Pit bull attack in east Napa | Napa Valley Register

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Pit bull attack in east Napa

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

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By MARSHA DORGAN, Register Staff Writer

A Napa woman and her two dogs were attacked by four pit bulls on Sunday on railroad tracks in east Napa.

The woman, whose name was not made available by law enforcement officers, was walking her two dogs on a leash near the tracks by Third Street and Soscol Avenue.

One of the pit bulls, who live with a couple in the 1600 block of East Avenue, has been cited before, according to Napa County Sheriff’s Capt. John Robertson.

The four loose pit bulls came charging down the railroad tracks, Robertson said.

The woman was able to pick up one of her dogs, he said. “The other one ran off into traffic and was hit by a car. I don’t know the condition of the dog, but I know it didn’t die.”

The woman was bitten in the hand while trying to fend off the dogs, Robertson said.

A nearby resident came out of his house to try to scare the pit bulls off, he said. “His dog followed him and was attacked by the pit bulls. The dog suffered moderate injuries.”

Animal control officers arrived on scene and were able to round up the dogs. “The officers knew where the dogs lived because one of them has been cited before,” Robertson said.

The dogs were taken to the animal shelter. They are under quarantine to determine if any of them have rabies.

Robertson said the owners will have to attend a dangerous dog hearing, where a committee will determine if the dogs are dangerous or vicious.

If the dog is deemed dangerous and returned to the owner, the owner must pay a $500 fine, register the dog as dangerous, sign up for professional dog training, reimburse victims for property and medical expenses, agree to have an identifying microchip put under the animal’s skin and install yard signs warning the public.

If the animal is deemed vicious, the owner must pay a fine up to $1,000, agree to behavior testing by an expert, construct an enclosure built to county specifications, spay or neuter the animal, provide proof of liability insurance, keep the dog away from places where children are present and agree to use muzzles or appropriate leashes and collars when off site.

If found to be vicious, the dogs could be destroyed.

In addition, owners must pay the animal shelter for boarding, which costs $30 per day, per dog.

114 comment(s)

cathyodom wrote on Apr 29, 2008 5:48 AM:

" I really, really don't like pit bulls.... "

starling wrote on Apr 29, 2008 7:11 AM:

" Whether pit bulls or not, these dogs should never have been allowed to run free. "

yamamama wrote on Apr 29, 2008 7:15 AM:

" Dog owners must build an adequate enclosure if their dog is vicious, but not if it's dangerous? I don't want vicious OR dangerous dogs roaming the neighborhood. I think we need to change requirements for owners of dangerous dogs. The fines need to be higher, too. If you're going to be irresponsible when you own mean dogs, it needs to really, really hurt financially. Especially when there's already been a citation. "

yrmom wrote on Apr 29, 2008 7:20 AM:

" Get RID OF THESE CREATURES. Now you can't even walk down the street with your own dog?? I think they all need to be gone. "

truth wrote on Apr 29, 2008 7:29 AM:

" Dont blame the breed people! This was just a little "misunderstanding" between otherwise perfectly socially adapted dogs getting a little "off-leash" exercise that they enjoy sooo much, the darlings. "

Napanee wrote on Apr 29, 2008 7:29 AM:

" Get rid of irresponsible dog owners! "

mominapa wrote on Apr 29, 2008 7:37 AM:

" Considering the damage that might have been done by four rampaging pit bulls, this lady got off easy. The next victim might not be so lucky. I don't understand the mentality of a person who needs to keep vicious dogs. Is there something lacking in the owner? It certainly can't be that they are such a nice and loving pet because I have had friends who have been attacked by their own pit bulls. You never hear of a cockapoo or a dachshund attacking a child and killing it. If you want a big, happy, protective dog, get a golden retriever. The Pit Bull breed should be made extinct. "

109823 wrote on Apr 29, 2008 8:06 AM:

" I have no patience for pitbulls or their owners. The laws should be changed, if your pitbull gets out and attacks someone or another dog it should be put down and the owner fined heavily. "

Common Sense wrote on Apr 29, 2008 8:12 AM:

" 'truth' says: "Dont blame the breed people!"
-But, as any honest dog breeder will tell you, pit bulls are bred for violence. Socialization and training can minimize the tendency, but genetics do matter. At any rate, the owner needs to be held fully accountable...publicly. "

auntielmo wrote on Apr 29, 2008 8:14 AM:

" I live on 1st street. And these 4 pit bulls came into my yard on Sunday & came after my 3 little dogs. Thankfully my husband was able to scare the pit bulls away before anything bad happened. This isnt the first time these dogs have been loose with no leashes & the owners no where near them. I hope these owner/owners get what they deserve. I hope the animals & people injured all recover. "

napadad wrote on Apr 29, 2008 8:36 AM:

" They should have been at alston park! "

jomar wrote on Apr 29, 2008 8:41 AM:

" I have a pit bull who is extremely friendly, she is all love... dont blame the breed, blame the owner. They arent all dangerous or vicous animals... Any dog could be harmful or dangerous if it is taught those things. These 4 pits shouldnt go back to their owners because they pose a threat to other people and thats the owners fault not the animal. Now people who have pits have to worry about their dog barking from inside the home at a passerby! "

smartypants wrote on Apr 29, 2008 9:00 AM:

" Off leash dogs unless aproved by the city/county (i.e. Alston dog park), even in your front yard, is against the law people and this is a prime example of why. Don't blame the Pit Bull (I have seen many vicious and scary Goldens while walking my dog), but if you have a powerful breed you need to make sure the general population is protected aginst any possible problems. EVERY DOG has the ability to hurt another animal and/or person, owners need to take their blinders off and be responsible. I've been bit by a neighbors Jack Russel for walking past their house, so you just never know. "

iamfalconer wrote on Apr 29, 2008 9:08 AM:

" 4 Pit bulls? Stats show that pit bull owners choose these animals for protection of illegal activities inside of the residence, like drug and gun sales. Napa police must look deep into why so many of these dangerous dogs are being kept in the residence. "

raybo wrote on Apr 29, 2008 9:12 AM:

" Quarantine the owners. This is not the first time they have been irresponsible. A child may die next time. "

vibrantmktplace wrote on Apr 29, 2008 9:40 AM:

" I always felt ambivalent about pit bulls and read these stories with dispassionate interest until the other day when I was cornered in my own driveway by one who'd chased my cat up a tree. The cornered me and I couldn't move, having nothing to which to defend myself. I'd still be there if someone hadn't heard my yells and who came out to throw a pan at the dog. "

Dirty Napkin wrote on Apr 29, 2008 9:46 AM:

" What about the owners who have little fluff ball dogs, who are not mean, but poop and pillage the neighborhood...They should be fined too! "

ACaringNapkin wrote on Apr 29, 2008 9:46 AM:

" We always hear how this breed is "vicious" or that breed is "vicious" and what not. It is not the breed of dog, it is the people that raise and keep it. Small dogs are many times far more vicious than large ones, and even the lazy lab can be a truly vicious dog if improperly trained and cared for. Dogs of all breeds need to be properly socialized and cared for, starting when they are puppies and carried on throughout their lives. Having a dog in the back yard, throwing it some food occasionally, and maybe spending an hour a month with it is not properly caring for it. If you don't want to spend time (lots of time) everyday with the animal; please don't have it. Dogs, like children, cannot be left to their own devices -- of so, they will become board and can (and usually will) become vicious. I have had Rottweilers for over 30 years, and have never had anything but love and loyalty from them. They have never attacked anyone. They love everyone, children play on and around them, and they are not vicious. I spend hours everyday caring for my dogs, obey the leash laws (if you love your dog; leash it), properly socialize them, don't let them run the streets, and am a responsible owner. If I did not, I would probably have vicious dogs. Not everyone should own dogs. Having a pet is a huge commitment and responsibility. If I had my way, owners who are fined or found to have vicious dogs would be banned from having dogs at all, but it is not my way, and I can only love and care for my own. "

MichelleG wrote on Apr 29, 2008 9:48 AM:

" While it is very true that some pit bulls can be vicious (usually a result in the owners handling and or training of the dog) it is not true of the entire breed. I am extremely sorry for the woman and dogs that were attacked as a result of the pit bull owner's negligence, but that is what the problem boils down to - the irresponsibility of the owner, who should be fined and reprimanded. There are many other breeds of dogs that are aggressive (and I hate to inform mominapa, but Dachshunds are actually one of these breeds - a breed that is NOT suitable for young children) http://www.rescueeverydog.org/dachshund_breed.html but because of these other breeds smaller size and limited strength, they do not do the same amount of damage when they attack and thus do not get reported with the frequency that pit bull attacks do. Some pits (gasp!) can actually be loving and loyal if not taught to behave otherwise (a point I’m sure many of you will enjoy arguing until this topic is
Beat into the ground). Point being - the blame needs to be placed squarely on the shoulders of the owners of all dogs to ensure their dogs are properly confined at home, and controlled in public. Enforcing this type of responsibility makes more sense than arguing that the breed should be made extinct which is obviously not a viable or realistic solution. I personally have been surrounded by pit bulls for years and have never has anything but wonderful experiences with them, however I am not blind to the fact that they can be dangerous when under the ownership of the wrong people, and THAT is where the real problem lies. Please persecute the people and not the dogs.

"

bullylover wrote on Apr 29, 2008 9:52 AM:

" I agree that any dog running loose is not a good thing. And any time a person or animal gets attacked by an animal is not good. However, just because the dog is a pitbull doesn't mean it's a vicious dog. People have this huge misconception about pitbulls. Pitbulls can be and are wonderful family dogs. Unfortunately I lost my pitbull 2 years ago to cancer. He was the ultimate family dog. He would position himself between my little niece and the pool so she would keep away from the pool. Every time she walked, he walked and was always between her and the pool. He loved cats, he loved my rabbits. He would find the rabbit when it got out and sit next to it so I would know where it was. He greeted everyone with a smile. If you knocked on the door, he would bark. As he should. He went through all the obedience classes at the dog club. He was a great dog. People need to be educated about pitbulls. Not just the public, but the person who owns these dogs. Why in the world would you let your dog - any breed of dog - run loose? Did they escape their yard or does this happen all the time? I see that 1 of the dogs has been cited before. It would be very interesting to find out the whole story, not just pieces of it. I feel bad for the lady who got bit and for her dog. I hope they heal quickly. "

MichelleG wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:06 AM:

" Pit Bulls and dog bite related human fatalities and other statistics
Statistics about dog bites are difficult to analyze because the term "pit bull" may be used to refer to other breeds. The differences in appearance which separate dog breeds are often hard to determine. Generally, dogs are categorized by differences in outward physical attributes… One problem in gathering data is the lack of information about the total dog population. Despite the lack of hard data, public perception is that pit bulls are more likely to bite than other breeds.[4]
"The problem with statistics appears to be that there is no consistency in where the figures are obtained, nor are there variables included in most studies. Some studies use AKC numbers, some use HSUS numbers and others use CDC&P numbers. Few include causes or contributing circumstances to the attacks, nor are the total numbers of dogs in a certain breed taken into consideration. There is no national recording system for non-fatal dog bites in the United States."[5]
In shelters across the United States, Pit Bulls or dogs that appear to be Pit Bulls comprise a large portion of the shelter's population and may be destroyed due to the stigma associated with the breed (or because of overcrowding). [6]
Nevertheless, they can and often do make wonderful family pets as featured on the American Little Rascals and Our Gang television shows. The American Temperament Testing Society gives the American Pit Bull Terrier breed a "pass" percentage of 84.1%. The average of all breeds is 81.5%. [7]
While friendliness and tolerance towards humans are traits of the breed [4], there are, as in any breed, those that are dangerous toward humans. Many attacks by other dog breeds are misclassified as "pit bulls" by media reports.[8]

- Wikipedia "

MichelleG wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:08 AM:

" iamfalconer...just curious where you find your stats...can you show me where I can read the stats you are talking about? "

calistogadad wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:09 AM:

" Truth??? "just a little misunderstanding"? Do you really believe that? It is the people with your mentalilty that is truly scary. Google pit bull attacks so you can see the aftermath of these "misunderstandings", how about a 4 year old child with thier face torn off. I would like to really express what I think of you and the worthless breed, but probably wont get posted. "

roni8877 wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:11 AM:

" I should think after the first offence the owners would have to take the animal for dog obedience trainging..one approved by the spca. The owners should be required to post a bond or bail to get the dog back. I susoect this would end these problems! "

dahlia wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:21 AM:

" I try to carry my pepperspray, just to have something to protect myself from who or whatever crosses my path. "

Rocco wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:30 AM:

" Round them all up and have each and everyone of them put down! Now, as for the poor dogs, that's a more difficult issue to address. "

Joe wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:47 AM:

" None can just make the pit bull extinct. Why not have all tigers go extinct too because of what happened at the sf zoo. There are many good pit bulls out there. I wouldn't be surprisded if this story just says four pit bulls but was really maybe two and two other dogs. Or at least not full bread pit bulls. The writer knows that people like to hear about pit bull attacks so they are just exaggerating. "

yes wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:56 AM:

" HEY COMMON SENSE.........your name says it all.....i TOTALLY AGREE with you!!! The owner is completely responsible for the way they raise and bring up their dogs! "

napablogger wrote on Apr 29, 2008 11:04 AM:

" don't blame the breed? come on, it is the breed and everyone knows it. Pit Bulls were bred to fight and it is instinctual with them. I have two Welsh Corgi's who were bred to herd animals. and I have never trained them to do so but they just sponteneously do it at times. I could no more stop that than a pit bull owner could stop their dog from fighting. There are other breeds bred to fight as well.

I think the owners deserve more than a fine, they deserve the threat of jail time equal to if they had inflicted the same injuries themselves. If the owner had attacked someone and injured their hand, felony assault charges would be filed. Same thing here, I have had it with this. "

Grape-Town wrote on Apr 29, 2008 11:13 AM:

" All Pit bulls are not bad.... I have a Pit bull and she is the best dog ever..... She has never hurt any dog or better yet any person. Don't blame the breed... Put it this way if there is some bad/dangerous, white people or mexican or even black people we don't want to extinct them all..... So why would you want to do that with Dogs...... BLAME THE OWNERS!!!!! "

Dwayne wrote on Apr 29, 2008 11:31 AM:

" Any breed of dogs have a pack mentality, and will attack when in a group.

Pitts were bred as fighting dogs because when they bite they tear flesh because they don't let go, like a Collie does when it bites.

Aggression is not the point. Even the bear that killed it's trainer last week, was docile and like a family pet.

My homeowner's insurance asks me to declare if I own a Pitt Bull. Why do you suppose that is? "

bornnraised wrote on Apr 29, 2008 11:46 AM:

" Funny, I've seen more Lab attacks than any other breed. I also think it's "funny" that so many Lab owners feel they have the right to walk their dogs without leashes because the Lab is "america's sweetheart". I own 2 Bullies and they are both trained in Dog Whisperer programs and live indoors with my husband and I. My cat is the dominant role in the house, not either "big and scary" pit bulls. But then again, I consider myself responsible for my domesticated pets and have done the extra work so that socialization has never been any sort of issue. IT IS WORK TO BE A PET OWNER. I call it a labor of love. "

kevin wrote on Apr 29, 2008 11:51 AM:

" The solution is simple: CONCEALED CARRY... "

bornnraised wrote on Apr 29, 2008 11:51 AM:

" It's so ridiculous. Anyone who thinks it's the breed, go to your local shelter and speak with ANYONE who works there. They will educate you as to the hatred and ignorance that surrounds this issue, all perpetrated by the naive. You might realize that people who actually work in this environment might know more than you. "

NValleyGirl wrote on Apr 29, 2008 12:00 PM:

" Weird, a pitbull attack makes the news, but other attacks by dogs don't even get so much a a byline. I wonder why that is?

Pitbulls make wonderful family dogs, do yourself a favor and actually reasearch the dog, talk to pitbull rescue groups or families that own happy, healthy, pitbulls, instead of drawing your conclusions from the newspaper. They are great companions and it goes hand in hand with responsible owners and responsible breeders. Pitbulls are rampantly overbred for profit and are one of the most abused breeds of dogs. Tons are killed in shelters everyday.

Also, the term "pit bull" is thrown around when a majority of the time the dog is not a pure bred American PitBull Terrier. The gigantic "scary" looking dogs are not true pitbulls!

There are many breeds out there that are far more vicious than a pitbull, they are just unable to inflict as much damage as a pitbull can. When is the last time you read a headline about a lab killing someone, probably never. Does that mean it doesn't happen, goodness no. But for some reason when another breed maims or kills it always fails to make the news.

Punish irresponsible owners, breeders, and those who harm the breed and it reputation by having vicious fighting dogs.

So put the torches and pitchforks down, loose the lynch mob mentality and educate yourself on the breed. "

MichelleG wrote on Apr 29, 2008 12:21 PM:

" Napa Blogger, do you know what I’ve had it with? People that consistently generalize without researching both the BAD and GOOD of this breed.

Yes, they can be dangerous, but if you think it is purely the breed and not the owner you are sorely mistaken. A little research online from people that would appear to be greater experts than you (or I) and probably many other people posting here indicates the following (and I’d love to include more but I am limited to three hundred words here):

Unless very poorly bred or trained to attack humans through abusive methods, Pit Bulls are by nature very good with people. A dog showing severe shyness or aggression towards humans may be genetically unstable. The Truth About Pit Bulls:
Pit Bulls are not the stereotypical devil dog put forth in media myths. They are companion animals who have enhanced the lives of many through their devoted people-loving natures, positively channeled physical prowess, bravery, and intelligence.
Pit Bulls strive to take on the behaviors that their guardians instill in them, and their behavior is reflective of the care, training and socialization practices (or lack thereof) used by their owners.
- Partnership for Animal Welfare

"Both the National Centers for Disease Control and the American Veterinary Medical Association oppose canine profiling. They recognize that responsible dog guardianship is more relevant in determining bite risk than breed type. PAWS, and many other animal welfare organizations, agree and strive to educate and support each adopter on how to be a responsible guardian."

- The Progressive Animal Welfare Society
"

Common Sense wrote on Apr 29, 2008 12:23 PM:

" If breed didn't matter, then you would see more labradors, goldens, and beagles as fighting dogs. But breed DOES matter...that's why there are so many vicious pit bulls, rottweilers, and dobermans.

I volunteered at the pound for quite some time. Proper socialization can greatly minimize the violent tendencies, but to say that breed doesn't matter is naive. I'm sure there may be some out there, but I have yet to meet a veterinarian that disagrees. "

someguyinnapa wrote on Apr 29, 2008 12:28 PM:

" cathyodom...
and especially common sense;
and all other haters of the pit bulls;

educate yourselves.

the problems with dogs are not the breeds, but the owners. there is a golden retrievier and a yellow lab that just moved into the backyard behind me and now my 4 year old and 1 1/2 year old boys cannot go outback by themselves because that golden retreiver and yellow lab are vicious and violient dogs. they often stick their noses through the knot holes in the fence to growl, snap and bite at my kids. I politey asked the owner how "we" (as in her and I) could work on this problem together and she said that it is not her problem if my kids get bit.

so who is the vicious one here? this time it is the dogs and the owner. what she does not realize is the fact that I will own her house if her dogs bit me, my wife or my kids. EVEN IF we are invited to her yard to play (which I owuld never accept such an invitation from someone soooo ignorannt) and the kids get bit it is still THE OWNERS RESPONSIBILTY! I am truely sorry that that poor woman got bit and her dog was injured as well as the dog that ended up run over, but the problem ultimately is HUMAN! Just like all you off leashers at Alston! some HUMAN BEINGS are among the dumbest and most vicious animals on the planet. rescue those dogs and fine the owners! "

sammy wrote on Apr 29, 2008 12:44 PM:

" To Bornnraised,... can you tell me what dog whisper type training and where ? I'm searching for one, I'm getting a great dane soon and want to seek out that type of training verses the typical dog obedience training. I'd appreciate any inpurt "

hawkeye wrote on Apr 29, 2008 12:59 PM:

" If you believe the breed is irrelevant, you're dilusional. Pit Bulls are bred to fight. I think the consensus will point to pits being a not good breed to own. It is BOTH the breed AND the owner. A pit bull can be raised to be loving, but the violent potential is still there. A naturally docile breed can be trained to be violent. And of course there are a few other vicious breeds. Both issues need to be looked at. "

Napkin wrote on Apr 29, 2008 12:59 PM:

" Alta Heights School should be warned of these roaming vicious dogs. They could easily wander onto the school grounds. The 1600 block of East Avenue is down by Clark Street. The lady in the article was attacked on the railroad tracks which are definitely NOT in Alta Heights, and another blogger on First Street had the dogs come into their back yard. "

VJ07 wrote on Apr 29, 2008 1:08 PM:

" What an awful experience for this innocent lady, her leashed dogs, the heroic neighbor and his dog !!! As taxpayers, WE are paying this committee to tell us that the "sky is blue"? DUH! Is it not already obvious ??? And how about the follow-up on these irresponsible pet owners. Who pays for that? A fence to County specifications, a "proper" muzzle or leash, keep the dogs away from children ----- tell me WHO is going to keep track of all of this activity and WHO will be paying the bill? hmmmmmm.... I wonder... UNTIL another animal, child, or adult is mauled or killed.... Maybe this extreme breed of dog should live next door to the committee members and their families !!! "

NValleyGirl wrote on Apr 29, 2008 1:36 PM:

" To CommonSense: Maybe you should get out and meet more vets. There are tons that would love to disagree with you! "

bornnraised wrote on Apr 29, 2008 1:48 PM:

" VJ07 makes a hidden valid point; follow-up. A handful of irresponsible, selfish, careless dog owners allow naive people to make grand generalizations regarding ALL dogs from specific breeds by not taking care of theirs, so to speak. As a Bully owner, I would like to see a team of people that do nothing but follow up on vicious dog complaints strictly to hold those responsible accountable and take away the tongue-wagging of people that simply don't know all the facts. "

Suze wrote on Apr 29, 2008 1:50 PM:

" I too have known some sweet and wonderful Pit Bull terriers. But many pure breed dogs have strong traits bred into them. Your labs and goldens love to swim, terriers will dig and hunt and hounds put their noses down and follow it for hours (or days.) All the bully breeds were bred for guarding and fighting, if you have a dog of this type, it has to be trained, and you have to be experienced, responsible and diligent. Two dogs or more constitute a pack, in all dogs, pack instincts are always JUST under surface. The most dangerous of these is when one dog in the pack gets aggressive - the rest will then just pile on and attack. Many a sheep has been killed by a pack of 'townie' dogs whose owners would about die of shock to see little Mitzi tearing at the throat of another creature. This is a horrible news story of careless irresponsible owners, but I think the penalties for owners sound pretty just. "

yrmom wrote on Apr 29, 2008 2:19 PM:

" For these people saying it's not the dog it's the owner, that is true to a certain extent. Yes a golden retriever or lab or even a maltese could be raised to be an agressive pet.....BUT if they bit you it probably wouldn't be as horrific as if you were bit by a pit. They could snap and kill, not just hurt. And you can't do much to stop them..That's why these dogs are scary to have around. When you have an infant and you are going for a walk and a pitbull bites half it's face off or maybe just an arm or leg.....maybe you will get it. Or maybe you will still say "save the dog"" LOL "

napadad wrote on Apr 29, 2008 2:34 PM:

" Pit bulls are naturally animal agressive and have a strong prey drive without proper socialization training and constant vigilance they can be dangerous to any small animals they contact. They are poor guard dogs as they are naturally people friendly and will many times allow a stranger to access property yet will willingly intercept an attack on thier owner or other family members. when taught to guard the pit bull can become wary and distrustful and attack on false cues . A pit bull who has any genetic abnormalities which can be a common problem with any pure bred dog can pose a severe threat to anyone including the animals owner and you can not train genetics out of an animal. Signs can be as easy to spot as obsessive tail chasing growling at feet or tail while eating etc. both false prey cues due to inbreeding and other genetic abnormalities or can go hidden until old age or triiggered by some other cue. Due to thier tenacity large size powerful musculature and oversize jaw muscles these dogs are capable of delivering massive trauma breaking bones and killing other dogs, and even humans, especially children, when excited or agressive. The owners are at fault as are gun owners that kill. The dog and gun are both capable of killing but if a gun is loose in the streets scaring pedestrians and attacking dogs the gun gets taken away and the owner usually doesnt get it back I love pit bulls and dogs in general but the dogs and thier owners should be held until the public can be assured the behavior will not re-occur "

Caligirl wrote on Apr 29, 2008 2:47 PM:

" The bottom line here is that four dogs attacked an innocent woman and her pets, not to mention the poor neighbor who came to help. The dogs involved should be destroyed, the owner fined and barred from owning any more animals. Clearly the actions of the owner (past & present) show they do not know how to be responsible pet owners. For those of you who think putting the dogs down is too harsh, sorry.....I love dogs and have owned many over the years.......however once they have tasted blood it is very dificult to train that behavior out of them and it will more than likely happen again. Do you want your child/grandchild/family member to be the next victim? Probably not. This is indeed a very sad situation........ "

d8751 wrote on Apr 29, 2008 3:10 PM:

" i love how they missed the part were before they attacked here they had attacked a dog on east ave at the intersection of east first st it scared the hell out of me we were out side with the kids playing and they came running down the street. my three year old witnessed the beging of the attack before i could get him inside. these dogs are vicious and should be taken off the streets. thank god it wasnt one of the kids. "

leavintown wrote on Apr 29, 2008 3:40 PM:

" I don't care if it is a poodle, Lab, or a Pit Bull. If a dog was not on a leash and came after one of my family members or one of my dogs and hurt them, I would go find the nearest object that would put that dog out. I don't care who's dog it is, I don't care what kind of dog it is. If an unleashed dog does any harm to my family or my dogs (on a leash) I will kill that dog without hesitation. I don't care what the owner thinks. I don't care what the penalties are either. I am not a mean person, but I don't think there is a place for these kinds of animals in our town. Especially not on a leash and able to run free. "

common sense wrote on Apr 29, 2008 5:29 PM:

" NValleyGirl says: "CommonSense: Maybe you should get out and meet more vets. There are tons that would love to disagree with you!"

-Oh really? I know most of the vets in Napa, and not a single one would say that breed does not matter. Why don't you name some names, and we'll do some calling around? "

109823 wrote on Apr 29, 2008 5:39 PM:

" Leavintown, I wholeheartedly agree with you. But, I read an article in a newspaper a few years back about two owners walking their dogs. The dogs became aggressive towards one another and the one dog pins the other. Owner #1 pulls out a gun and shoots the dog. Owner #2 pulls out his own gat and deposits a ball of hot lead in the owner #1. So be careful as to what dog you decide to put down on your own. "

MyInput wrote on Apr 29, 2008 5:50 PM:

" When will Napa get serious about irresponsible dog owners? Whether it be in our neighborhoods or public parks, some dogowners simply feel they have a god-given right to "release the hounds" on the rest of society. It gives well kept dogs and we, their owners, bad reputations. The irresponsible and arrogant dog owners of our community should pay much stiffer penalties for allowing their pets to run off leash anywhere in the City. Period. "

cisnerjc wrote on Apr 29, 2008 5:51 PM:

" I own a pitbull and can honestly say that I agree with everyone...for the most part. Certainly, I see everyone's perspective regarding the vicious tendencies that pits have. I, too, have seen how excited (almost agressively excited) my dog gets with other dogs, especially when he is provoked. But he's never bitten or even attempted to bite a human being. He is very social and so I also agree with those that said that pits can be very loving if they are properly raised and socialized. Likewise, pits can be very aggressive if they are trained to fight.

In this case, I feel that the owners are at fault and must be held accountable for not restraining their dogs. It's irresponsible and, because this has happened twice (with one of the dogs), the punishment should not be lenient. A person was bitten and other dogs were attacked. The owners should have to serve time or community service, pay restitution, and not be allowed to own dogs anymore.

I can be lenient the first time because as a dog owner, I know that sometimes they just get away and sometimes things happen uncontrollably; but each time thereafter, the owner has to be held accountable, as though it was their child attacking someone else.

Point blank, we shouldn't feel unsafe walking down the streets in our own neighborhoods because of dogs. Let's leave that up to human beings. "

Misfit wrote on Apr 29, 2008 5:54 PM:

" Napadad...YOU exemplify the mean spirtidness that is becoming all too common among the residents of Napa Valley. What a stupid thing to say. You should be ashamed but, you are too busy trying to be funny. "

Dwayne wrote on Apr 29, 2008 7:42 PM:

" This afternoon I watched a 6-month old sweetheart of a pitt-puppy be introduced to a 10-month old pitt-puppy. At first it was playful running and playing, then it turned vicious. That's what Pitts do...Grab and hang on like they're bred to do. Even though both were family puppy's, the inbred instinct to fight took over.

It's the breed, not to owner...... "

purenapkin40yrs wrote on Apr 29, 2008 8:14 PM:

" punish stupid people/owners not the poor dogs that happen to live with them. "

barefoot wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:00 PM:

" I love my dog. I never new how much I overestimated my cats until I got a dog. I still like my cats, but a dog is sooooo much smarter. I have a Sheltie\Border Collie cross. Without any training, she can "herd" sheep, horses, cats, etc. without training. You can say it's in her blood. Fighting has been bred into the pit bull. That's why they call it a "breed". Don't be stupid, keep your dog on a leash. It will save you $$$
"

barefoot wrote on Apr 29, 2008 10:04 PM:

" Most pit bull owners are trying to make some sort of statement. Just ask yourself why you want a pit bull over any other dog. "

axim wrote on Apr 30, 2008 8:06 AM:

" While I agree with Napablogger, Welch Corgis can be very dangerous. Their tiny legs and wide bodies make for suitable tripping people. Corgi owners have usually fallen victim to their stealth attacks too often and are rarely reported. Napablogger, whenever you want to use your sneaky dogs on me, I'm ready, I love corgis! All joking aside, breed does have some influence but the owner has a larger influence on dog behavior. I hope the victim heals quickly and that they can find and take care of her other dog. The owners must be held accountable. "

MichelleG wrote on Apr 30, 2008 9:27 AM:

" . Barefoot, I am happy to answer your question: I have a pit bull AND a lab because I have had nothing but good experiences with either. This is why I chose them as pets. It is true, the breed can be aggressive, and yes, they were originally bred as fighters. I don't argue those statements, but I am so tired of all the posters on here repeatedly trying to ram it down everyone else's throats that it is purely the breed at fault and not the owners.
I am now convinced that these posters just haven’t bothered to educate themselves whatsoever, and have simply jumped on the “Kill the pit bulls!” bandwagon. Blaming the breed ONLY is ridiculous, and so far I haven’t seen one single person on this board who claims that it’s purely the breed at fault and that behavior simply has nothing to do with ownership support those statements with any facts, which equals a lot of hot air to me. I have already posted many FACTS from reputable websites that support the claim that while the breed CAN be aggressive, it is the job of the pits owners not to encourage and to reprimand aggressive behavior and fighting. People that own pits should know their faults (like any dog owner should know about the breeds they own) and be responsible with the handling of their pets. If you don’t like pit bulls, that is fine. Everyone is certainly entitled to their own opinion. However, not liking them does not suddenly make you an expert on the breed, so please bring some solid facts to the table before continuing to argue this whole nature vs. nurture issue. Let’s all agree that it has to do with both, shall we?
"

NValleyGirl wrote on Apr 30, 2008 10:07 AM:

" To Barefoot: I own my two pitbulls because I fell in love with them as puppies, they are between 45-50lbs full grown bundles of love. I don't own some mutation of the breed, I am 5'5" and my dogs heads come up a little above my knee, they are not these 100+ lbs vicious dogs that are spread all over the news paper. Why did you choose the breed that you own?

To Common Sense: Geez, you really intimidated me with you "vast" knowledge of Napa Valley vets. I wasn't aware that the practice of veterinary medicine was confined to Napa City limits. That's news to me. Being involved in Bay Area pitbull rescue groups I can assure you I have met more vets then the handful here in the Valley so put away your phone book, I will just tuck my tail between my legs because I don't "know" as many Napa Valley vets as you do.

Give me a break! "

MichelleG wrote on Apr 30, 2008 3:25 PM:

" French Face-Transplant Patient Tells of Her Ordeal
By ARIANE BERNARD and CRAIG S. SMITH
Published: February 7, 2006
(Taken from the New York Times)
“AMIENS, France, Feb. 6 — Isabelle Dinoire, the Frenchwoman who received the world's first partial face transplant, appeared before a roomful of reporters here on Monday, speaking in a slurred voice about her ordeal and thanking the doctors and the donor who have given her a new nose, mouth and chin. "Since the day of the operation, I have a face like everybody else," said Ms. Dinoire, 38, seated on a dais with her doctors in a meeting room of the hospital where the transplant was performed in November. Though her lower lip hangs pendulously, exposing her lower teeth, and her perpetually open mouth barely moves as she speaks, Ms. Dinoire said she had begun to gain feeling in her transplanted skin. Ms. Dinoire described how she awoke to discover her horrible disfigurement AFTER HER BLACK LABRADOR chewed off the lower part of her face while she was unconscious from taking sleeping pills last May.”
What’s this???? A pit bull wasn’t responsible??? How can this be?? Kill the Labradors!!
(I’m kidding of course)
"

CaliGirl wrote on Apr 30, 2008 4:24 PM:

" To those who did not read my comments carefully, nowhere was I speaking specifically about pit bulls. My comments are regarding the specific dogs that attacked, had they been beagles the comments would of been the same. The dogs need to be put down, sad however necessary at this time. The owners need to be heavely fined and legally barred (by the courts) from owning any more dogs, no matter what type.

Any dog can be vicious, any dog can be properly trained & restrained. It's the owners fault for picking a breed that was not suited to them or their circumstances.

"

tfytmp wrote on Apr 30, 2008 8:24 PM:

" I totally agee with Caligirl. "

pbfallon wrote on Apr 30, 2008 8:59 PM:

" And so the debate goes...on and on and on. Fact: tick off a pit bull and you have a problem. Friend just recently lost his Cocker to his Pit Bull. Well, heck, pit bull was the nicest dog on earth. Would never hurt a fly. Cocker ticks off pit bull, pit bull kills cocker.

Good luck all you pit bull owners! "

barefoot wrote on Apr 30, 2008 9:58 PM:

" Wait a minute. I never said I disliked pit bulls. All I was trying to point out is that each breed of dog has it's own instinct bred into it. Just like when you pull your hand away from something that is hot. It doesn't matter what color you are, how old you are, what sex, etc.....you just do. Furthermore, what attracted me to my dog? Her mom died when she was born and needed someone to mother her. "

Deep Well wrote on Apr 30, 2008 10:18 PM:

" In light of this attack it is amazing to me that there are a few (and I mean a few) people out there who are actually advocating that dogs should be permitted to run free without a leash in our town at locations such as public parks ie. Alston park in north Napa! There is no room for debate where public safety is concerned. "

barefoot wrote on Apr 30, 2008 11:00 PM:

" By the way, I do own a Bengal Tiger. Since it's part of the cat family, I believe it is okay to let it roam in the neighborhood. After all, Fluffy has never bitten anybody. Heck, Fluffy gets the morning paper for me. She even covers up her own poop! "

kdbk wrote on Apr 30, 2008 11:05 PM:

" Oh, please. Not the usual smattering of Pit Bull defenders, amongst the overwhelming majority of those who realize that they are not good pets. And what's with the people in the news story, who had 4 of them? A veritable gang of Pit Bulls! You've got to be kidding. And kept in some sort of ramshackle enclosure that obviously didn't hold them in. See, it all fits together.

Now, come on, just one more person write in and tell us about your adorable, friendly Pit Bull. Really enlighten us on the subject. "

NapaJosh wrote on May 1, 2008 9:45 AM:

" Happy to oblige you KDBK, I love my pit! She’s a total sweetheart. By the way, it doesn’t appear to me that there is an “overwhelming majority of those who realize that they are not good pets.” Where did you get those facts from? Not from this board certainly, as it would appear to me that there are about equal portions of those that love ‘em and hate ‘em. CAN WE GIVE THIS A REST ALREADY? Some of the posters clearly hate pits, no matter what they know or think they know about them, and some love them, for what they know about them (myself included in this group). You pit haters aren’t going be persuaded by the lovers and vice versa, so let’s just all agree to disagree and move on to some happier topics. How about those Giants??? "

MichelleG wrote on May 1, 2008 1:20 PM:

" I have an adorable friendly pit bull, and I’ve tried to write posts that might be enlightening, but I have come to realize there is no changing the opinions of people that hate this breed of dog, whether it’s because they’ve had a bad experience or it’s for a simpler and unfounded reason, such as jumping on the bandwagon and following the crowd (which by the way is usually never a great idea).

I have to say though; I can’t conclude from all the previous posts I’ve read that the “overwhelming majority” of people find this breed to be a horrible pet. It seems to me that posters seem to be split down the middle on their opinions on this. I guess the bashers can keep on bashing and the lovers will keep on loving. Count me in as one of the lovers!

"

winemd wrote on May 1, 2008 1:59 PM:

" I am trying to figure this out. According to the other article and the commentary, it would seem that the owner is a responsible person and his dogs are family pets, not trained to fight in any way and have been very good within his family. And people on this board are saying it is not the dog, it is the people. So if the environment was good and this kind of dog is great, then why did this happen? I am not against pits, per se, but would be very cautious of any dog I did not know and was not under control. And I think that once a dog has shown itself to be a problem, there have to be consequences. The city will use the policy they drafted recently to determine what exactly those will be. "

rbrink21 wrote on May 1, 2008 2:40 PM:

" I have a pit mix. The sweetest dog I've ever met. She LOVES kids, just wants to lick all over them. She LOVES cats (we have three that she plays with all the time). We have a neighbor down the street with a bully breed. Also very friendly.

I used to be an anti-bully breed type of person until I met her at a local shelter and she and my other dog fell in love with each other. I can't imagine my life without her.

While walking my two dogs (on leash) they've been attacked two separate times by neighbors' offleash dogs. One attack was by two labs and the other was by a german shepherd.
The most aggressive dog that I've come across loose on our street however, was a Border Collie. The only dog I've ever been viciously bitten by (broken skin too) was a border collie mix.
My point is that ANY breed can be aggressive if they are not properly socialized and don't have a strong leader.

BTW, as a side note, in my hometown, a friend of mine's daughter was attacked by a neighbor's Golden. She had to endure 4 surgeries. My friend called the news station to report it and they told him that they weren't interested in the story, and yet they are more than willing to report when there is a pitbull attack. So just because you seem to "always" hear about pitbull attacks, doesn't mean that they are the only attacks happening, nor are they necessarily more common than attacks from any other breed.

It will be a sad day if breed specific legislation happens and I lose my loving caring dog because of ignorance. "

savetycoon wrote on May 2, 2008 8:54 AM:

" to kdbk: These dogs belonged to two seperate house holds. Each owner had two pits. One owner is my brother, and his pits are sweet natured. One of which was only 4 months old, and just following its parents. the other two belonged to some one else, one of which was my brothers pits mate, and mom. She has known to be quite aggressive. And i bet you, that even the victum would say, the female, (the mean one) was the one doing the attack. but my brothers pits, have never bitten any one, or any animal. Infact they even like cats and small animals of that sort. And they love children. So before you go commenting on why would this owner have 4 pits, read the article. ! "

MyInput wrote on May 2, 2008 10:39 AM:

" Clearly, many are missing the point. A dog attack, in the middle of a residential neighborhood, is not something that should be excused under any circumstances. The meanness or loveable character of one breed or another has virtually no importance here. Quibbling over tendancies of a particular breed, while disregarding the level of responsibility demonstrated by the dog owner, whose pet just attacked someone, is like debating whether it was Jim Beam or Glenlivet that caused the drunken driver to run down the pedestrian while ignoring the fault of the driver. Owners should be required to take full responsibility, 100% of the time, for ensuring that their pets don't present a danger to the well-being of others. They should suffer severe consequences for anything short of this. "

CaliGirl wrote on May 2, 2008 12:02 PM:

" To Myinput.....This is exactly what I have been saying. Don't sit here and argue about the type of dogs good or bad..... Discuss the owners and their lack of accountability in this situation. For the one person who writes her two dogs were just tagging along, and are lovable dogs, you are equally responsible......your dogs were running loose.

No one has the legal right to let their dogs run loose, the bottom line is if they play (attack) you pay.....and if it has happened more than once on your watch, then you loose the right to own dogs PERIOD.

The actions of the owners (both of them) show they have no control over their animals, they were running loose and someone got hurt. Doesn't matter what breed or how "good" they are at home.....SOMEONE GOT HURT is that not enough to say the owners blew it big time, and for one of them this is not the first time.......any dog can be good, any dog can be bad. It is our responsibility as pet owners to make sure no one gets hurt by our pets. If someone gets hurt you, the owner are 100% responbsible for all medical cost, property loss, court fees, impound fees, and in some cases the cost of putting the animal down.

The ones to blame here are the owners.......no one else.

"

Tim wrote on May 2, 2008 4:11 PM:

" My mothers little dog was attacked by a pit 2 months ago while she was walking it..we were lucky to "only" have $600.00 in vet bills.

That's why I bought her a 700,000 volt stun baton to carry with her, it will put the next dog that attacks down. "

napadad wrote on May 2, 2008 5:51 PM:

" If my sarcasm passed for humor then Im ashamed ... of my communication skills. No mean spirited ness intended. My intent was sarcasm pure and simple. Had these dogs been properly excercised ON a leash at alston park regularly they would be less likely to escape and run the neighborhood. Maybe, having been properly socialized ON a leash at alston park they may not have attacked a smaller dog or dogs. At alston park there is a small fenced area for off leash activity because it gives security to an activity that is ripe for misbehavior. Keeping the off leash area easily managed. Had these dogs been at alston park Im sure thier owners knowing the nature of these dogs and being good law Abiding citizens wopuld have had then ON a leash and all would be well. Many would have all of alston park off leash and then a free roaming happy go lucky dog running up to these dogs even while they ( the pit bulls) were leashed would be in danger of attack and injury. Unless you were referring to the gun v dog anology in which case neither sarcasm or humor were the intent, just sadness, that an animal capable of killing can be around my kids, small kids capable of triggering the prey drive in a pit by something as simple as running away. That irresponsible owners are allowed more than one chance to keep thier dogs under control is a travesty. Ive had my neighbors dogs, pit bulls show up in my kids sand box and have them tell me "oh they are sweet" and that may be. I find the lines of a 1911 colt 45 artistic but would be arrested if I left one in a saandbox. "

smartypants wrote on May 3, 2008 8:47 AM:

" Growing up in a small town outside of Seattle, I remember the neighborhood dogs roaming the streets in the afternoon in a "pack" , terrorizing the neighborhood kids and animals while their owners were away at work. Everyone let their dogs out in the backyard unsupervised never thinking their beloved Lab or Golden or terrier would get out of their enclosures..certainly NEVER inflict harm on anyone or anything. Pack mentality is core toEVERY dog. You just happen to be their pack leader when you are at home (or at least you should be!) EVERY dog has the ability to hurt another animal or person given the right circumstances and provocation. This is what the "Pampered Pooch" generation have forgotten. My Grandpa, who was one of California's first K-9 cops, always knew his beloved dogs were just that, dogs, and took the resonsibilty of owning one very seriously...as should we all. "

mytwocents wrote on May 3, 2008 4:49 PM:

" I am not a dog person and I am tired of people walking their dogs off leash in Alta heights. It is not funny to see your dogs chasing my cat in his own yard. Use the leash. "

savetycoon wrote on May 3, 2008 11:21 PM:

" to caligirl:
I don't know about the female that owned two of the pit bulls, but as for tim lotton, it is not his fault. what do you not understand about HE WAS NOT AT HOME, at the time when hes dogs got out. And his dogs werent even out side in the back yard. he was responsible enough to keep his dogs inside. it was his nieghbor that left the door open. not him. Yes these are his dogs, but it wasn't the owner who was irresponsible and left the gate or door open. Tim lotton is a damn good pet owner, and does not do anything to amek his dogs behave the way they did. and you don't think he diserves his four month old puppy, who clearly didn't even do anything. what can a puppy do.? You don't know these dogs, or the owner, so who are you to judge either one of them. Animals make mistakes too. And for tim lottons dogs, this was the first mistake they have ever made like this. talk to the victum to find out who was the attacker, and then come talk to me. Other then that, don't make judgemental comments about Tim lotton, and his babies. "

savetycoon wrote on May 3, 2008 11:23 PM:

" And to all that think these dogs were allowed to run free, no they are not. If outside, these owners always put a leash on them. These animals got out, when noone was home, so they werent allowed to rome free. "

leavintown wrote on May 4, 2008 8:11 AM:

" Bottom line. These are vicious dogs and they need to be put down. You can't argue the fact either because they attacked. Maybe not all pit bulls are vicious, but these dogs are. Also, the owners should be fined big time. Dogs are a BIG responsibility. It doesn't matter if they were let out of the house, sneaked out of the house, jumped the fence or what ever. The owners are still %100 responsible. "

savetycoon wrote on May 4, 2008 2:30 PM:

" to LEAVINTOWN:
yes i fully agree with you about the owners are responsible, but i just wanted to put the point out there to those who think tim was a bad owner. I also wan't to clearify that these dogs were not allowed to run freely were ever they pleased.
But think about it. Serioulsy one of the dogs was only 4 months old. i honestly believe that he should get his pup back. I would like to see Tycoon, tims other dog come home with it.
But like i said the owners are responsible
But you cant watch your kids 24 hours of the day, not all dogs get along. just like kids. if your kids are outside playing, and they start beating up a neighbors kid. are you going to but it down. this women didn't even need stiches. so it was that bad. if they really wanted to hurt her, she would of gotten it alot worse. this doesn't mean i agree with this. becuase no i don't . i am very dissappointed in these dogs. these were apart of my family. so it disapoints me that they acted in such a manner. they just didn't like the dogs i guess. which not all dogs get along.
the dog that has currently goten cited for attacking something, yes i believe she will do it again. and that problem should come to a stop. but as for Tim lottons dogs, this was the first time, they have even growled. let alone, bit something. They diserve a second chance. "

Caligirl wrote on May 5, 2008 4:25 PM:

" To those family members that think I am being to harsh....for the repeat offender dogs, they must be put down, it will happen again. For the two dogs "just tagging along" if according to the witness the older dog participated, sorry I still feel that dog too should be put down, if it didn't participate it should be registered for being part of the attack pack. As for the 4 month old puppy, so long as it is removed to a more responsible situation (new home) that should be enough, it was just following along, this I agree.

As for the owner being a responsible pet owner......someone who owns pits shouldn't be allowing neighbors to enter and exit their house when no one is home, what if the dogs had turned on the neighbor while in the house?

People who own large dogs, pits/dobies/rots/shepards (dogs historically bred as war or fighting dogs) have a greater responsibility than the average dog owner, you choose to own this type of dog then you or the dog must pay when people get hurt.

Sorry if this is not a popular opinion to some, I have owned dobies and shepards, if any of my dogs had done this act they would be put down, tears sorrow and all that it entails.....that is responsible ownership in my opinion.

"

Caligirl wrote on May 5, 2008 4:28 PM:

" By the way, to the one comparing fighting kids to fighting dogs, if kids assault one another they also have consequenses......it's called juvenile detention and a record to go along with it. "

savetycoon wrote on May 5, 2008 9:26 PM:

" To Caligirl:
yes i understand the owners are suposed to take responsibility. which my brother is doing. His puppy doesn't diserve to go to another home, her home is with my brother. As for tycoon ( the older dog ) he also diserves to be returned to my brother. every one makes mistakes, and his was letting his friend into his house. wow what a big mistake. And if you would just let your dogs get put down for something as minor as just a bite, no stiches nothing, then you obviously don't care about your animals as much as my brother does.
So your telling me that if my papillion, ( 6 pound dog) bit someone, and made them bleed, that she should be put down, i think not.

and wow a kid gets a record.! these dogs lose there life. These dogs, should now follow ristrictions, such as, mussle, gates, warning posters, and registered as a dangerous dog, not to be put down. "

CaliGirl wrote on May 6, 2008 10:43 AM:

" To savetycoon - When people compare dogs to humans it is clear that one is not thinking clearly....so enough said, you will never accept that a dog, is a dog, is a dog.....and humans are far more important, even if they don't require stitches.

Your line of thinking is skewed at best, it shows one of the things wrong in this country.....when did dogs get elevated to the same level as a human, any attack is a bad attack, blood or no blood, stiches or no stiches....how can you even justify it the way you do.

You and I will never agree......

New home for the puppy, death to the repeat offenders and a judgement for the third dog......by a judge......then their will be justice for the poor lady who was attacked. "

greeneyes18 wrote on May 6, 2008 11:50 AM:

" save tycoon.

i totally agree with you those dogs have never been they type of dogs to attack anyone. they are really good dogs. i think people at the animal shelter are going to be like damn these dogs are really good and thats that. i feel so bad for tim that his baby. "

realitybites wrote on May 6, 2008 4:36 PM:

" When you own a pit bull, you know what you have - the potential for a problem. It doesn't matter if Tim's neighbor let the dogs out - they are Tim's dogs - what's the neighbor doing letting the dogs out. They are a dangerous animal in the wrong hands or unsupervised. If you leave your handgun on the kitchen table and the neighbor lets some kid into your house and they find the gun and use it - guess who is responsible? A gun is a gun. A pit bull is a pit bull. They are both dangerous in the wrong hands. This situation could have been much worse. The trama this woman must have experienced is inexcusable. I'm also tired of seeing dogs off the leash - trained or not. I don't need your dog running loose in my yard, chasing cats or urinating on my plants. Put your dog on a leash in public - it's the law. I believe there should be no tolerance for dogs escaping. If a cow gets out of a fenced pasture and wanders onto the road and someone hits the cow with a vehicle - the rancher who owns the cow is liable. If a pit bull gets out - I don't care how it happened, the owner is responsible - period. "

savetycoon wrote on May 6, 2008 7:32 PM:

" Thank you greeneyes18, because i am not the only one who thinks that tim disereves his babys back,!

To caligirl: No you and I will never agree, becuase you obviously just don't understand that animals are not just animals, they are a major part of peoples family, if your not stuck up and actually deeply care for your animals. which you clearly don't becuase you don't understand the comparission i was trying to make. Therefore you don't understand how much my brother loved his dogs.

and also yes that is for the judge to decide, becuase if people like you were judges, this world would be turned upside down.

the puppy diserves my brother, tycoon the older dog diserves my brother, and the other dogs diserves a judge to diside, becuase this was not thier first time. As for you, i hope you find a dog, that becomes apart of the family, so you will someday understand what i am saying.

my brother is not a criminal for letting his friend in his house. and you don;t know what the reason for that called for letting his friend in. "

greeneyes18 wrote on May 6, 2008 8:30 PM:

" what you people dont get is pitbulls arnt dangerous because there pitbulls they are like everyother dog. you cant control any dog they are going to do what they want to do. all you who dont know tim and tycoon like me and his sister do shouldnt have anything to say about it anyway you dont know him and you dont know the dog. mind your buisness. "

savetycoon wrote on May 6, 2008 10:53 PM:

" once again thank you greeneyes18. its sad how people just dont get the point i am trying to put across

realitybites: Why don't you people get it I KNOW THE OWNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE! yes everyone knows this, this is not new news to anyone.
my brother is taking full responsibilty for his animals. the point that i am trying to make is for those who think that these dogs acted the way they do because of the owner, or that the owner just is not responsible. he is everything you all are saying hes not.

But what i am saying is that my brother is taking full resposibility, but he diserves his animals back! these arnt' just animals to him like most would say about thier pets, these dogs are his life. they have setimental value for him. These dogs have been there with him for hard times that he is facing. Tycoon has helped him through the loss of our dad, and the puppy has helped him through the struggle of his tragic inncedent. You *the public* need to understand that this was all just a mistake that he never wanted to happen. and he feels REALLY BAD about what happened, but why take everything away from him just over one mistake.?

and if you still want to go own about how these dogs should be put down, or hes a irresponsible owner, just mind your own buisness, and i hope you will one day understand. "

Common Sense wrote on May 7, 2008 6:35 AM:

" If these dogs are not put down, the city should be sued for knowingly endangering the public. "

savetycoon wrote on May 7, 2008 8:56 AM:

" Common sense, These dogs do not diserve to be put down nor the town be sued for letting them live.
If you think that the town is in danger over these dogs, and should be sued for letting them live, then why don't you put down every dog in napa, just becuase some dogs havent' bit yet, doesn't mean there not going to.
Think about it. and your name is commen sense. well use some common sense then "

Common Sense wrote on May 7, 2008 10:12 AM:

" savetycoon, the flaw in your logic is that these dogs have attacked, whereas the majority of dogs around Napa have not.

I think it makes sense that:
1.) Dogs that commit violent acts should be terminated.
2.) Breeds deemed as 'dangerous' should have extra restrictions in place OR (preferably) allow open carry for firearms. Either way, people need some method of protection. "

CaliGirl wrote on May 7, 2008 10:58 AM:

" To savetycoon...

I will tell you exactly why I do understand what your brother is going thru. I had a dog, a Brittney Spaniel, that bit the little boy across the street, she was ordered put down by the city. Do you think I cared any less for my beautiful girl than your brother cares for his dogs? Was it my dog’s 2nd or 3rd offense, no it was her first. Did it matter that the little boy came over and teased her through the fence on a daily basis, did it matter that one day she had enough and she escaped and bit her tormentor? No, it didn’t matter because she was a dog, and she bit a human being. I had three kids at home and they all cried, we all cried, it was horrendous, for all of us. I took my dog to the vet, I said goodbye, I did the responsible thing, even though I didn’t agree with it.

Your brother owns a breed that has in its genes, the gene to fight, you CANT love this trait out of them, its a natural born instinct. He HAS to be extra cautious in how he handles his pets. It matters not why someone was in his house, what does matter is that the dog’s got out. I feel for your brother and the loss he will feel, it is a sad situation for all.

As for minding my business, IT IS MY BUSINESS. I live near your brother and the other dogs, it could have been my family that was attacked. You sound young and you will learn from this experience, I am sorry, however, this is a lesson that will be learned the hard way, for all involved.
"

realitybites wrote on May 7, 2008 11:24 AM:

" Hey greeneyes - a pit bull is not the same as "any other dog". Are you saying if you were this poor woman who was attacked that is wouldn't matter if it were pit bulls or a toy poodle? That just ain't the case. I raised Dobermans all my life - they are not the same as other dogs. I agree that a dog is mainly the product of their owner, but a doberman or a pit bull is not the same as a toy poodle. It's like compairing a stick to a gun - yea, they can both be "weapons" but a gun is much deadlier than a stick.

It doesn't matter what Tim is willing to do after the fact. The fact is - these dogs got out and attacked someone. There is no amount of compensation that will ever erase the horror this woman will live with the rest of her life. It doesn't matter what excuse Tim has for the dogs getting out - the fact is, they got out, they participated in an attack - period.

Are you saying if they get out and attack someone again - we'll all hear the same thing again, about how they deserve another chance - their good dogs, Tim's a good owner - it's all irrelevant.

The dogs got out - who cares how?
The dogs attacked a woman - who cares it hasn't happened with these dogs before?

A human is much more valuable than any dog - period.

"

CaliGirl wrote on May 7, 2008 11:44 AM:

" <<<<<A human is much more valuable than any dog - period.>>>>>>

Thank you for cutting to the heart of the matter.

"

greeneyes18 wrote on May 7, 2008 4:12 PM:

" caligirl.

and we dont care about your dog or your situation. mind your buisness. "

savetycoon wrote on May 7, 2008 7:46 PM:

" To caligirl:
Look to your comment, that humans are much more valueble or important then dogs. no they are not, why becuase dogs are the same way, they feel they love, they smile, they hurt, they cry, and the have passion, Things that alot of humans don't have now and days. I am for one that would but my dog before any human any day. But i guess that is just because im crazy right?

To realibites:
Yes pits are different then any dog. So is every breed. thats why they are not in the same catagorey. i can see the camparission your trying to make. but If a toy poodle got out, it can cause just as much damage, as these pits did.
They just broke the skin, something dogs to everyday. My 6 pound papillion can even do that. so yes any dog can do that.

and also to both of you, calligirl, im sorry for your lose, but if you cant see what im trying to say, then you didn't quite love these dogs like tim does his. and i never said it wasn't any of your buisness. so dont' come off like that.

The point is, these dogs don't diserve to be put to sleep, but alot of humans in this world do, these dogs love life, and enjoy everything and every one in it, and for somereason, these dogs just had an off day, or they didn't like the dog. and you know what, the lady wasn't getting attacked, she tried to seperate her dogs from the "attackers" and thats how her hand got hurt. so don't even try to say that they went after her. these dogs are not vicious towards humans. not all dogs get along "

realitybites wrote on May 8, 2008 8:52 AM:

" To savetycoon: Were you there? Does it matter if the pits were going after the owner or her dogs?

Do you realize it's not the physical injury this woman sufferred, as much as the mental one? Can you imagine walking your small dogs and seeing this attack coming? Then watching your dog get hit by a car trying to avoid the attack?

And your comment that a toy poodle is somehow comparable to a pit bull - please.

Yes, I understand you don't want to see the dogs destroyed. The problem is these pit bulls participated in an attack on a HUMAN. "

CaliGirl wrote on May 8, 2008 11:29 AM:

" To savetycoon……your comment......

""The point is, these dogs don't diserve to be put to sleep, but alot of humans in this world do""

Any further discussion of the matter ends when you think that the life of a dog can at anytime, for any reason, be MORE important than that of a human being’s.

To greeneyes18……
It is my business, I live near the dog’s in question, my family members could be next should these dogs be returned to their respective owners.

BTW - This is an open forum everyone is entitled to state their opinion, so far as it is not slanderous, inflammatory, profane or abusive. Telling someone to mind their own business would be considered an inflammatory statement by many.
"

savetycoon wrote on May 8, 2008 5:00 PM:

" To Realitybites: No i wasn't there, but i have read, and my brother has told me as to what happened. This lady has admitted that these dogs were trying to get her dogs. and she tried to stop them so she got between this dog fight, thats how her hand got cut. and btw, my papillion did get attacked before, by a rot. and i didn't request to get it put down, some dogs don't get along. and my dog was on a leash, and this dog wasn't we were walking around the block and it attacked her. I had to force its mouth open off of my dog. and i got bit. not much, but i bled a little. so ive been in this situation, except my dog didn't get hit. my dogs thigh got cut. and i know how it feels, but i wouldn't put the dog to sleep over it. it just needs to be muzzled, and warning signs need to be posted.

To Calligirl: No the discussion does not end after that. you say that no matter what the reason a human diserves to live before a dog. alot of people would agrue that point with you. A child molester does not diserve to live. a Rapiest does not diserve to live. a Murderer does not diserve to live, all these and more do not diserve to live. Dogs diserve to live.
And what is your reason that humans have more right then dogs. What because they can talk, or they are not covered in furr. Because they are intelligent like humans, and have the same feelings. So why is it that humans are so much better. When they are not. "

CaliGirl wrote on May 8, 2008 7:44 PM:

" To savetycoon.....

I feel sorry for you......their is no more to be said as you have more than proven that you do not think like most rational human beings do.

Has your brother read what you have posted on his behalf, it would be nice to hear from him on the subject, since they are his dogs, and you are obviously biased.

We know where savetycoon and greeneyes18 stand......how about the rest of you? Are dogs MORE important than human beings?

I vote no on so many levels......
"

savetycoon wrote on May 8, 2008 10:00 PM:

" No, i feel sorry for you, becuase you have basicly stated that you would rather have a murder, a rapeist, and child molestor alive, then dogs. And that is wrong. So you are telling me that if your kid, got raped, or murdered, you would still want that person alive, rather then a dog.
thats wrong. not me.

and yes my brother has commented on the other thing about this same subject. And he states the same thing about don't put your kid down if it got in a fight.

"

realitybites wrote on May 9, 2008 4:37 PM:

" To savetycoon:

Your dog was attacked by ONE rot - not FOUR pit bulls.

A dog is not a human - I have no problem with punishing those HUMANS who committ crimes. Doesn't change the fact that a dog's life, though worth something, is not worth a humans life.
"

savetycoon wrote on May 9, 2008 10:18 PM:

" Ok, it doesn't matter how many dogs were there, not all attacked.

The point is, i know what this woman is feeling, but it doesn't change the fact that this happened. i know.

but these dogs don't need to be put down just becuase they got in a street fight with two other dogs.

Im sorry but i just will never agree that these dogs need to be put down, just cuz they got in a fight with this womans dogs. and the only reason this made the news is becuase she ended up with a cut on her hand, from trying to seperate the dogs.

Im am truely sorry this woman went through this, but these dogs don't have to lose thier life over it. Other procations can be done. mussles, warning posters, shock collars around the yard, so they don't get out, registered dangerous dog, etc. "

grapetown wrote on May 10, 2008 1:26 AM:

" I used to hate Pit bulls because I believed everything I read and saw on the evening news. But one day a pit named tycoon was introduced to me 2 years ago He was not like the hideous, vicious monsters I'd been told pit bulls were. He was sweet and friendly. I cared about him! Now I love pit bulls as much as I used to hate them. They are the most sensitive, wear-their-feelings-on-their-faces, loyal dogs you could ask for. Pit bulls were known as fight dogs, but they were also bred to be human friendly. Just because a Pit Bull is aggressive towards other animals (dogs, have a high prey drive) DOES NOT mean that same dog will be aggressive towards people. It is very likely that same dog will jump up on the bed with the kids, roll over and beg for belly rubs. Pit Bulls were bred to be aggressive towards other animals (bulls, dogs). It is perfectly 'normal' for a Pit Bull to be wonderfully affectionate and friendly with people, while at the same time not 100% trustworthy around other dogs and/or small animals.(Especially when the irresponisible neighbors let him with his other dog friends! )The Dogs just got excited and to worked up from being free on their owns AND in a pack together without their owner! If anything the pound is going to realize that individually there is nothing violent about these dogs at all. And that tim needs to get a lock on his gate if he doesnt want all of Napa commenting about his business. "

savetycoon wrote on May 10, 2008 10:10 AM:

" GrapeTown
i couldn't have said it better.
and i Know that my brother doesn't want everyone commenting on his buisness, but i just get upset, when people think they have to talk down apon my brother and his babies.
"

realitybites wrote on May 12, 2008 1:22 PM:

" Who cares why the dogs attacked? I certainly don't. An owner allowed his pit bulls to escape. The dogs attacked the woman while she tried to protect her dogs. It doesn't matter to me how kind pit bulls can be or how sorry the owner is - once bitten, twice shy. It's very fortunate this woman didn't have a child with her along with her dogs. Surely, the pit bulls would have made short work of an infant if it happened to get in between them and "another animal". I'm so tired of hearing about how wonderful these dogs are. I don't care. I care about humans being safe to walk the street - with their dog on a leash - without having to worry about a pack of pit bulls attacking them or their leased animal. Read my earlier posts, if a cow gets out of a fenced pasture and is struck by a car - THE FARMER IS LIABLE! If your dog gets out and attacks - YOUR LIABLE. Clearly, the fact that the dogs got out points to a problem. What will be the excuse the next time they get loose? Why should there be a next time? "

savetycoon wrote on May 14, 2008 8:28 AM:

" There should be a second chance for these dogs, but i promise you there wont be a second attack for tim lottons dogs. now that is more than i can say for the other two pits, that have already done this before. the owner will have his dogs on a strict leash, by having warning signs posted, Gates locked, and no neighbors coming in and out of his house. "

savetycoon wrote on May 28, 2008 8:13 AM:

" And i Have You all Know that We got Our Dogs Back!!!
So all You haters can now pout about how everything you said because we got our dogs back and you can all just be quiet now cuz its done we won and thats that.

MY BROTHER GOT HIS BABIES BACK! "

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