in the company of a pit bull who is barking or doing something that could be mistaken as aggression. My neighbor's dogs were never anything but friendly, but they still wore that muzzle. From what I understand, that was the case here as well.

[pnwmom]

113. The mother of the attacked girl said it was known to be vicious. Do you not believe her?

"She noted the dog’s owners acknowledged its danger and kept it muzzled and harnessed when outside its enclosure.

'We always knew it was a really vicious dog,' Leslie said. 'Jenna knew to stay away from the fence.'



Read more: http://www.chilliwacktimes.com/life/Pint+sized+hero+helps+save+girl+during+bull+attack/8152177/story.html#ixzz2OoRGDpMv

[laundry_queen]

126. The grandparents, interviewed on tv, said the owners reassured them

the dog would never attack a child. Why the snark? They had a lengthy interview with the grandparents, who were the ones there during the attack and who are the ones who live next door to the owner of the pit bull. When I saw the tv program, they had not shown the mother at all. From what I understand, the mother wasn't there. Plus, as I read the article, it sounds like they were prejudging the dog because it was a pit bull, not that the dog was 'known' to be vicious. A lot of people are wary of pit bulls and would say 'we always thought it was vicious' once something happened because that is what most people think of EVERY pit bull. I used to tell my kids to stay away from my neighbor's pit bulls and not to stick their finger through the fence, even though those dogs had never been vicious before. My neighbors 'acknowleged' the dogs were 'dangerous' by putting a muzzle on their 2 dogs when taking them for a walk? I don't think that's what my neighbors thought, but someone who was fearful of pit bulls in general might use that wording. I disagree that the mom's comments mean the dog was 'known' to be vicious. Had it bitten someone before or shown a lot of aggressive behavior? Or was the mom simply fearful because the dog was a pit bull. The article makes it sound like the latter not the former.

Look, I'm personally not a fan of pit bulls, and I think they do have a tendency to be very unpredictable, and WOW are they powerful dogs (my neighbor's dog nearly knocked me over just looking for an ear scratch - and he wasn't a 'big' pit bull), but I don't think this owner was some kind of horrible owner who made the dog dangerous. I think the breed is unpredictable and previously, seemingly 'loving' and 'calm' pits can turn on a dime. However, when a dog snaps, it's not always because of some irresponsible owner. Sometimes shit happens, which is why I'd never own a pit bull. I had a hard enough time with a large breed dog who tried to 'play' with my neighbor's cat after sneaking out the front door when I was answering it. Was I a horrible owner because the dog snuck out and chased a cat? I don't think so. I tried to keep him in but he was a sly, strong, quick little turd. It happens. It's unfortunate those people had a breed that attacked a child instead of chased a cat. They did the right thing by having the dog euthanized.

[whopis01]

123. Isn't there a logical disconnect there?

When a dog does something good, it is the dog that is responsible. However when the dog does something bad it is the owner who is to blame.

Why not award the medal to the owner of the chihuahua?

I agree that the owner of a dog bears the responsibly for the dog's actions and how the dog is raised is the major influence in its behavior.

[pnwmom]

109. There is no AKC pit bull breed and there is no AKC labradoodle breed.

But that doesn't mean there are no pit bulls and there are no labradoodles.

[baldguy]

90. DogsBite.org is full of lies & deliberate misinformation.

It's run by lawyers who make their money by suing people who own dogs.

[bunnies]

7. A toddler in my neighborhood was recently attacked by a pit...

I was just talking to his parents yesterday. Poor thing is only 18 mos old. Just playing at the park when the dog charged him from nowhere.

There are two that run around unleashed all the time here but even on the leash theyre aggressive. I blame the owner.

[yankeepants]

9. Carry pepper spray or a product called Halt

I am a dog trainer and have witnessed a couple of Pit bull attacks during the years. There is no way to get them to release bare handed if they are intent (and they tend to be).

I have had success with Halt sprayed directly into the nose or eyes. It doesn't do permanent harm but gets you or your dog out of their grip.

[bunnies]

17. Thanks for the advice.

I'll definitely pick some up. I have a little bichon and I cant imagine what they would do to her. We encountered them on leashes with their owner who could barely hold them back. Growling & lunging & showing their teeth. He said "oh its fine, they're just puppies". Two days later they're running around unsupervised growling at people on the block. I even had one lady run out of her house when she saw me walking my Bean down the street just to warn me that the dogs were out chasing people and animals. We've had to change our walk route but we live right near them so theres really no avoiding the dogs.

The father of the child who was being attacked had to hit the dog with a rock to get it off his son. Barely phased the dog but he was able to get the baby away.

I really don't get it because I've met some pits that were of the sweetest dogs I've known. These two around me though... they're going to kill somebody.

[magical thyme]

30. that's such a pity. their owner has no business having any animal

least of all any big, strong dog. Those dogs will injure somebody someday, and then be killed, all thanks to an ignorant person. People like that ruin things for *everybody.*

I remember once at the dog park I used to frequent, some idiot started bringing his unsocialized dog. His dog attacked mine twice, without any provocation, the 2nd time jumping on him from behind. His owner just stood there and said, "Oh, he's just being a dog." Each time, my boy defended himself, drove the other dog off and then turned his back and walked away.

Everybody else caught on quickly, and as soon as he arrived, we'd quietly leash up and leave. Eventually he figured out that his unsocialized, aggressive dog was unwelcome, and stopped coming.

[valerief]

12. I blame elected officials for permitting ownership of these dogs that are bred to be vicious. nt

[A Simple Game]

43. Pit bulls weren't bred to be vicious. They were bred to be strong.

They are trained to be viscous.

Pit bulls are naturally very loving dogs. I've had two and they were as nice and friendly as any dog I have ever owned.

I have never been bitten or attacked by a Pit, I have been bitten and attacked by Chihuahuas. So I say lets ban all Chihuahuas because they are so territorial that they are a danger to any stranger that enters their area.

[barbtries]

10. she reminds me of my own

little Chase


what a horrifying experience for all involved.

[valerief]

11. Put the pit bull owner in prison and every elected official in the city who permits

pit bull ownership.

[sinkingfeeling]

20. Bull! Haven't you read about the 'Victory' dogs? Animals respond to

how they are treated.

http://blogs.bestfriends.org/index.php/2013/03/12/vicktory-dog-reunion/

[Fawke Em]

35. Right after we put idiot dog-blamers in prison

for not knowing that the owner is at fault.

[valerief]

84. Not until we put name-calling idiots on alert first.

BTW, it's apparently a community standard to call each other idiots since your post was voted to not be hidden.

[Lucky Luciano]

14. Screw all the pitbull haters. I just adopted one from the shelter yesterday.

She will be loved and adored and will be the eventual best friend if my nine month old boy.

[sinkingfeeling]

22. +1000

[Arkansas Granny]

25. I hope it works out well for you and that you'll never have reason to regret your decision.

Personally, from the dogs I've met and have known over the years, I would never trust that breed around small children or other animals. I've met some that seemed to be sweet and lovable and I've met some that I wouldn't turn my back on. YMMV.

[laundry_queen]

65. I wouldn't trust ANY large breed around small kids

My brother has a lab and I watch her like a hawk when my kids are playing with her, despite her being a great big teddy bear who is very tolerant of small kids. I don't trust any big dog. I don't really trust medium sized dogs either. I didn't trust my maltese/cockapoo cross when I had new babies, and he was seriously the most mellow, laid back dog on the face of the earth. Dogs are animals, and you can't reason with them. They still act on instinct a lot of the time. It's best to just assume they have the capacity to attack and plan accordingly. It would really stop a lot of attacks if owners stopped thinking their dog would NEVER do THAT. LOL, that reminds me, my aunt shows and breeds huskies and she had her 'prize' dog who won all kinds of shows and obedience trials. My uncle and aunt went on and on about how they took the dog hunting and NEVER put her on a leash, and that she would NEVER take off on them. Ooops, one time, while on a walk in the woods, the dog spotted an animal and was gone. They didn't see the dog for a week. My aunt NEVER thought HER dog would EVER do THAT. Well, guess what? It's a DOG, they do stupid shit all of the time. It's up to the human to assume that the dog isn't another human when it comes to behavior.

[smirkymonkey]

159. My family has had labs and golden retreivers and raised them with their

small children and the dogs have never shown the slightest bit of aggressiveness. Maybe that is because they got them from good, responsible breeders.

The kids have done everything to those dogs from learning how to walk by pulling themselves up by pulling on the dogs' tails to mauling the dogs with playful rough-housing, but the dogs have never, ever shown any signs of aggression toward the children.

Maybe it depends on whether you get the dog from a good breeder or a pet store. But we have never had an aggressive retriever in our family ever.

[laundry_queen]

160. I was bitten by one as a child

so maybe I'm extra cautious. It wasn't a horrible bite either, just a nip, but I was only 5 years old or so. Also, I've seen a dog who was previously wonderful with kids, never one itty bitty sign of ANY aggression (my grandfather would've had him put down if he did - he didn't tolerate aggressive dogs on his farm because those were the kind that ate his chickens) turn on an adult and mauled his face because he got old and was in pain and the adult grabbed him from behind and hurt him accidently. Luckily for the dog, my grandfather was dead by then and my uncle let the dog live (it was my other uncle who was mauled and he didn't press the issue despite hundreds of stitches).

I think it's naive to assume that dogs only turn because of bloodlines or how they are raised. Sometimes it's just circumstance and instinct. My brother's lab has never shown one iota of aggression, but I'm not going to assume she never will. My small daughter also was pretty rough with my brother's lab (with me close by) and the dog seems to actually enjoy it. Still, I'm always aware that it's a DOG. Retrievers can be aggressive as much as any other dog (I think Goldens are pretty high up on the bite list). I hope that your nonchalant attitude doesn't come back to, um, pardon the pun, bite you in the ass.

[smirkymonkey]

164. I am so sorry for your experience and in no way did I mean

to underestimate the pain you went through. I just meant to say that in my experience that I have found that the Lab and Golden Retrievers that we have had in our family have been extremely docile and non-violent.

Please accept my apology. I am sorry for what you what you went through as a child.

[smirkymonkey]

167. I am so sorry for your experiece.

Really, I am. I just don't think that retrievers are very violent generally. They are usully very gentle dogs.

[Marrah_G]

129. Will you be taking some training classes?

[Lucky Luciano]

132. I am well trained by my previous pit.

We were very careful about our selection. We were most concerned about a dog that jumps a lot while not knowing her strength near my child. She is very calm and does not jump much at all. She is totally unprotective of toys and releases a toy from her mouth without fuss if I grab the toy from her. Her reaction to other dogs is good and she does not try to be dominant. I have also since observed that while walking other dogs may show aggressive behavior to her that she ignores as we continue walking. I acknowledge this by telling her what a good girl she is.

It was a careful selection. I would have loved to take a dog that may have needed more training in these areas, but not with my baby son nearby. The main fear with many of the dogs there is just jumping and accidental injuries from not realizing their strength or how sharp their claws are. Many many dogs were very adoptable if that is not a concern.

[Marrah_G]

136. Sounds like a good dog with a good owner :)

[LibGranny]

15. My grandson's dog was killed by a pitbull

who had escaped from his enclosure. The little pug was in his yard when attacked by the bully and when someone notified my son of the attack, he got his handgun and went out and killed the bully! No comments (or apologies) from the pit bull's owners. This dog had nearly attacked a woman who was babysitting for the owner but she distracted it by throwing it some food and shutting the door on the dog. I also have a dear friend who had her mixed breed pit bull put down due to biting. There is no safe pit bull - I don't care what all their owners say! They should all be put down!

[kestrel91316]

60. Nonsense. A properly raised and trained pit bull can be a wonderful pet.

They were my favorite breed to work on when I still treated dogs. Very gentle, friendly, and accepting of whatever their vet wanted to do, no matter how painful.

That said, I would never trust one that hadn't been in competent hands from the time it was weaned. I'd worry about bad behavior resurfacing with the wrong stimulus.

The breed that scared me the most was Rottweilers, because I never met one properly trained or with a responsible owner. They typically made threatening noises in the exam room without provocation.

[LibGranny]

72. No nonsense about it - my grandson's little pug was killed by the pitbull and

you can daily hear stories about this vicious breed! Nobody can train the owners to be responsible so how do you keep these dogs out of their hands?

[backwoodsbob]

74. that's all good

so lets make it a law that any attack by any dog will be considered an act by the owner.

If a dog tries to kill someone the owner gets charged with attempted murder...if the dog succeeds the owner gets charged with murder

[Marrah_G]

130. The properly trained part is the problem

Most people don't. They don't make the effort or take the time to learn about their particular breeds.

They bring hope cute little puppy that grows into great big dog, do minimal training and treat them like a human child. Then they look shocked when their baby hurts someone.

We have a Malamute, she is now almost two and he training is continual. We are always aware that she can never think she is above a human in the pecking order of things. She is a wonderful dog, almost perfect really, but we all know that unless we are diligent and consistent she could easily kill someone.

[valerief]

69. You're right. They're too unpredictable to be safe. Like keeping a tiger as a pet. nt

[99Forever]

21. Pit bull owners and gun nuts.

Two of a kind.

[sinkingfeeling]

23. Which have nothing to do with the breed of the dog.

[99Forever]

27. The same mentality has everything to do with it.

"I want what I want, when I want it and I care fuckall about how much danger it poses to other people. IGOTSARIGHT!!!"

[sinkingfeeling]

46. That's people, not the dogs.

[99Forever]

52. A distinction without a difference.

The exact same mentality that gun nuts have, AS I said in my first response. We have gone full circle.

[sinkingfeeling]

53. As I said your quote about mentality has nothing to do with dog breeds.

[SunSeeker]

106. Exactly. Many people buy pit bulls to use as weapons. It's sick. nt

[ronnie624]

55. The dogs too.

So called 'pit bulls' are selectively bred for their aggressiveness, strength and tenacity. It's what makes them more of a threat than other breeds, and why they are responsible for the majority of life-threatening dog attacks. Solid statistics and the simple logic behind dog breeding demonstrate this conclusively.

It's interesting how people can convince themselves of all kinds of nonsense, even in the face of cold, hard facts and simple logic.

[subject]

58. philosophically speaking, nature vs. nurture argument taken full course concludes

that it is a delicate balance of asshole between both the pitbull breed and the dipshit who owns it.

[sinkingfeeling]

59. Tell it to the Victory dog owners.

[ronnie624]

64. I probably would if they were nearby.

I don't think I would find their anecdotes any more convincing than the ones I read here, especially after considering the statistics on dog attacks.

[Lucky Luciano]

57. Yes comparing cold steel to loving animals. Very fair. nt

[99Forever]

62. Sure, and the ripped and mangled flesh of children and...

... other peoples INNOCENT pets is very "fair."

[Lucky Luciano]

67. What you are so terrified of is a very low probability event that is the result of a bad owner.

Here in NYC, everyone wanted to come say hi to my last pit bull that passed away six months ago. She was so gorgeous, affectionate, and athletic - I ran with her in Central Park all the time.

The only people that were afraid we're often those from the poor neighborhoods and I guess that is where all of the dogfighting scumbags live - they are the ones who should be executed before the poor dogs.

[99Forever]

70. Hogwash.

Same stupid fucking trash that comes from gun nuts.

You are ALL, "good, law abiding, responsible" until you aren't, then your "loving pet" mangles someone elses child or pet. Not buying your crap, even a little.

And btw, we have a Kennel License and 5 dogs, 3 of which are French Bulldogs.

[Lucky Luciano]

73. Guns don't love. Dogs do.

[99Forever]

75. Non sequitur.

The problem isn't "loving," it's wounding, maiming, mutilating and killing.

[Adsos Letter]

76. +1000 n/t

[Lucky Luciano]

79. All loving dogs have the right to life. nt

[99Forever]

80. Nonsense.

People have rights. Animals are property.

Dogs are not people. What a insanely silly argument.

[Lucky Luciano]

81. No you are just cruel. nt

[99Forever]

82. Another non sequitur.

Show me a single reference to animals having ANY rights in the Constitution. Just one.

"Cruel," my ass. The REAL cruelty is the huge amount of physical mutilation, severe words, PERMANENT disfigurations, and deaths caused by this one subset of dogs. Pit bulls are a bane on dog owners and dog lovers everywhere.

[Lucky Luciano]

85. You disgust me beyond words.

I will continue to enjoy the many people who love to meet my new dog as I walk her. Most people are not as insane as your hateful soul is.

Done with this. Got better things to do.

[99Forever]

87. That's the best you've got?

Silly, juvenile, personal vindictives?



Not surprising actually. That's about level most Pit Bull apologists operate at.

[Doremus]

92. Your ad hominem attack below was hidden so I can't respond to it.

But my question remains:

What "subset" of dogs are you referring to? The question has nothing to do with semantics. You claim there is a "pitbull subset" and there is no such thing.

Either clarify your answer with a specific breed name or take your incredibly ignorant argument and STFU.

[Doremus]

88. Ridiculous argument.

"...this one subset of dogs..."

Which subset would that be, 99Forever?

Enlighten us all.

[dawg]

24. There is no dog more fierce ...

than a Chihuahua. Thank God they are so small.

[firenewt]

34. Small but fierce. I've always thought a pack of attack trained Chihuahuas would be terrifying.

Strip you of flesh from the knees down. God forbid if you tripped................

[kestrel91316]

63. They are like little piranhas, lol. When I pass one on the sidewalk I move my fingers out of reach

because I've had one too many nip at me as I pass with no provocation.

I did know one chihuahua years ago who was a perfect gentleman, always calm and obedient, never excited. He was like my Great Pyrenees in demeanor, but in miniature form. He was highly atypical.

[get the red out]

77. My neighbors' Chihuahua is like that

He's one of the best dogs I've ever seen. To sit on their back porch is to immediately have a small tan dog in our lap looking for love.

[RebelOne]

91. You are so right. I have a 4-year-old female Chihuahua.

She is a holy terror and will attack anyone who comes into my house. I always have to lock her in another room whenever anyone comes to the door. I have owned 2 pit bulls and 2 Rottweilers and none of them were aggressive toward humans, but the pit bulls and one of the Rotties hated cats and would chase them.

[pnwmom]

114. But they ARE so small. So they can't do the damage an aggressive pit bull could do.n/t

[NoGOPZone]

145. indeed. those sharp teeth can do some harm too, nt

[RebelOne]

157. They sure can.

You should see what my Chihuahua did to my son's hand when he tried to pick her up after terrorizing her.

[quinnox]

26. a quick google news search shows these "lovable" and gentle dogs have been busy attacking people

recently -

Second Tulsa Woman Attacked By Pit Bull Recounts Mauling
http://www.newson6.com/story/21802325/second-woman-attacked-by-pit-bull-recounts-mauling
Mar 26, 2013 7:21 PM PDT

Man Kills Pit Bull With Pocketknife During Attack
http://sanbruno.patch.com/articles/man-kills-pit-bull-with-pocketknife-during-attack
Friday, March 22

Man Injured In Pit Bull Attack Friday Night In Raymond, NH
March 23, 2013 12:55 PM
http://boston.cbslocal.com/2013/03/23/man-injured-in-pit-bull-attack-friday-night-in-raymond-nh/

San Jacinto Woman Relates Story Of Near Fatal Pit Bull Attack
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/03/22/san-jacinto-woman-relates-story-of-near-fatal-pit-bull-attack/
March 22, 2013 6:50 PM

Curious girl opens door, attacked by Utah man’s pit bull
Injuries » 11-year-old faces plastic surgery; dog to be euthanized.
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/56057402-78/dog-girl-bull-door.html.csp
Mar 25 2013 09:02 am

Aunt of pitbull attack victim makes emotional plea
http://www.itv.com/news/update/2013-03-27/aunt-of-pitbull-attack-victim-makes-emotional-plea/
The aunt of a four-year-old boy who died after suffering "massive injuries" inflicted by a pitbull has posted an emotional message on Jade Anderson’s Facebook page.
Wed 27 Mar 2013

Numerous pit bull attacks prompt insurance coverage change in California
March 27, 2013
A southern California woman suffered severe puncture wounds earlier this month during an attack by a pit bull. Neighbors heard the woman screaming and came to her rescue with baseball bats. Pit bulls were also to blame for the deaths of two California women in February and for an attack on a horse and its rider earlier this year.

According to dogsbite.org, there were 38 fatal dog attacks in the United States last year, a rate of one death every 19 days. Certain breeds of dogs are to blame for a majority of those deaths and a California insurance company is making policy coverage changes, exempting a few breeds from homeowner insurance policies. Farmers Group, Inc. no longer covers dog bites from the following dog breeds:

-Pit bulls

-Rottweilers

-Wolf hybrids

http://world.einnews.com/247pr/336962


_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

That is just news reports on the last couple pages, there are plenty more. What adorable and non-threatening dogs, though.

[Blue Palasky]

28. why are pit bull owners so prone to chomping on people's faces?

where does that behavior come from?

[get the red out]

31. Irresponsible people

Irresponsible people are attracted to the image of the "Pit Bull". They also are less likely to spay and neuter their dogs, thinking they can make a quick buck; they aren't the best dog breeders needless to say.

There are great people that have very nice Pit Bulls; but a lot of criminals seem drawn to Pit Bulls. That's a sad thing and it doesn't produce nice dogs.

[Demeter]

32. Jesus God!

I hope that vicious dog was destroyed. And its owner sued for the entirety of his wealth.

[Fawke Em]

33. I have a bad-ass Chihuahua who thinks he's REALLY

chasing our Golden Retriever down the deck steps when we let her out to do her business.

[The Straight Story]

36. I think dog bravery is inversely proportional to their size :) (nt)

[redqueen]

37. Aw, I love Chis.

Thanks for posting this.

[leftyladyfrommo]

38. chihauhaus are really gutsy.

It's a good thing they only weight about 10 pounds or they would be dangerous.

A woman I know was attacked while walking her little maltese. A young woman was walking her two dogs and the dogs took off after the maltese. She was not strong enough to hold them. The dogs ran into my friend and knocked her down. She broke her hip. Her dog was OK.

The woman walking the two dogs at least waited around until they got help and then she and her dogs disappeared.

I am a professional dog sitter and I won't take dogs more than about 40 pounds. And I won't walk more than one at a time. It is unbelievable how strong some dogs are. Too dangerous to walk the big ones. They can pull 2,000 pounds or more and are impossible to hold if they really get going after something. All of the bully breeds are very strong.

[Harriety]

41. What a "Honey" of a little dog.

[Fredfon]

42. Yeah yeah yeah-Pit bulls are wonderful!

Until they're not.

NO reason to have one.

[Ash_F]

44. I wonder if the pit had been neutered. Probably not. /nt

[warrior1]

45. It's like that almost

have the same expression. Please this little brave heart-ed dog.

[bluedigger]

49. Pit bull bigotry.

No different than saying all blacks are lazy or all Mexicans are thieves. My personal anecdote is that the only dog that ever bit me was a German Shepherd. I love German Shepherds.

[The Straight Story]

50. Wait, where is the bigotry?

Not on my part I hope. Moving in with my son this weekend and he has one (and three little kids) and I, and my daughter will be around it (it sleeps with me when I am over there on the weekends and such already).

[bluedigger]

51. It wasn't directed against you personally.

But many of the above responses. You could have made such a comment with your OP to better clarify your opinion and intent in posting.

[Gravitycollapse]

125. If you misappropriate words and metaphors, they become meaningless.

[bluedigger]

127. One of my favorites is "non sequitur"...

[Whiskeytide]

56. I would never own a pitbull...

... They're too strong, and too well built for a fight. I have owned dogs my entire life. I loved everyone of them with all my heart, and they seemed completely devoted to me, flaws and all. But I would be afraid I couldn't properly control a PB. And I would be mortified if an animal I owned seriously hurt someone.

It seems to me that the very quality most PB owners most frequently tout about these dogs - loyalty - is the quality that often gets the animal in trouble. They seem ready to attack any perceived threat, whether they have correctly identified a threat, or are actually mistaking a child or another dog as a threat. And their fierce loyalty propels them to completely and utterly neutralize the threat. Big, strong dogs with a highly evolved protective instinct and an inclination to destroy threats with extreme prejudice??? .... Not for me.

Then again, I also don't - and wouldn't - own an assault weapon. I'm not anti-gun (I think of myself as pro smart gun laws). But such a weapon is simply too much responsibility. I don't want to be worried about where my assault weapon is and what its doing 24/7. I'd be afraid it would get loose and hurt someone, maybe even someone in my own family, and I just couldn't bear that remorse. Not really the gun's fault - its just a piece of equipment, but its simply not for me.

I know, I know... those who do own assault weapons would say that if I would just go down to the gun shop and adopt an assault weapon, play with it, get to know it, I would discover what a great weapon it really is. Maybe that's true, but its just not for me. One less thing, you know?

[toby jo]

66. The first pit I met was on the backside of a racetrack in '81 down in FL

The owner was a card shark, and kind of scuzzy, and I will never forget the look in his eyes while he was explaining that THIS breed of dog was special. That they had an ability to lock down on you with jaws that would not ever, ever give out. It's a pit bull, he said. He kind of had that slightly psychotic 'I've got mine' look in his eyes, and thought he had it all over us.

Poor dog.

Any vet will tell you that the majority of dog bites come from small dogs in this country. They are by far the more vicious breed. Thing is, those bites don't kill.

[michigandem58]

122. Pits bite to kill and maim

small dogs usually bite out of fear. But you're right, small dogs don't do the same damage.

[Demo_Chris]

68. The most frightening thing about Pits is their owners...

The ones who rush to post that their breed is no different than any other, thus proving in a single line that they do not understand what they own and have no business owning it.

[appleannie1]

78. That looks like Sam, my Peagle. Peke/Beagle mix. The faces are almost identicle

[LiberalFighter]

86. I'm guessing that pint size Chihuahua weighs at least 9 lbs.

Honey is probably very sweet around those she knows and protective against those she doesn't. She is sweet looking.

I've fostered quite a few Chihuahuas and they have all been mostly well behaved around me. And they all quickly adjusted when they were adopted. Every one of them have slept in bed with me and my girls.

[HeiressofBickworth]

93. My dog story

When I was about 12, we obtained a Boxer. The neighbor who owned it was a violent man, beat his wife and kids and did the same to the dog. So one could say we "rescued" her. There wasn't much we could do about their family life as this was before domestic violence became a situation requiring legal protection. I think my parents thought that if we took the dog, one source of irritation would be gone.

When Ginger came to us, in our house, she was loving, obedient and tolerant. She was a huge thing. When we would all sit on the couch to watch TV, she would lie across all of our laps. She loved tummy rubs and would flip on her back at the slightest hint that she might get one. My sister was just beginning to crawl at the time and Ginger was extraordinarily tolerant of being sat upon, poked in every manner, disrupted while she ate. Every night, just like clock-work, she would go down the hall, walk into each bedroom, sniff around the bed, checking on each of us kids.

HOWEVER,

She became so over-protective, we were unable to have people come to the house. She would growl, bare her teeth and lunge at anyone who came to the door. One time, I recall vividly, my mother had the Flu and was lying on the couch. The neighbor brought over a bowl of soup. When she knocked on the door, Mother called out "come in". When the neighbor opened the door, Ginger had her by the throat and on the ground until we could pull her off. Ginger went into a frenzy every time the garbage was picked up at the curb. One time, Mother got her a bone from the butcher. It was in the back yard which was fenced. Somehow, a little dog got in the back yard and had her bone. Ginger took a running start and blasted through the closed sliding glass door -- and didn't get hurt.

It was hard to know how to discipline her as she was such a good dog -- inside the house. I remember my parents discussing what was to be done about Ginger as she presented such a liability that one day someone would sue. Eventually, events resolved the issue before action could be taken about her. Whenever she was in the back yard, she was on a chain -- we found out early that she was able to take a six-foot fence in a single bound. One day, she took that leap, however, her chain got caught on her dog house and she was hung. It was the only time in my life I ever saw my father cry.

[Hekate]

99. Look at that little girl's face: sad, scared, scarred

I can see the stitches on her eyelid, and the article says she has hundreds more stitches from her injuries. She could have been blinded or killed.

My heart goes out to her. I was jumped by a German Shepherd when I was 4 years old. There seemed to be one named "Sarge" in every neighborhood when I was growing up, and my memory is that they were all aggressive.

This is what it feels like, when you are a little kid, and I was not even bitten: I was crossing the street to share my new toys with a little friend, and a creature as big as a lion roared at me and knocked me down at a full run. It had big teeth. I screamed like a banshee, and my parents and various neighbors came running and pulled the dog off me.

The aftereffects were that I was phobic to all strange dogs for the next 15 years, until I absolutely forced myself not to be.

In my adult life I have owned dogs, raised puppies, have a young poodle/Lhasa Apso mix now who is a sweetheart and too smart for her own good. But I am very clear on what kind of breeds or mixed breeds I want in my house. (The "Lab mix" that turned out to be a Dobie mix was a real mistake, but we sheltered her off and on her whole life because she was our son's. But that dog lived a very restricted life because of her behavior problems.)

A woman who used to clean house for us had a scarred face from a dog attack when she was a child, and we always had to put our Dobie mix away when she came over. My husband thought he could get her used to it, but I made him stop -- I knew all to well that she was terrified.

If someone wants to own a breed with aggressive tendencies, especially one that has been trained to use its aggression for whatever reason (all those "Sarges" were alleged to be retired police or military dogs), it behooves the owner to keep vigilance at all times. No fucking excuses.

[defacto7]

100. An awful lot of posts in a couple of threads keep on repeating

the same thing over and over as if it's the fact. They are calling their Pit Bulls a breed of dog.

FACT---> the dog called a Pit Bull is not a breed! It's called the Pit Bull type canine. There is no breed of dog called a Pit Bull.

Genetically, one who owns a Pit Bull type canine has no idea what they have. It's an abused breed that's been bread erratically with no direct lines to pin it to any traceable breed. It is a dog with "characteristics" but no stable attributes to rely on.

Call your dog a Pit Bull if you wish, but don't call it a breed.

[ErikJ]

103. Yeah yeah and an AR-15 is a harmless little rifle as the gunnuts say

[defacto7]

107. I have no idea what you are saying....

You must be posting to a different reply.

[ErikJ]

108. Lets give the whole group a name then.

Lets just call it a dog group that has a very large jaw and head with very muscular body bred for dog fighting and killing then. Gun nuts try to confuse and obfuscate too.

[defacto7]

116. Still not sure where you are coming from.

I was not confusing anything. I was pointing out that some in these posts are claiming expertise in dog breeds and they are calling a Pitt Bull a Breed. In my clarification, I was trying to show that Pit Bull type dogs are beyond predictable as others are trying to push. It's not that simple. Pit Bull dog types are genetically faulty period. They can't be bread into some form that is consistent. To claim "they" are safe is not wise. To claim they are only the product of their owner is irresponsible and ill-informed. But that will always go on deaf ears if their experience is perfectly cuddle-some and fine. They are mimicking their own experience as if it's the same for the rest of the world. Reality and facts are an unreachable practice to the dogmatic. (pun not intended) I have posted all the appropriate data in previous posts. I don't intend on doing again. It's a waste of time. But calling the Pitt Bull a breed gives an impression of stability and reliability where there is none.

[ErikJ]

117. I agree. I doubt if Dog Fight breeders are worried about AKC standards HAHAHA

They just try to breed the most badassed dogs together. If they can win in the ring. good enough. The product is always a large jaw and head with muscular body type. And a hair trigger temper.

[DonCoquixote]

101. as a small dog owner

never forget one thing about small dogs; be they yorkies, dachsunds or Chihuhahas: they were bred to burrow into hole and fight cornered rats. All of them have the attitude of fighting dogs, and I say this as someone whose little Napoleon of a dog chases away dogs ten time his size.

[ErikJ]

104. 14 month old not so lucky.

WALWORTH COUNTY (WITI) — Walworth County Sheriff’s deputies say a 14-month-old boy was attacked by two pit bulls in the Town of Walworth on Wednesday, March 6th. The boy later died.
The boy was flown by Flight for Life to Milwaukee with critical injuries — but later succumbed to those injuries.
The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office says the incident occurred on North Lakeshore Drive.
30-year-old Susan Iwicki called 911 just before 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, stating that she and the young boy were under attack from two pit bulls she owns on the property. The animals were removed from the property, and a vet euthanized both pit bulls.
A neighbor told FOX6 News Iwicki was babysitting the child.
“It’s a quiet area. A lot of the people don’t live here year round, and it’s a quiet road. I’m not gonna sleep well tonight,” Sandi McGough said.
The area was quiet without many of its summertime residents, but those who live in the area year round said they were stunned and heartbroken to learn of the pit bull attack.
A neighbor told FOX6 News Iwicki had had the pit bulls since they were puppies, and said the dogs seemed well-behaved.

http://fox6now.com/2013/03/06/14-month-old-boy-attacked-by-pit-bull-in-town-of-walworth/

[Midnight Writer]

105. Irresponsible breeding

is a large part of the problem, along with stupid owners.

When I was a kid, our neighbors bred (and sold) Dobermans. They would breed the mother with its own sons, and breed brothers with sisters. They ended up with overly aggresive dogs, which they were somehow proud of.

At one time, the inbreeding problem was with German shepards (when Rin Tin Tin was popular), then it was St. Bernards (think Cujo), and now it is pit bulls. There is a subset of pet owners who want to own the baddest dog they can find (similiar to gun owners who want the baddest gun).

I was out walking my small terrier mix a while back when a woman came up to me and said (smiling and very cheerfully) "oh, my dogs would just love this little guy. I have two pit bulls and a Rotwieller and they would make a quick meal of him".

A few weeks later, her dogs got loose and busted through the window of my neighbor's sunroom and killed their two cats. Thankfully, their two toddlers were not out there at the time. I don't doubt that this crazy lady was proud of her dog's aggresiveness.

[ErikJ]

112. Bingo!

Sometimes I dont know who I'm more wary of, the dog or the owner. And they dont put a lot of thought process into their "breeding". Just the most "badass" with the most "badass". No wonder theres no clear lines for the breed.

[pnwmom]

115. Here's another story about heroic little Honey.

http://www.theprogress.com/news/200336311.html

The week following the attack, as a flock of reporters walk up the driveway of Anne Marie and Paul Desrochers’ home, four-year-old Honey barks to let her owners know that people are on the property. She keeps her distance and sticks close to her family.

Soon the barking stops.

She cautiously approaches each person, sniffing their ankles when they’re not looking.

She frequently returns back to the Desrochers and their granddaughter, Jenna, after investigating each visitor as if to tell them that everyone has her stamp of approval.

Then Honey sees the neighbour’s dog, Chevy, saunter onto the property. Honey growls and barks, but never bites nor nips at Chevy. Chevy, an older dog, takes a few steps backwards staring innocently at Honey. Honey continues to bark. Chevy gets the point, turns around, and slowly goes home.

SNIP

[Hekate]

118. Honey is going to be that little girl's best friend the rest of her life

[Poll_Blind]

119. We had chihuahuas when I was little. 3 of em. I know that face and what...

...that little thing is capable of. I'm surprised the chihuahua didn't go even crazier.

They almost have no sense of self-preservation when they are pissed. Truly loco.

Looks like it helped in this situation.

PB

[whatchamacallit]

144. I know first hand what those dogs can do

Sure they're sweet... until they're not. And when they're not it's like a bomb going off. 12 western nations were smart enough to recognize this and ban ownership. But of course the world's most fearful, violent, over-armed country can't figure it out.

[Jamastiene]

148. Actually, a small dog can do quite a bit of damage to a larger dog.

Well, a pack of them can. The smaller dogs, when in packs, go for the soft underbelly of the larger animal, where all of the important organs are. They can bite a lot faster and more often in the time it takes for a larger dog to even open his mouth. But, it took some real bravery for 1 little dog to do what that dog did.

Good to hear the little dog was able to save his person and live to tell the tail, er, tale.

Did they say what actual breed the dog was? "Pit bull" is so generic for so many different breeds of dog.

[datasuspect]

162. little dogs have the biggest hearts

many chihuahas are brave little creatures.

[Redford]

154. I worked for a veterinarian for years and saw the damage pit bulls could do

We had to sew up many a victim of pit bulls. One attacked our clinic cat and killed her. She just shook the crap out of her and would not let go. This old lady receptionist we had walked up behind the pit bull and put her index finger up the dogs anus and the dog finally let go to turn around and look at what was up.

While I think a good owner can make all the difference, I would never own one.

[The Second Stone]

158. Every dog has its day.

Go Honey!

[Jack Sprat]

166. Priceless. n/t