A not so warm welcome/ need advice

[Deseylou]

We've all ready had a major run- in with our down the street neighbor.
My hubby was putting out the trash, when our dogs got loose. He had not pulled the door shut all the way.
Our youngest dog, a 100 lb golden retriever saw someone new and went running to say hi.
He NEVER EVER got close to her or touched her,
The neighbor called neighborhood watch, animal control and the cdc because we are still moving in and haven't moved the trailer.
I'm hearing from our direct next door neighbors that we are trouble makers and my dog actually bit her
If that had happened, he would be at animal control and she would have had to go to the ER.
I know the dogs should not have escaped, but he didn't give us a chance to apologize before he went ape crazy
I don't want to have enemies, but he has me so rattled that I'm afraid to step outside because I feel like he's spying on me

[perrjojo]

Oh dear! So sorry you have a neighbor like that! Perhaps you should take cookies and apoliziged, though you really don't owe one.

[wholman66]

There are some of those folks in every neighborhood. They are usually the ones looking for something to complain about and never happy about anything, this is not the norm.

[tippyclubb]

Oh my I am sorry this happened to you. I agree with Perrjojo wait a few days and let the air clear and then go and apologize. If they don't accept your sincere apologies there's not much you can do. I'm sure you will find other neighbors that are easier to get along with. It will all work out, somehow.

[TraceyMooreRN]

Why not just go over to his house and speak with him--or drop off a "Im sorry" card. Regardless if it was an accident or not- the dog got loose. He must have a reason for either being scared or bitter.
Make the first step to fix things- if he doesn't come around--just don't bother. There are a few like that everywhere--except in GILCHRIST 57 ....lol we love all of our neighbors.

[dnobles]

Consider an Invisable Fence We have 2 labs and love our fence. Good luck hopefully this will pass. Most people we meet like dogs

[Indydealmaker]

We've all ready had a major run- in with our down the street neighbor.
My hubby was putting out the trash, when our dogs got loose. He had not pulled the door shut all the way.
Our youngest dog, a 100 lb golden retriever saw someone new and went running to say hi.
He NEVER EVER got close to her or touched her,
The neighbor called neighborhood watch, animal control and the cdc because we are still moving in and haven't moved the trailer.
I'm hearing from our direct next door neighbors that we are trouble makers and my dog actually bit her
If that had happened, he would be at animal control and she would have had to go to the ER.
I know the dogs should not have escaped, but he didn't give us a chance to apologize before he went ape crazy
I don't want to have enemies, but he has me so rattled that I'm afraid to step outside because I feel like he's spying on me

Don't let it get to you. This is the kind of person who you would never normally choose as a friend anyway.

Also, you have according to the "rules" 3 days to move your trailer. That being said, no one has any enforcement powers to make you stick to that. The county does not care unless you block emergency vehicles.

Just curious, are you moving into one of the older neighborhoods?

[Patty55]

I would take the dogs for a lot of neighborhood walks, let the neighborhood see that they are not some free running renegades. Who knows, you might even meet some semi-normal people. Be sure to display your poop bag-LOL.

I wouldn't apologize or offer an explanation. It happens, it's happened to most of us at one time or another.

YOU BE YOU.

[e-flyer]

You find all kinds here at TV. Some are dog lovers, some dog haters, some seem to hate everything or just like to complain, Some love everything and are floating on cloud nine. Hang in there, you will find the majority of folks here are very nice and happy to be living the lifestyle. I agree with the previous post, wait a few days for everything to cool down and have a friendly talk. Hopefully, they will come around and see it wasn't intentional, and find out what wonderful neighbors you will make. If it doesn't work out, just ignore them and live you life to the fullest!

[CFrance]

I like Patty55's idea. Just show the neighborhood that your dogs are well-behaved. I wouldn't try apologizing either. You already did once, and they didn't accept it. Give the neighbor lots of space, and things may change later on. I'd give your direct next-door neighbor a wide berth too! They shouldn't have related the "troublemaker" accusation to you and make you feel even worse.

Dogs do get out every once in a while. We've had two wander into our backyard and were able to reunite them with their owners. A year or so ago our golden also got out the same way yours did, ran three yards down and into our neighbor's garage. Fortunately, she loves dogs. It's pretty embarrassing when you go out of your way to ensure your dog's not causing a neighborhood problem, and then they slither under your radar.

Goldens just want to say Hi. Your neighbor over-reacted.

[mrdarcy]

I agree with Patty55. Just take the dogs on lots of walks so your curmudgeonly neighbors can observe that neither you nor your dogs are a threat to the neighborhood. You are allowed to have dogs and are just now moving in, so you deserve some consideration during this chaotic time. You don't owe your neighbors an explanation. The explanation is obvious, you're not yet settled in. I recommend that you not react to your neighbors' orneriness. Just keep being good neighbors yourselves. There is nothing anyone can do to fix miserable nasty people. If you let them get to you, those type of people will look for ways to turn every situation into a fight. If you steadfastly refuse to react, they have no one to fight with.

[Kirsten Lee]

Don't wait until you get totally settled in to have a party. Your neighbors won't expect your house to be perfect. Go door to door and invite the neighbors to come for a short 2 hour party mid afternoon snack/drink party or an evening dessert party. Maybe serve something from your home state. We purchased a property last summer and did this, Everyone but the single guy came. You will find friendly people.

[ilovetv]

I agree with Patty55. Just take the dogs on lots of walks so your curmudgeonly neighbors can observe that neither you nor your dogs are a threat to the neighborhood. You are allowed to have dogs and are just now moving in, so you deserve some consideration during this chaotic time. You don't owe your neighbors an explanation. The explanation is obvious, you're not yet settled in. I recommend that you not react to your neighbors' orneriness. Just keep being good neighbors yourselves. There is nothing anyone can do to fix miserable nasty people. If you let them get to you, those type of people will look for ways to turn every situation into a fight. If you steadfastly refuse to react, they have no one to fight with.

I like this and Patt55's advice. It sounds like that neighbor was just waiting for something to pounce on, to show her "authority" around the 'hood.

Don't acknowledge they got to you and have you distressed. Don't acknowledge their game, much less play into it.

Just be yourself and be the adult in the situation. But don't give them any ammunition, either.

And show your poop bag in hand so the grouch doesn't call Community Watch complaining of "Intent to not pick up poop". :0000000000luvmyhors

Those grouches are few in number here.

[Count'n the days]

I've been a dog owner and I loved my dogs. They were gentle and lovable dogs that would never hurt anyone.

I've always been careful of dogs but was under the false impression that if you respected their space they wouldn't bother you. That is not true. I was bitten by a dog that worked it's way around several people to get to me and bite my leg. Another time while walking in our neighborhood (not in TV) a dog ran out of it's yard and would have attached me if the owner hadn't rushed to my rescue. Needless to say I do not think of dogs the way I used to.

Perhaps your neighbor has had similar or worse experiences that would explain the initial reaction. If that's the case, hopefully time will let your neighbor know you're a responsible dog owner and your dogs are not to be feared.

Best of luck to both you and your neighbor. I hope it works itself out.

[DianeM]

Just ignore him or really get his goat and say hello any time you can. You've apologized over the incident. Do not continue to apologize or he wins. If all else fails just flip him off.

[uprivergirl]

Sorry your welcome was not good. Maybe the neighbor was just having a bad day. Maybe a good night's sleep will help with the situation. I am just a wannabe TVer and we have our preview next week. I am hoping I will met the friendly people and not the not so nice ones. I hope tomorrow will be a better day for you. Moving is stressful even if everything goes smoothly. Smile and just think your new lifestyle is a reality and enjoy being there.

[Barefoot]

We've all ready had a major run- in with our down the street neighbor.
My hubby was putting out the trash, when our dogs got loose. He had not pulled the door shut all the way.
Our youngest dog, a 100 lb golden retriever saw someone new and went running to say hi.
He NEVER EVER got close to her or touched her,
The neighbor called neighborhood watch, animal control and the cdc because we are still moving in and haven't moved the trailer.
I'm hearing from our direct next door neighbors that we are trouble makers and my dog actually bit her
If that had happened, he would be at animal control and she would have had to go to the ER.
I know the dogs should not have escaped, but he didn't give us a chance to apologize before he went ape crazy
I don't want to have enemies, but he has me so rattled that I'm afraid to step outside because I feel like he's spying on me

Oh Deseylou, don't worry, things will get better.
We have an adorable 70 lb dog, but I realize that a lot of people are afraid of her.
I'm sorry to hear that you had such an unfortunate introduction to your new neighborhood.
Sometimes dogs and cats escape out the front door, it happens.
However if someone is afraid of dogs, I can see where being approached by an unleashed 100 lb dog would be unsettling.
I would definitely knock on his door and apologize.
If the apology is not gracefully accepted, then he is someone you wouldn't want for a friend.
Things will settle down, don't worry, there are many people who love dogs.
Walking your dogs around the neighborhood is a good idea, but please, stay off lawns.
Also, you may want to take your dogs to the private dog park on CR 101. You will meet lots of friendly dog lovers there.

[Pointer]

Friends of mine had to install an invisible fence because their young dog was going across the street and bringing the neighbors dogs toys home to his own yard. "Finders keepers"! The fence solved that problem and now the pup lines the curb with his own tennis balls and stares at anyone who goes by in hopes that someone will throw them, which of course we do. Trained the dog and the neighbors. Sometimes the neighbors bring the dog treats too. Who says you can't teach us old dogs new tricks?

[Villageshooter]

is this new neighborhood? or an established one? if new they will learn about this person, older? then u got some catty folks! just go about your business,, there are many many more nice people here than knuckleheads! however be forewarned knucklehead numbers are on the rise, so just be a good person an ignore them, and you will lending a hand in our crusade to stem the tide in the current rush of knuckleheads. BTW i am not a dog lover , but not a dog hater either. enjoy this is wonderful place!

[jdsl1998]

Just show them you are a good person. Wave when you can. Not that we need a club for it, but most neighborhoods/Villages have a few people who cannot blend. You are not alone. Just as in life pay attention to the positives and wave, long distance, to the negatives.

[NECHFalcon68]

If it was the cranky old oaf who was sitting at the bar in Applebys last week,I'm afraid there is no remedy... unless he moves out.

This guy b**ched and moaned to his (I assume) wife for 30 minutes about someone else's dog being on their property.

Fortunately they left about half way thru our meal....our fault for sitting next to them instead of the two guys with the enlarged ear lobes...

[kittygilchrist]

Understand that few of us have large enough properties for ease and that stress is unavoidable when the population per square mile goes high. It's a set up for aggression vs defense to come from humans.

Your neighbor has a right to private property. However innocently, your dog violated it. Neighbor snaps. Might be a last straw or perpetual battle to keep dogs off the property. Dog urine damages grass, I have learned, just for example why someone would snap, many owners regularly, deliberately, allow their dogs to go several yards into others' lawns. And here come new neighbors with BIG dogs...IN MY YARD ON DAY ONE WITHOUT EVEN A LEASH! I'm nipping this in the bud, by golly.

My view is that neighbor thinks you are just like those other people. Clearly, you are not. Suggest you take a token of peace (food, wine?) to neighbor, apologize for violating their space. Say you have no intention of allowing your dogs in their yard and ask forgiveness.

Couldn't hurt. It sounds like you would rather have peace than start off with an enemy.

[asianthree]

sometimes you just need to walk away..if others are told different stories than and believe than just sit tight..I would not try to smooth it over it. Let them be unhappy and just nasty away

[Taltarzac725]

I would take the dogs for a lot of neighborhood walks, let the neighborhood see that they are not some free running renegades. Who knows, you might even meet some semi-normal people. Be sure to display your poop bag-LOL.

I wouldn't apologize or offer an explanation. It happens, it's happened to most of us at one time or another.

YOU BE YOU.

Really good advice from Patty55. Even among dog owners you may find one who is just looking for something to fight over for the least of reasons. Dogs being dogs mainly.

Just show you can be a very good neighbor to the other neighbors. Some people will complain if there is not enough shade on a wonderful Villages Spring sunny day.

[karostay]

There are some of those folks in every neighborhood. They are usually the ones looking for something to complain about and never happy about anything, this is not the norm.
Plus they go to restaurants and play golf

[dmorhome]

don't waste your time some people are just plain STUPID.we found that out and the cookie's won't help.






Oh dear! So sorry you have a neighbor like that! Perhaps you should take cookies and apoliziged, though you really don't owe one.

[jblum315]

Back in the day (60s) when dogs were allowed to run loose, our big poodle occasionally overstepped his bounds. He always went to the same house because their female had once been in heat. He was once even invited into the house! When he found no attractive scent he would lie in the ditch until we came to pick him up.
Mind you, I do not advocate dogs running loose and I would be upset if a big dog came running at me. But I would just follow Patty's advice and forget it.

[janmcn]

I would just give them a big smile and a "Howdy Do, How are you?" whenever I see them. What's done is done, no reason to rehash the incident.

[buggyone]

One thing that really has not been addressed is how long the trailer has been in the driveway. Naturally, when someone first moves in, a few extra days are allowable due to everything going on - but after about a week, it might look to some that the trailer is going to be a permanent fixture and rumblings could start.

Personally, I always go to a new neighbor's house within a couple of days of seeing them move in with a bottle of wine with one of my calling cards tied to the bottle and welcome them. I did this recently and the neighbor had a 12 week old puppy - who promptly bit my ankle. I had forgot how sharp puppy teeth are! We both laughed it off.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Some people have a fear of dogs especially large dogs. May be they have gotten bit or attacked in the past. Other people look for things and people to complain about. I agree that you should at least confront your neighbor and apologize. At least you will know for sure where you stand with them.

[perrjojo]

Sometimes it never hurts to apologize even if you don't OWE one. As Dr. Phil says, "Do you want to be right or do you want to be happy?" We were welcome to our neighborhood in a similar fashion. Dog got loose and he told neighbors we were going to be a problem. Parked our truck in the street while moving in. Got a nasty gram on the windshield. Parked in the driveway of the vacant home next door while moving in. Got reported for an abandonded car. After about 2 weeks we became good friends. He is just a little weird and insecure so we tolerate his weirdness. As Patty55 said.. You just be you .. but you have to realize that he as just gotta be who he/she is too. Just my 2 cents worth.

[Bonnevie]

once my golden retriever got loose back at my old house and ran to my neighbor who picked up a trash can to defend himself! Jenny just wanted to meet him. That being said, I have met people who have been bit in the past who are terrified of any dog. I do, however, think they totally over-reacted. that being said, I agree with the apology....if they continue to be jerks about it, then as others said, you don't want them as friends anyway. By the way, it took years, but my neighbor became more friendly and was better when I got smaller dogs. Non-dog owners don't realize that despite our best intentions, our dogs can be quite quick getting out of the house despite our best efforts.

[Suzi]

I'm only guessing here but I can only imagine how dumbfounded you were when confronted by an immediate attack from a new neighbor. Almost as though he was just waiting for some infraction of the rules. I would have been hurt by his words and the next-door neighbors explanation too. Listening to your story, I know I would have probably dissolved into tears moving to a new community and being confronted by this hostility. Putting myself into your shoes, I think I would not apologize. I would be sure to walk my dog(s) on a leash with bag-in-hand. If you see any neighbor, I would be very friendly and say hello to everyone and act like nothing ever happened. Be your friendly self and don't lower yourself to their level. I think this will pass and you will become friends with those in your neighborhood who WANT to be friendly. Give it time, finish moving - empty the trailer and remember to have some fun everyday....not just work. Its a great place to live.....you will find that out....give it time and don't worry - you have enough on your plate.

[CFrance]

Friends of mine had to install an invisible fence because their young dog was going across the street and bringing the neighbors dogs toys home to his own yard. "Finders keepers"! The fence solved that problem and now the pup lines the curb with his own tennis balls and stares at anyone who goes by in hopes that someone will throw them, which of course we do. Trained the dog and the neighbors. Sometimes the neighbors bring the dog treats too. Who says you can't teach us old dogs new tricks?

That is such a cute story. But I think it is the dog teaching old people new tricks!:wave:

[justjim]

We've all ready had a major run- in with our down the street neighbor.
My hubby was putting out the trash, when our dogs got loose. He had not pulled the door shut all the way.
Our youngest dog, a 100 lb golden retriever saw someone new and went running to say hi.
He NEVER EVER got close to her or touched her,
The neighbor called neighborhood watch, animal control and the cdc because we are still moving in and haven't moved the trailer.
I'm hearing from our direct next door neighbors that we are trouble makers and my dog actually bit her
If that had happened, he would be at animal control and she would have had to go to the ER.
I know the dogs should not have escaped, but he didn't give us a chance to apologize before he went ape crazy
I don't want to have enemies, but he has me so rattled that I'm afraid to step outside because I feel like he's spying on me

OP, a strange 100 pound dog coming at you would scare a lot of people. I'm sure the neighbor was frighten. He has immediately setup his boundaries and space with the Newbees on the block. Although some disagree, definitely an apology is in order. What happens next is up to your neighbor. Walls and boundaries can come down with the right approach.

Welcome to TV where some like dogs and some don't like dogs. There are many Threads on the subject. I would hit the search link and read some of them to make myself somewhat aware of what has been written regarding dogs in TV.

I'm sure everything will settle in time. Moving is a stressful time. Take some time off and enjoy some of the "better things" going on in TV.

[CFrance]

It looks like the opinion is 50/50 about apologizing. I based my opinion on the assumption that you already apologized when the incident occurred, and the neighbor didn't accept it. In which case I still think you've done enough and can just be as friendly as possible from here on out, keeping your dogs on leashes and NOT letting them stray onto anyone's lawn while walking them.

That's a big-ticket item here. Have your dogs do their business on your lawn before taking them out for walks, especially since it seems like you have landed in one of those neighborhoods whose property owners are touchy about that.

I hope things will settle down from here on out.

[Patty55]

What about the trailer issue? This is not just about the dog. How about having already called animal control? How about lying and saying she was bit?

If it were my dog I'd say chances are we wouldn't end up being friends. That ship has sailed.

[lovsthosebigdogs]

I agree with CFrance that things are about 50/50 as she said with what to do. The good news here is that there seems to be no right or wrong answer so it leaves you to do what is in your heart and do what you feel comfortable doing. If you feel like you need to apologize again, great; if not, then continue on and act like nothing happened while being the best doggy neighbor you can be and take it from there. Either way you are on your way to a great new life and things have a way of working out. I had no idea that Dr. Phil knew my mother because she also used to say, "Do you want to be right, or do you want to be happy?" Two very smart people I guess. I am sure it will all blow over and you will settle into your new neighborhood and new house and things have a way of looking better in time. I am sorry, though, that your arrival had to be tainted by this whole episode and I am hoping you can put it behind you soon and things are already getting better. Welcome to TV.

[keithwand]

Bottom line is your dog got loose.
Everyone is apologetic after the fact but it could be too late. Our neighbors dog would get loose and they told us he would go after our smaller dogs if we were out walking them. They were always apologetic.
It did not affect our relationship but it is up to the dog owner to control.
Bake some cookies and apologize.

[cquick]

I am so sorry! I wish I could fix this for you! What a distressing way to be greeted in your new home. I can only say I hope things settle down soon. Sounds like there might have been problems before you got there.

[buggyone]

I just re-read the original post. It is stated that the 100 pound dog ran up to a passing neighbor. Can we assume barking? The neighbor obviously is unnerved by a big, strange dog running and barking at him. I know I would be! The OP states categorically that the dog did not actually come close to the man.

He then says that man called Animal Control, Community Watch, and the CDD regarding the unleashed dog and a trailer in the driveway. Did the neighbor and the OP have a shouting match to precipitate those calls after the OP got his dog under control? The OP does not say if all 3 entities responded to those calls and, if so, how those encounters went. That is all important information.

Sounds as if tempers on both sides might have flared under the heat of the moment.

Definitely, a peace offering on the part of the OP is warranted (sincere or not) and good neighbors restored.

[Indydealmaker]

Once a "rear orifice" always a "rear orifice". The neighbors attitude has little or nothing to do with a big dog. Apology if it makes the apologist feel better, but it won't change the dynamic.

[ricthemic]

OP has not yet replied. My guess. Preowned

[kittygilchrist]

It looks like the opinion is 50/50 about apologizing. I based my opinion on the assumption that you already apologized when the incident occurred, and the neighbor didn't accept it. In which case I still think you've done enough and can just be as friendly as possible from here on out, keeping your dogs on leashes and NOT letting them stray onto anyone's lawn while walking them.

That's a big-ticket item here. Have your dogs do their business on your lawn before taking them out for walks, especially since it seems like you have landed in one of those neighborhoods whose property owners are touchy about that.

I hope things will settle down from here on out.
CF, The OP didn't say he apologized. He said the neighbor called authorities before he had a chance to apologize. You can read that either way, I took it to mean all hell broke loose and the OP holed up in the house afraid of what might happen. It's really not a scary place to live, but I'm sure it seemed like it.

[Deseylou]

OP HERE
The dog did not get too near the neighbors wife
He stopped a driveway before
We tried to apologize, but neighbor was screaming and cursing at us
The trailer issue has been taken care of.
We're both working FT and trying to move
I admit the trailer was pushed to the back burner
And we honestly didn't realize it was a problem
Thanks for all your kind words
I have been a wreck and not sleeping since this all happened

[CFrance]

Okay, kitty, thanks. Maybe OP did not have a chance to apologize, in which case an apology might be helpful.

Buggy, the only thing I can say is that we've had two goldens, dog-sat two before that, frequently, and have known a ton of them... and they are not barkers. Most likely tail was wagging, mouth was open with tongue hanging out, and dog was bounding in joy over his freedom, as opposed to zeroing in for a fight.

I'm not saying someone not familiar with goldens shouldn't be frightened. I totally understand that. I'm just saying my bet is the dog was not presenting in an aggressive manner. It's just not in their nature when interacting with humans.

It's unfortunate that the dog got out, and a good lesson to whoever (whomever?) didn't shut the door properly.

[gerryann]

Buggy, the only thing I can say is that we've had two goldens, dog-sat two before that, frequently, and have known a ton of them... and they are not barkers. Most likely tail was wagging, mouth was open with tongue hanging out, and dog was bounding in joy over his freedom, as opposed to zeroing in for a fight.


So funny. My golden also rarely barked. Just wanted to be everyone's friend. Had a beautiful golden across the street from me here in TV. He got out once in a while and always galloped over to visit me......loved, loved that dog. I will admit though, if one is not a dog lover, a large dog like a golden can be intimidating.

[Worthy pond]

So sorry this happened! Not the norm in the Villages...I think there are more dogs thn residents!! Move on, the majority are reasonable friendly folks...it will work out! Welcome to the Villages!

[kittygilchrist]

OP HERE
The dog did not get too near the neighbors wife
He stopped a driveway before
We tried to apologize, but neighbor was screaming and cursing at us
The trailer issue has been taken care of.
We're both working FT and trying to move
I admit the trailer was pushed to the back burner
And we honestly didn't realize it was a problem
Thanks for all your kind words
I have been a wreck and not sleeping since this all happened

thanks for checking in here. I once hit someone with my car. It was my fault. While I asked if she was ok, she screamed "You HIT me!!"....
I can see where she was coming from. It was not a time she could hear an apology. All her buttons were pushed and I was the person who threatened her survival. Little ol' innocent kind well-meaning me. I made a mistake and she was bent out of shape. Bottom line is I did threaten her survival.

[rockyisle]

So, for what it's worth - after reading your original post and your latest explanation... here's what I'd do. I would follow the advice of our "sages" here on TOTV. I would take this dog for a walk in the neighborhood often - waving to neighbors and saying hello. I would also stop by your neighbor's house (without the dogs) and offer a formal apology. That's really all you need to do. Put a big smile on your face - bring cookies or a box of chocolates - explain that it was a mistake and that the dogs really are friendly and sweet - that you understand that it would have been frightening to have a big dog run up without introduction. I think we all wish you luck in your new home and neighborhood. We'll hope that in the coming months you all become good friends and can laugh about this...

[kittygilchrist]

So, for what it's worth - after reading your original post and your latest explanation... here's what I'd do. I would follow the advice of our "sages" here on TOTV. I would take this dog for a walk in the neighborhood often - waving to neighbors and saying hello. I would also stop by your neighbor's house (without the dogs) and offer a formal apology. That's really all you need to do. Put a big smile on your face - bring cookies or a box of chocolates - explain that it was a mistake and that the dogs really are friendly and sweet - that you understand that it would have been frightening to have a big dog run up without introduction. I think we all wish you luck in your new home and neighborhood. We'll hope that in the coming months you all become good friends and can laugh about this...

and that's really what we're all about. good synopsis.

[travelguy]

dont let it get to you. those neighbors seem like jerks. rather than act civilized and find out what went on they immediately went nuclear. be glad they were not carrying a firearm!

[Maryc7878]

You made a mistake, you apologized. You meant no harm and no harm occurred. Let it go. There are so many more wonderful people here. Ignore the bad and enjoy the good. And if you want a great place to run your Golden go to Doggie Do Run Run. It is a park off of 466, take a turn at CVS onto CR 101. Go about a mile it will be on your right. Cost $3 or $25 per month. It is about 10 acres and lots of great dogs and owners go there daily. And if you see a big black lab named Robbie, say Hi.

[Bonanza]

Some people have a fear of dogs especially large dogs. May be they have gotten bit or attacked in the past. Other people look for things and people to complain about. I agree that you should at least confront your neighbor and apologize. At least you will know for sure where you stand with them.

Your neighbor's behavior was complete overkill by calling all those authorities. I can guarantee that there are others close by, who have had problems with this same person.

I would knock on their door and apologize one time, not because you actually owe them this. I agree with TNLAKEPANDA that then -- you will know exactly where you stand and will have insight into the kind of person (s?) they are.

I hate saying this, but you may have to walk on your tippy toes when you see them. Just be aware and consider the source.

[kittygilchrist]

Lots of ways to look at this..

The new neighbor: broke rules for how long to leave trailer, broke rules for dogs running loose, posted a complaint on TOTV against his community in first week living there.

The old neighbor: did not bother to go meet the neighbor moving in, reported two violations of rules.

We don't know who started what in the shouting match or the tone people took.
to date, as far as we know, neither neighbor has apologized.

This is just my perspective, mind you, and is based entirely on one side of the story: one neighbor reported to authorities for infractions of rules, the other reported said neighbor to the public as a bad neighbor...

[rubicon]

Time is a healer and I believe the OP should give her neighbor space and let nature take its course.

Having said that my reaction would have been the same in some ways but not others. I won't bore you with details but my life experiences taught me to be alert around dogs not known to me. so I would have been upset and concerned about a large dog charging at me and since I have a fear of dogs I wouldn't know if the approach by this animal was friendly or not. I do not curse and I do not shout at people. However, I would stay away from this dog owners household.

Like most people here I take extra measure to keep my property in pristine shape. I deplore seeing vehicles parked outside and I follow rules that I agreed to when I moved here.

In other words I am sensitive to the concerns of people around me and do not wish to offend in anyway.

[CEWLLW]

I am so sorry you received this kinds of welcome. Anyone unable to befriend a golden probably isn't worth being friends with. All the feedback you are receiving is correct; there are people just looking for problems. Hopefully you'll find other neighbors who will embrace you and your dogs.

[Lauren Sweeny]

There is one on every block ( even in The Villages) We have had bad experiences from un named neighbor but took the high road and basically are civil (when not ignoring) We continue to be courteous and friendly (if not down right charming ) to all the surrounding neighbors. We always walk dogs around the block,talking and waving to anyone. Contact us for dog loving new friends!

[ilovetv]

There is one on every block ( even in The Villages) We have had bad experiences from un named neighbor but took the high road and basically are civil (when not ignoring) We continue to be courteous and friendly (if not down right charming ) to all the surrounding neighbors. We always walk dogs around the block,talking and waving to anyone. Contact us for dog loving new friends!

No, there's not one on every block in our neighborhood and many others in TV. The o.p.'s situation is not the norm. I think that neighbor was waiting for something to pounce on and the dog was just what she'd been hoping for.

And we've only heard one side of the story as Kitty said. It does sound like the neighbor is more aggressive than the o.p.

[Barefoot]

.... I once hit someone with my car. It was my fault. While I asked if she was ok, she screamed "You HIT me!!"....
I can see where she was coming from. It was not a time she could hear an apology. All her buttons were pushed and I was the person who threatened her survival. Little ol' innocent kind well-meaning me. I made a mistake and she was bent out of shape. Bottom line is I did threaten her survival.

Kitty, you never fail to amaze me with your posts.
You've had some very interesting life experiences, which you're forthcoming enough to share with us.

[Lynn222]

Oh dear! So sorry you have a neighbor like that! Perhaps you should take cookies and apoliziged, though you really don't owe one.

Great suggestion!

[rubicon]

It causes one to pause to see that some people actually believe that animals and humans are equal in all ways and as such everyone just has to tolerate their misbehavior. And yet some of these same people have said on this very thread rudeness by people shouldn't be tolerated.

Logic would dictate that the animal's behavior mimics that of its owner.

[coconutmama]

A few years ago, one of our new neighbors had a Rottweiler (sp?) that got loose while I was out gardening in my yard. She is a love, but I did not know that at the time when she came bounding over to me. Being a dog owner myself, I was not panicked, but was a bit nervous because of her breed & because I had not met her yet. It was just a slice of life that ended well, but may not have...

I agree with both of Patty55's posts & also one of the others that recommended being friendly to all the neighbors with a wave. I would not bother to apologize now. It is water over the dam at this point. Just move forward showing all that you are a friendly, responsible neighbor.

Welcome to The Villages. You will love it here!

[George Bieniaszek]

Oh dear! So sorry you have a neighbor like that! Perhaps you should take cookies and apoliziged, though you really don't owe one.

If the cookies and apology doesn't work, mail them a box of EXLAX!! :)

[CFrance]

I like Patty55's idea too, and also agree that you don't owe anymore apologies. I just moved here too, and have 'vocal' dogs when I am walking them.. I have been told by more than one person their behavior wasn't acceptable. I wish you lived close to ME.. we could take our dogs for walks together! Your big ones and my two little ones (that bark at everyone) would REALLY be the talk of the neighborhood!

People complain to you because your dogs are barking while walking? Sheesh. That's utterly ridiculous. It's not like you're parking them at the end of their driveway so they can bark incessantly.

There's a couple of doxies around the corner and down a street from us who, when they pass Crosby on his walk, go into a fear-aggressive attack frenzy. At first we would stay on our side of the street and just keep moving. After learning that they're not going to get used to him, we now take a different route. Life is too short for all this angst.

[robertj1954]

Sorry to learn about your first impression that was NOT so good. But give it some time and the over whelming majority of Village friendliness will put that memory in the distant past. Too many good things here in the Villages to allow for one negative encounter to ruin your happy retirement. Best wishes!

[buggyone]

The OP has not mentioned if Community Watch, Animal Control, or CDD responded to the calls the neighbor made and what, if anything, they said to do.

Was there any two way confrontation between the OP and the neighbor when the dog was back in control of the OP?

Just wondering - no accusations either way.

[CFrance]

The OP has not mentioned if Community Watch, Animal Control, or CDD responded to the calls the neighbor made and what, if anything, they said to do.

Was there any two way confrontation between the OP and the neighbor when the dog was back in control of the OP?

Just wondering - no accusations either way.
Yes, please tell us the rest of the story. I'm particularly interested in what CW would do. I'm guessing just an admonition, like--watch your dog more carefully?

[Barefoot]

We've all ready had a major run- in with our down the street neighbor.
Our youngest dog, a 100 lb golden retriever saw someone new and went running to say hi. He NEVER EVER got close to her or touched her,
The neighbor called neighborhood watch, animal control and the cdc because we are still moving in and haven't moved the trailer.
I'm hearing from our direct next door neighbors that we are trouble makers and my dog actually bit her
If that had happened, he would be at animal control and she would have had to go to the ER.
I know the dogs should not have escaped, but he didn't give us a chance to apologize before he went ape crazy
I don't want to have enemies, but he has me so rattled that I'm afraid to step outside because I feel like he's spying on me

Please let the TOTV readers know how you decided to handle the situation with your irate neighbor.
We are interested and supportive.
I hope the rest of your neighbors have been welcoming,
and that you're feeling more comfortable in your new home.