VICIOUS DOG ATTACK!! Lake Deaton

[marlinguy]

My friend and neighbor owns a standard poodle , Lucy, which is the sweetest, most well trained dog I have ever seen. Everyone stops to say HI! to Lucy. Yesterday, another neighbor joined Lucy and her owner for their usual 4 mile walk from our village (Hillsborough) through The Village of Lake Deaton and return. On this particular walk they saw another owner walking his two, large, black Labrador retrievers. When the Labs saw Lucy they launched a vicious unprovoked attack on Lucy badly mauling her. They attack was so vicious the owner could not control them, was dragged to the ground and dragged several feet before he turned loose of his dogs to continue the attack. My two neighbors grabbed the Labradors by their collars and managed to pull them off of Lucy. Luckily they did not turn on them. Lucy was taken to the vet for treatment of numerous puncture wounds and is recovering. Had Lucy been a small dog like many owners have most likely she would have been killed almost immediately. So, Dog Owners, Beware. I ride my bike in that area, I won't any more.

[outlaw]

I always thought Labradors were not aggressive. Big lawsuit.

[gerryann]

That's terrible and very unlike Labradors. Hope Lucy continues to heal. :(

[graciegirl]

I agree about the Labs usually a gentle breed. So very sad to hear this. Hope Lucy heals.

[justjim]

With so many dogs in TV (dog friendly community) I am sure something similar has happen before but not reported on TOTV. Labs are usually friendly---I hope Lucy recovers soon.
Incidents like this makes me think twice about pepper spay or a "club" when out walking.

[billethkid]

Maybe they were Rottweilers!?

[cms36]

Probably has nothing to do with the breed. Something going on in that household to encourage that kind of behavior.

[village dreamer]

if you cant control your own dog............maybe you should not have one?? thank god no one was hurt. I hope your lucy is ok now.

[Taltarzac725]

My friend and neighbor owns a standard poodle , Lucy, which is the sweetest, most well trained dog I have ever seen. Everyone stops to say HI! to Lucy. Yesterday, another neighbor joined Lucy and her owner for their usual 4 mile walk from our village (Hillsborough) through The Village of Lake Deaton and return. On this particular walk they saw another owner walking his two, large, black Labrador retrievers. When the Labs saw Lucy they launched a vicious unprovoked attack on Lucy badly mauling her. They attack was so vicious the owner could not control them, was dragged to the ground and dragged several feet before he turned loose of his dogs to continue the attack. My two neighbors grabbed the Labradors by their collars and managed to pull them off of Lucy. Luckily they did not turn on them. Lucy was taken to the vet for treatment of numerous puncture wounds and is recovering. Had Lucy been a small dog like many owners have most likely she would have been killed almost immediately. So, Dog Owners, Beware. I ride my bike in that area, I won't any more.

Hope your neighbor got the owner of these aggressive dogs to pay for the vet bills. Were these two dogs unleashed?

[goodtimesintv]

It's a matter of time when those or other abused dogs do the same kind of attack at the town squares. I think dogs shouldn't be allowed in the 5-9pm and holiday entertainment, crowded time periods.

Were the police called in the attack above?

[Chi-Town]

The thing I would do now is to file a police report and file for criminal destruction of personal property. That will bring the case to court. The owner of the two dogs would have choices to be made.

[Taltarzac725]

Dog Bite Victim Guide - Steps to Take After A Dog Bite (http://www.dogsbite.org/dog-bite-victim-guide.php)

Thought this might be of help.

[Retiring]

Very sad situation. Personally, I never blame the dog in these cases- I blame the owner. Dogs are dogs, they�re animals and will do what animals do. I have a close friend that works for county animal services and deals with these cases daily. Owners are (very) often in denial about their animals. My dog would never�(obviously he would) or my dog has never�(well he did now) etc etc.

The only way to get through to an owner that is in denial is through the wallet. Cost him money and he�ll listen. I am not saying the owner of these Labs is in denial about his dogs, I�m just speaking in generalities. However, I am curious to hear the Labs owner�s side of the story.

We all hope the poodle recovers completely.

[TVMayor]

Hope your neighbor got the owner of these aggressive dogs to pay for the vet bills. Were these two dogs unleashed?
#1 post, OP

They attack was so vicious the owner could not control them, was dragged to the ground and dragged several feet before he turned loose of his dogs to continue the attack.

[capecoralbill]

I am pretty sure that PEPPER SPRAY is legal in Florida, I think Harbor Freight sells it.

[graciegirl]

My friend and neighbor owns a standard poodle , Lucy, which is the sweetest, most well trained dog I have ever seen. Everyone stops to say HI! to Lucy. Yesterday, another neighbor joined Lucy and her owner for their usual 4 mile walk from our village (Hillsborough) through The Village of Lake Deaton and return. On this particular walk they saw another owner walking his two, large, black Labrador retrievers. When the Labs saw Lucy they launched a vicious unprovoked attack on Lucy badly mauling her. They attack was so vicious the owner could not control them, was dragged to the ground and dragged several feet before he turned loose of his dogs to continue the attack. My two neighbors grabbed the Labradors by their collars and managed to pull them off of Lucy. Luckily they did not turn on them. Lucy was taken to the vet for treatment of numerous puncture wounds and is recovering. Had Lucy been a small dog like many owners have most likely she would have been killed almost immediately. So, Dog Owners, Beware. I ride my bike in that area, I won't any more.



Were these two black labs on leashes? They have to be on leashes in this area.

[marlinguy]

The dogs were on a leash but were so strong and intent on attacking Lucy that he couldn't control them, was actually dragged on the ground for a few feet. The police were called but said there was nothing they could do as the dogs were on a leash,that is until they broke away from the owner. Lucy's owner delivered the vet bill to the owner of the labs. Personally, I agree with several of the other posts, that it is the owners responsibility to train his dogs. And I don't believe that Labradors by nature arbitrarily would attack another dog. I talked with Lucy's owner a while ago. Lucy doesn't want to go out of the house. Can't say I blame her. Will be a long time before Lucy is "Lucy" again. I imagine if it had happened to one of us we would pretty much feel the same way.

[Fredster]

I always thought and still think that Labs are basically a gentle breed,
but a friend had two golden Labs and unfortunately
one of them attacked a neighbors little girl.
As I recall that dog was put to sleep.

[dbussone]

The dogs were on a leash but were so strong and intent on attacking Lucy that he couldn't control them, was actually dragged on the ground for a few feet. The police were called but said there was nothing they could do as the dogs were on a leash,that is until they broke away from the owner. Lucy's owner delivered the vet bill to the owner of the labs. Personally, I agree with several of the other posts, that it is the owners responsibility to train his dogs. And I don't believe that Labradors by nature arbitrarily would attack another dog. I talked with Lucy's owner a while ago. Lucy doesn't want to go out of the house. Can't say I blame her. Will be a long time before Lucy is "Lucy" again. I imagine if it had happened to one of us we would pretty much feel the same way.


At a minimum, animal control should be notified. They may be able to do what the police could not - take the dogs until it is determined that they do not have rabies. Then it becomes a matter of record and a second offense might result in the dogs being put down.

I love dogs but there is no room for vicious animals or an owner who can't control them. The owner is probably lucky he wasn't injured himself.

[Barefoot]

The dogs were on a leash but were so strong and intent on attacking Lucy that he couldn't control them, was actually dragged on the ground for a few feet. Lucy doesn't want to go out of the house. Can't say I blame her. Will be a long time before Lucy is "Lucy" again. Poor Lucy, very sad situation. I hope she heals and gets her confidence back.
I don't know this situation, but in general, people who have no idea how to train large dogs should never have them.

[dbussone]

Poor Lucy, very sad situation. I hope she heals and gets her confidence back.
I don't know this situation, but in general, people who have no idea how to train large dogs should never have them.



Agree 100%. Large dogs are very different from lap dogs like my Harry.

[golfing eagles]

Agree 100%. Large dogs are very different from lap dogs like my Harry.

Moving into Lake Deaton in 2 weeks, about off the route Lucy and owner most likely took. My 10# maltese/poodle mix is well trained and easy to control, but he will "get in the face" of aggressive animals, so thanks for the heads up

[Callaway Guy]

With so many dogs in TV (dog friendly community) I am sure something similar has happen before but not reported on TOTV. Labs are usually friendly---I hope Lucy recovers soon.
Incidents like this makes me think twice about pepper spay or a "club" when out walking.

I do not leave the house with our "girls" without my expandable steel baton. Those will inflict serious damage on dogs, coyotes, bobcats, humans.......

[Fraugoofy]

I am pretty sure that PEPPER SPRAY is legal in Florida, I think Harbor Freight sells it.
Or Amazon. Delivers in about 48 hours if you have Amazon Prime. Costs less than 10 bucks.

[BS Beef]

I'm astonished the police would do nothing. Even if you look at it in a sterile environment it should be damage to personal property (poor Lucy). I understand they were on a leash but the Lab owner failed to control them. And if absolutely nothing else animal control should have been contacted and brought into the situation.

[gerryann]

I've seen pepper spray at Walmart.

Very unlikely but......could Lucy be in heat?

[dbussone]

I'm astonished the police would do nothing. Even if you look at it in a sterile environment it should be damage to personal property (poor Lucy). I understand they were on a leash but the Lab owner failed to control them. And if absolutely nothing else animal control should have been contacted and brought into the situation.


I concur completely.

[KeepingItReal]

The police were called but said there was nothing they could do as the dogs were on a leash,that is until they broke away from the owner.

Once they broke away they were no longer on a leash and were not under control. Police said they couldn't do anything about a semi truck in our neighbors driveway either, said it was a civil matter. Seems the police are telling us they can do very little about most everything anymore..????

[CFrance]

I always thought and still think that Labs are basically a gentle breed,
but a friend had two golden Labs and unfortunately
one of them attacked a neighbors little girl.
As I recall that dog was put to sleep.
Yellow lab; golden retriever

We rented a house in SC next to a couple with two labs. They were rescued at different times, but had formed a pack mentality and would attack any dog that came around. She warned us because we had our golden retriever with us.

She and her husband would walk the dogs separately so they could keep control of them. They would go off in different directions because if the dogs were separated, they wouldn't attack another dog they encountered.

Some dogs will forma a pack and act aggressively toward other dogs as they see them as a danger to the pack. The owner should know this and not take more dog(s) out than he can handle.

I hope poor Lucy will overcome the trauma soon.

[rubicon]

My friend and neighbor owns a standard poodle , Lucy, which is the sweetest, most well trained dog I have ever seen. Everyone stops to say HI! to Lucy. Yesterday, another neighbor joined Lucy and her owner for their usual 4 mile walk from our village (Hillsborough) through The Village of Lake Deaton and return. On this particular walk they saw another owner walking his two, large, black Labrador retrievers. When the Labs saw Lucy they launched a vicious unprovoked attack on Lucy badly mauling her. They attack was so vicious the owner could not control them, was dragged to the ground and dragged several feet before he turned loose of his dogs to continue the attack. My two neighbors grabbed the Labradors by their collars and managed to pull them off of Lucy. Luckily they did not turn on them. Lucy was taken to the vet for treatment of numerous puncture wounds and is recovering. Had Lucy been a small dog like many owners have most likely she would have been killed almost immediately. So, Dog Owners, Beware. I ride my bike in that area, I won't any more.

Dogs are considered property and Lucy's owner may ask Lab's owner to either pay for the vet bills himself or contact his Homeowner Insurance.

For those two neighbors who grabbed those labs by the collar your a better man than me. Perhaps its because I have seen more than my share of the consequences of dog bite-fight results. And always, always the dog owner claims "my dog is not like that" "it would not hurt anyone" What we found following these incidents is that the dog had been beaten, the breed inbred too long, displayed vicious propensities in the past, trained to attack or the dog taunted by the individual attacked.

In my view if those were my labs they be gone or at least retrained at an obedience school. People first always I hope this lab owner keeps his animals away from town squares, stores and restaurants

[Lovey2]

Normally I hate the usual skepticism on this site, but on this particular thread, seems like we are all ready to have the dogs put down, the owner bankrupt, and no need for the actual "first hand" telling. How we know the dogs were abused, or not trained is beyond me. I'm VERY sorry for Lucy, and hope she recovers quickly, but also reserve judgement on the other pet owner and his dogs. They all must have been fairly close to each other..."several feet" is not that much when you're talking large dogs. Maybe all involved should have been more careful here?

[vernettm]

My friend and neighbor owns a standard poodle , Lucy, which is the sweetest, most well trained dog I have ever seen. Everyone stops to say HI! to Lucy. Yesterday, another neighbor joined Lucy and her owner for their usual 4 mile walk from our village (Hillsborough) through The Village of Lake Deaton and return. On this particular walk they saw another owner walking his two, large, black Labrador retrievers. When the Labs saw Lucy they launched a vicious unprovoked attack on Lucy badly mauling her. They attack was so vicious the owner could not control them, was dragged to the ground and dragged several feet before he turned loose of his dogs to continue the attack. My two neighbors grabbed the Labradors by their collars and managed to pull them off of Lucy. Luckily they did not turn on them. Lucy was taken to the vet for treatment of numerous puncture wounds and is recovering. Had Lucy been a small dog like many owners have most likely she would have been killed almost immediately. So, Dog Owners, Beware. I ride my bike in that area, I won't any more.


And the owners of the vicious dogs, not only were not responsible pet owners, but disrespectful human beings. Poor Lucy is suffering because of the carelessness of the owners of the black dogs. Thank God that Lucy was not a little kid, who could have been killed.:(

[CassieInVa]

Well I'm not sure what you mean by all involved should have been more careful? The person walking Lucy, the standard poodle was just walking their dog. I'm not sure what else they could've done? It is not cool that dogs would maul another dog like that. Especially on leash. I was thinking of what I would do if this happened to me. My dog is small and I could pick him up , but that might mean that the two dogs would start mauling me to get to him. Very frightening. I think if you have two large dogs end they are even a little aggressive, you should not walk them at the same time together or have some better way to restrain them to protect others .

We were walking our dog in a grassy area here in the villages and another dog owner with a small cute dog came up to us, said her dog was friendly, and started to chat and at the same time her friendly dog either bit or tried to bite my dog Sue basically was ignoring him. We couldn't be sure if he broke the skin. Of course she said apologized and said wow, he has never done that before. Our dog is super friendly and goes to the dog park on a regular basis and is socialized. Some pet owners are just not responsible.

[Debfrommaine]

Normally I hate the usual skepticism on this site, but on this particular thread, seems like we are all ready to have the dogs put down, the owner bankrupt, and no need for the actual "first hand" telling. How we know the dogs were abused, or not trained is beyond me. I'm VERY sorry for Lucy, and hope she recovers quickly, but also reserve judgement on the other pet owner and his dogs. They all must have been fairly close to each other..."several feet" is not that much when you're talking large dogs. Maybe all involved should have been more careful here?

Well written and thought out.

[twoplanekid]

I would walk my two Rottweilers on a twin leash and watch people move to the sidewalk on the other side of the street. On ice or snow, they could make me slip as their traction was much better than mine. When outside of their fence, they were quite friendly to all except cats, rabbits and squirrels.

[Topspinmo]

So sorry for Lucy, she will probably be traumatized for life and will probably never trust strange dogs again?

My dog was pet rescue and foster dog (giving up several times) she is 17 had been mauled. Records shown this, she even had tooth removed from her skull. My dog is always on leash, she is predator focus due to her breed. Due to her history I have to be on the defense at all times. Somebody walking dog coming towards us I move to the other side of the street for her safety even though she wants to greet with her tail wagging.

IMO most do not understand their dogs. When I see nap raise on back of big dogs and they taking an aggressive stance they are not in friendly mode and I give them space or distance.

Another thing I don't understand why people would have two (or more) large dogs on majority of crackerjack lots sizes. Even CYVs no more that large dog run. But, that's me. Once our pet gone we won't get anymore.

[Barefoot]

I think if you have two large dogs end they are even a little aggressive, you should not walk them at the same time together or have some better way to restrain them to protect others.

We were walking our dog in a grassy area here in the villages and another dog owner with a small cute dog came up to us, said her dog was friendly, and started to chat and at the same time her friendly dog either bit or tried to bite my dog Of course she said apologized and said wow, he has never done that before. Our dog is super friendly and goes to the dog park on a regular basis and is socialized. Some pet owners are just not responsible.

I agree with CFrance that dogs can have a "pack" mentality. If one dog is aggressive, the other can pick up on that aggression. If an owner isn't physically strong enough to restrain two dogs, the dogs should be walked separately.

In Cassie's case above, even small dogs on a leash can be more aggressive because they know they can't run away, and they can feel threatened. This is why most dog parks stipulate "only unleashed dogs" once inside the park. So please be careful when walking your dog on a leash and chatting with friends that have a dog. I trust my dogs implicitly, but I wouldn't allow them to socialize on a leash.

[leftyf]

I am pretty sure that PEPPER SPRAY is legal in Florida, I think Harbor Freight sells it.

Use the wasp spray that sprays 20 feet, it's cheaper and throws a lot bigger spray than pepper spray. Also, it will stop any dog. I carry it on my bike in the water bottle holder (I have 2 holders). For some reason, I have never had to use it. When the dogs see me standing there with the spray can they stop and never get close enough to spray.

[Barefoot]

My dog was pet rescue and foster dog (giving up several times) she is 17 had been mauled. Records shown this, she even had tooth removed from her skull. My dog is always on leash, she is predator focus due to her breed. Due to her history I have to be on the defense at all times. Somebody walking dog coming towards us I move to the other side of the street for her safety even though she wants to greet with her tail wagging.
IMO most do not understand their dogs. When I see nap raise on back of big dogs and they taking an aggressive stance they are not in friendly mode and I give them space or distance.
I'm sorry you say you won't be getting any more dogs. You sound like a knowledgeable and sensible pet owner.
As far as owning a large dog in The Villages, we have a 70 lb rescue, Lollipop.
There is a private dog park on ten acres where dogs can exercise off leash and socialize. We go there daily.

[CFrance]

I agree with CFrance that dogs can have a "pack" mentality. If one dog is aggressive, the other can pick up on that aggression. If an owner isn't physically strong enough to restrain two dogs, the dogs should be walked separately.

In Cassie's case above, even small dogs on a leash can be more aggressive because they know they can't run away, and they can feel threatened. This is why most dog parks stipulate "only unleashed dogs" once inside the park. So please be careful when walking your dog on a leash and chatting with friends that have a dog. I trust my dogs implicitly, but I wouldn't allow them to socialize on a leash.
So true about the leash. I was taking our golden to the pet area at a hotel last week when we met up with an "attack poodle" of about 20 lbs. The owner had two dogs. The other one was fine. He said, "It's only because of the leash, ma'am. If he were off-leash, he would be fine."

I used to walk him down a certain street, but we would meet up with a guy walking three doxies. They would go after Crosby with intent to kill. I think it was fear aggression, but nonetheless, we changed our route. No need for his dogs to feel, or mine to be, threatened.

If we see another dog coming toward us on a walk, we cross the street. You never know.

[TheVillageChicken]

If the Animal Control Manager designates the dogs as dangerous animals, which is pretty much a given since they engaged in an unprovoked attack on a domestic animal, here (https://www.municode.com/library/fl/sumter_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=COCO_CH4ANCO_S4-8DAAN)is what the authorities could do about the situation.

[goodtimesintv]

Normally I hate the usual skepticism on this site, but on this particular thread, seems like we are all ready to have the dogs put down, the owner bankrupt, and no need for the actual "first hand" telling. How we know the dogs were abused, or not trained is beyond me. I'm VERY sorry for Lucy, and hope she recovers quickly, but also reserve judgement on the other pet owner and his dogs. They all must have been fairly close to each other..."several feet" is not that much when you're talking large dogs. Maybe all involved should have been more careful here?

I didn't see anything here that wants "the dogs put down", and "the owner bankrupt".

I think everyone wants that owner to be fined/sanctioned so he either learns to control his dogs or gives them to somebody who can, so that OTHER dogs and people do not get mauled, and are warned about the location!

As for "no need for the actual 'first hand' telling", that's not going to happen, and we don't need "first hand telling" when a responsible person alerts the rest of us about the location of vicious dogs that have attacked passers-by.

Waiting for "first-hand telling" is ridiculous when an alert/warning is warranted.

[golf2140]

Dogs are unpredictable, that's why they should be kept away from the squares. I am a dog lover so don't jump on my frame.

[EnglishJW]

I'm astonished the police would do nothing. Even if you look at it in a sterile environment it should be damage to personal property (poor Lucy). I understand they were on a leash but the Lab owner failed to control them. And if absolutely nothing else animal control should have been contacted and brought into the situation.

We had a very similar experience in New Jersey with our little Yorkie. My wife had him in her arms and on a leash when two pitbulls attacked. Our dog was bitten around the face. The bottom line is that the police would take no action against the owners unless the dogs had bitten a person. There were no city or state laws that applied. The city's animal control office did record the incident but would not take any action unless in was a third incident!

[gerryann]

Dogs are unpredictable, that's why they should be kept away from the squares. I am a dog lover so don't jump on my frame.

This attack has nothing to do with dogs on the square.

[CFrance]

Dogs are unpredictable, that's why they should be kept away from the squares. I am a dog lover so don't jump on my frame.

Ha! I have yet to see a dog act Out at the squares. I have, however, seen many PEOPLE do so. I say ban the people, allow the dogs:-)

[Coal Miner]

It's a matter of time when those or other abused dogs do the same kind of attack at the town squares. I think dogs shouldn't be allowed in the 5-9pm and holiday entertainment, crowded time periods.

Were the police called in the attack above?

Im with you 100%.People with dogs should keep them at home. Why these owners insist on dragging them out into crowed areas defies common sense.

[njbchbum]

Ha! I have yet to see a dog act Out at the squares. I have, however, seen many PEOPLE do so. I say ban the people, allow the dogs:-)

While I am not a fan of dogs in the squares in the evening, I have yet to trip over one or over their leash!

I'd much prefer that we keep out the folks who wear their odiferous fragrances while strollling thru the squares and sitting among the crowd watching the entertainment!

[rubicon]

Normally I hate the usual skepticism on this site, but on this particular thread, seems like we are all ready to have the dogs put down, the owner bankrupt, and no need for the actual "first hand" telling. How we know the dogs were abused, or not trained is beyond me. I'm VERY sorry for Lucy, and hope she recovers quickly, but also reserve judgement on the other pet owner and his dogs. They all must have been fairly close to each other..."several feet" is not that much when you're talking large dogs. Maybe all involved should have been more careful here?

Hi Lovey2:

For the record I did not accuse the owner of the two labs of anything but listed a number of reasons for a dog's behavior that have applied in my experiences. Nor did I say put the dogs down. I did say they would be gone meaning they would not be residing with me as i wouldn't tolerate an animal that would be a risk to people. And I did not say bankrupt the owner but the lab owner is responsible for the damage and should honor his/her obligations.
Dogs will be dogs and that's why it is a dog owners responsibility to have control and restrain of their animals . Based on the OP's description this owner had two powerful dogs that s/he could not control or restrain. We have the dogs leading the owner. Lucy could have been a person and perhaps a young person at that rather than a dog.

This story strikes me as having to be more concerned about dogs in The Villages than coyotes

[gerryann]

Hi Lovey2:

For the record I did not accuse the owner of the two labs of anything but listed a number of reasons for a dog's behavior that have applied in my experiences. Nor did I say put the dogs down. I did say they would be gone meaning they would not be residing with me as i wouldn't tolerate an animal that would be a risk to people. And I did not say bankrupt the owner but the lab owner is responsible for the damage and should honor his/her obligations.
Dogs will be dogs and that's why it is a dog owners responsibility to have control and restrain of their animals . Based on the OP's description this owner had two powerful dogs that s/he could not control or restrain. We have the dogs leading the owner. Lucy could have been a person and perhaps a young person at that rather than a dog.

This story strikes me as having to be more concerned about dogs in The Villages than coyotes

One incident of this sort does not give cause for concern for the entire community. We have over 100,000 people and I've never heard of this happening before......Good grief. Chill!!

[jchase]

Why do you need two dogs? Isn't one enough!

[Lovey2]

Hi Lovey2:

For the record I did not accuse the owner of the two labs of anything but listed a number of reasons for a dog's behavior that have applied in my experiences. Nor did I say put the dogs down. I did say they would be gone meaning they would not be residing with me as i wouldn't tolerate an animal that would be a risk to people. And I did not say bankrupt the owner but the lab owner is responsible for the damage and should honor his/her obligations.
Dogs will be dogs and that's why it is a dog owners responsibility to have control and restrain of their animals . Based on the OP's description this owner had two powerful dogs that s/he could not control or restrain. We have the dogs leading the owner. Lucy could have been a person and perhaps a young person at that rather than a dog.

This story strikes me as having to be more concerned about dogs in The Villages than coyotes

I'm not sure why you think I was writing to or about you in particular. I was not. It was simply the tone of the responses I FELT each time I read the thread. And believe me, I read and reread it time and again. As usual, I probably should NOT have responded at all...it never goes well for me...but I did. I feel terrible for the dog attacked and yet, I still feel bad for the owner of the 2 labs somehow. We DON'T know his animals were not properly trained, we DON'T know if he was amenable to paying the vet bills (as he should have) and we DON'T know how he feels about the whole thing. If he is a true animal lover he TOO feels bad for Lucy and is possibly shocked and saddened by what his loving (to him and in his mind) dogs did to her. The post just automatically accused him of abuse, ill training and how he should be forced to pay. We are dealing with ANIMALS here...no one ever truly knows what they may do (Siegfried and Roy, for example) and I only LIGHTLY suggested maybe dogs should not be expected to "chat nicely" with each other as their humans do. I would no more let another animal approach my cats (just to see what they do, as a friend suggested) than I would blindly walk up to a dog and attempt to pet it. I didn't mean to offend, if I did. I was simply stating MY opinion as so many others do. I pointed my remarks at NO ONE.

[CFrance]

Why do you need two dogs? Isn't one enough!
I guess everyone should've only had one kid, too. Not that it's anybody's business how many kids or dogs another person has.

[Barefoot]

We DON'T know his animals were not properly trained Lovey, I understand that you were trying to give "the benefit of the doubt" to the owner of the dogs that attacked Lucy. And it's commendable to see two sides of every story.
However we can say with certainty that the dogs that attacked Lucy were out of control. Properly trained dogs don't attack other dogs and drag the owner. If they were properly trained, they would respect their owner and listen to his commands.
I believe the owner of the two labs probably feels sick about what happened, and that he will offer to pay for any veterinary care needed by Lucy.
Why do you need two dogs? Isn't one enough!
:ohdear: If I don't tell you how many children or grandchildren to have, or how many golf games is enough, you don't tell me how many dogs I should have.:rant-rave: OK?

[Shimpy]

I do not leave the house with our "girls" without my expandable steel baton. Those will inflict serious damage on dogs, coyotes, bobcats, humans.......


I, as a kid on a motorcycle, got attacked by a dog running out to the street and bit my leg. This was the street I lived on. My father told me to get a water pistol and fill it with ammonia. The next day when the dog again attacked me I sprayed him in the face with ammonia. Looking in the rear view mirror it was very effective. The next day when I rode down that street I saw the dog in the front yard, and when he saw me he ran into the back yard. He didn't want anymore of that ammonia in his eyes.

[Lovey2]

"However we can say with certainty that the dogs that attacked Lucy were out of control. Properly trained dogs don't attack other dogs and drag the owner. If they were properly trained, they would respect their owner and listen to his commands."

I agree...:(
what a terrible situation, for all involved...especially Lucy!

[dirtbanker]

I, as a kid on a motorcycle, got attacked by a dog running out to the street and bit my leg. This was the street I lived on. My father told me to get a water pistol and fill it with ammonia. The next day when the dog again attacked me I sprayed him in the face with ammonia. Looking in the rear view mirror it was very effective. The next day when I rode down that street I saw the dog in the front yard, and when he saw me he ran into the back yard. He didn't want anymore of that ammonia in his eyes.

That would probably work on those ankle biters at the square too!:1rotfl:

[gerryann]

That would probably work on those ankle biters at the square too!:1rotfl:

I'm certain that you are joking. No one has ever been bitten at the squares. Carrying a water pistol with a chemical inside is certainly not a smart thing to do.

[MoeVonB61]

Don't believe it. NO way they were Labradors...must have been a mix...

[RickeyD]

Don't believe it. NO way they were Labradors...must have been a mix...


I agree [emoji106]

[rubicon]

Don't believe it. NO way they were Labradors...must have been a mix...

mrich61

Never say never. Posters have heard me say that there are only four kind of dogs that frighten me big ,little, alive dead.

My cousin was killed in a car accident some years back. My mother and I were visiting my aunt (her sister). We walked in the house and sat down when my mother remembered she forget the Italian Wedding soup she had prepared for my aunt and other visitors .So I drove back to her house picked up the soup and reentered my aunts home when suddenly her pure bred black Lab come at me and put me against the wall. If he bit me where he was looking I'd be a saprano today. That dog met me at the door the first time I entered and it met me at the door the second time I entered.

[RickeyD]

[QUOTE=rubicon;1136184]mrich61



Never say never. Posters have heard me say that there are only four kind of dogs that frighten me big ,little, alive dead.



Show fear to an animal or human and your fears will come true.

[graciegirl]

[QUOTE=rubicon;1136184]mrich61



Never say never. Posters have heard me say that there are only four kind of dogs that frighten me big ,little, alive dead.



Show fear to an animal or human and your fears will come true.


You can swagger like Beyonc� and fly like Superman. Dogs KNOW what you're like.


I am blessed to not have had any negative experiences with dogs. My family taught me early how to approach them. Our daughter was taught the same but got bitten by a dog tethered to a parking meter at Miami University.


She isn't afraid after that experience but it taught us all something. You never know about dogs. But they are usually nicer than some people. I have never met one that I didn't want to know better.

Snakes? I don't care for any. Alligators, no need to bond. Coyotes and bears? Big and bitey looking.

But little kids, dogs, old men and drunks. We seem to get along.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

News Flash - Labs can be very aggressive against other dogs and people. You just never know. Owning two very large dogs and not being able to control them is very wrong. The owner will get sued and his HO insurance will cancel their policy.

[golfing eagles]

News Flash - Labs can be very aggressive against other dogs and people. You just never know. Owning two very large dogs and not being able to control them is very wrong. The owner will get sued and his HO insurance will cancel their policy.

Now there's two huge assumptions

[tuccillo]

There are about a dozen breeds that are recognized as being problematic. Labs are not part of that list and in fact enjoy a reputation for having a good temperament. Any dog can have behavior issues but labs are not known for being aggressive, in general.

News Flash - Labs can be very aggressive against other dogs and people. You just never know. Owning two very large dogs and not being able to control them is very wrong. The owner will get sued and his HO insurance will cancel their policy.

[KeepingItReal]

No one has ever been bitten at the squares.


How could anyone make such a statement, how would anyone possibly know this for certain, is it required that if anyone is bitten they report? Some just say it because that is the way they want it to be even though it cannot possibly be proven.

[graciegirl]

How could anyone make such a statement, how would anyone possibly know this for certain, is it required that if anyone is bitten they report? Some just say it because that is the way they want it to be even though it cannot possibly be proven.





Just guessing she means she hadn't ever heard of anyone being bitten at the squares.




By a dog.

[Barefoot]

There are about a dozen breeds that are recognized as being problematic. Labs are not part of that list .... True, Labs are usually playful with good temperaments.
But any dog can become aggressive depending on how they were raised, whether they've been abused, etc.
Especially when there are two of them - they can develop a "pack mentality" if only one is aggressive.
I love all dogs, but I approach them cautiously.
If I'm out walking our dogs, I prefer to cross to the other side of the road if other dogs approach. Ya never know.

[Barefoot]

How could anyone make such a statement, how would anyone possibly know this for certain, ......

I don't think Gerryann meant the comment as The Last Word on the subject.
I think she just means that she hasn't personally heard of anyone being bitten.
For what it's worth, we've owned a home in The Villages since 2007 and I've never heard of anyone being bitten at a Square.
That doesn't mean it can't happen - occasionally women get groped, drunks fall down, people have public sex, anything is possible.

[gerryann]

I don't think Gerryann meant the comment as The Last Word on the subject.
I think she just means that she hasn't personally heard of anyone being bitten.
For what it's worth, we've owned a home in The Villages since 2007 and I've never heard of anyone being bitten at a Square.
That doesn't mean it can't happen - occasionally women get groped, drunks fall down, people have public sex, anything is possible.

Ha, you're right a whole lot happens at the squares, but I don't think any dog bites.

Some folks just don't want to see dogs ANYWHERE! period!!

This dog fight situation is sad. I doubt if anyone is truly to blame. This may be the first time these Labs acted up. Now he knows. I'm sure the owner of Lucy will get vet bills taken care of and the owner of the Labs knows that he can not takes these guys out together. No need for a law suit unless the Labs owner doesn't pay vet bills. Certainly no reason for the Labs to be put down. Obedience class maybe.

[CFrance]

True, Labs are usually playful with good temperaments.
But any dog can become aggressive depending on how they were raised, whether they've been abused, etc.
Especially when there are two of them - they can develop a "pack mentality" if only one is aggressive.
I love all dogs, but I approach them cautiously.
If I'm out walking our dogs, I prefer to cross to the other side of the road if other dogs approach. Ya never know.
It's not only training or upbringing. Some dogs change over the year (one of our friends' elderly goldens turned into a biter despite his early years and their good care of him), or they are so inbred they end up with issues.

Plus... Despite what Caesar Milan says, not all dogs can be trained out of aggressiveness once it's established.

[redwitch]

There are medical issues that can turn any dog vicious, even labs and goldens, such as a thyroid problem. If one dog acts aggressive, its packmate will usually respond in the same manner. So, it is highly conceivable for two labs to attack another dog. Like Bare, I will usually steer clear of dogs I don't know when walking a dog. I will never go up to a dog to pet it without the owner's okay. These are common sense precautions.

I'm so sorry that this happened to any dog in TV, especially a Standard Poodle (one of my top five breeds). I hope Lucy will get over the trauma and once again be the happy, friendly dog she was before this incident. I also hope the owner of the labs never again walks both dogs at once.

[MSennettfl]

I have experienced 2 vicious labs in Lake Deaton (while on my own lawn) which the owners had a very hard time controlling and when they couldn't get to my 12 week old puppy they started attacking each other! If anyone knows where these labs live I would really appreciate knowing if they are the same ones. When I confronted the owner of the Labs who was struggling just to hold onto the huge dogs, she tried to convince me that they were docile dogs but didn't manage to convince me because as she was saying it the dogs were attacking and biting each other! Very scary!

[RickeyD]

I have experienced 2 vicious labs in Lake Deaton (while on my own lawn) which the owners had a very hard time controlling and when they couldn't get to my 12 week old puppy they started attacking each other! If anyone knows where these labs live I would really appreciate knowing if they are the same ones. When I confronted the owner of the Labs who was struggling just to hold onto the huge dogs, she tried to convince me that they were docile dogs but didn't manage to convince me because as she was saying it the dogs were attacking and biting each other! Very scary!


Maybe these labs are possessed ?

[Northwoods]

I live in this area. I believe Lucy is out walking again. I've heard the 2 "labs" are in fact a lab mix (not purebred). And I've heard the owner is going to get rid of the dog that attacked Lucy.

[rubicon]

[QUOTE=rubicon;1136184]mrich61



Never say never. Posters have heard me say that there are only four kind of dogs that frighten me big ,little, alive dead.



Show fear to an animal or human and your fears will come true.

Beg to differ that is pure folklore beside the animal had my scent the first time
I entered the house. and since he had I was not concerned re-entering a short time later. Here you go blaming the victim

all this has inspired me to change my vocation to DOG WHISPER :D

[BarryRX]

The dogs were on a leash but were so strong and intent on attacking Lucy that he couldn't control them, was actually dragged on the ground for a few feet. The police were called but said there was nothing they could do as the dogs were on a leash,that is until they broke away from the owner. Lucy's owner delivered the vet bill to the owner of the labs. Personally, I agree with several of the other posts, that it is the owners responsibility to train his dogs. And I don't believe that Labradors by nature arbitrarily would attack another dog. I talked with Lucy's owner a while ago. Lucy doesn't want to go out of the house. Can't say I blame her. Will be a long time before Lucy is "Lucy" again. I imagine if it had happened to one of us we would pretty much feel the same way.

I'm not sure I understand the police response. The purpose of keeping dogs on a leash is to make sure they are under your control. The dog owner is responsible for maintaining control of their pet. Even if the dogs were leashed, the dog owner did not maintain control and is now subject to a lawsuit. If he can't control two large dogs, he shouldn't be walking them together. It's the same as a 3 year old girl walking a Mastiff on a leash. Just because the dog is on a leash it doesn't mean she can maintain control.

[lovsthosebigdogs]

Poor Lucy. I hope she has a speedy, uneventful recovery. It is VERY scary when an owner doesn't have control of their dog(s) whether it's a big or small dog. I was out walking my dogs (and yes, I DO see the need to have more than one) and someone with a MUCH smaller dog came by in a golf cart and the dog was on a flexi lead and going bonkers, snarling and barking at my dogs. This other dog was so nuts that it flung itself out of the golf cart at my dogs in a fury and tumbled over and over again behind the golf cart to get at my dogs. The owner was screaming trying to stop the cart. She got burns on her hands from the lead and the dog was bruised. My very large dogs just stood there looking at HER out of control smaller dog and this whole circus act. I couldn't go over to help her or the dog because I didn't want to approach with my big boys and make it worse. I offered to take my dogs home and come back but she said she'd just get her dog and go home and deal with it.
And CFrance, I have also been the target of the 3 looney dachshunds and their attempts to attack or incite my dogs. I also go the other way when I see them.
It's not just big dogs you have to concern yourself with. I have to concern myself with all the small dogs and owners who allow them to approach my dogs and tell me that their small, barking, growling dogs are only curious as they come after my dogs as I walk mine quietly on a leash. Truly, I think each dog owner needs to be cautious and control his/her own dog and not take the word of the other dog owner. I am learning the hard way not to wear rose colored glasses.

[Barefoot]

It's not just big dogs you have to concern yourself with. I have to concern myself with all the small dogs and owners who allow them to approach my dogs and tell me that their small, barking, growling dogs are only curious as they come after my dogs as I walk mine quietly on a leash.Unfortunately some small dogs can be very aggressive and "get in the face" of big dogs.
I think it's a good idea to keep dogs away from other dogs unless they're socializing off leash at a dog park.

[rubicon]

I have experienced 2 vicious labs in Lake Deaton (while on my own lawn) which the owners had a very hard time controlling and when they couldn't get to my 12 week old puppy they started attacking each other! If anyone knows where these labs live I would really appreciate knowing if they are the same ones. When I confronted the owner of the Labs who was struggling just to hold onto the huge dogs, she tried to convince me that they were docile dogs but didn't manage to convince me because as she was saying it the dogs were attacking and biting each other! Very scary!

You may well be right in your assessment. this owner undoubtedly has to walk these talks 2+ times a day and its likely s/he was well aware of their aggressive propensity. I place people over animals and if they were my dogs they wouldn't be for long. It seems these particular animals belong out on a farm or such place. Its also clear that they should never be around places were crowds gather.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Why do you need two dogs? Isn't one enough!

Who are you to judge people if they have two dogs? Were you an only child?
Some dogs suffer separation anxiety issues just like some humans do. Our Cairn Terrier was very depressed after she lost her running mate; we rescued another dog two months later and after a short period of adjustment, she is back to her running around with her new buddy.

[CFrance]

Who are you to judge people if they have two dogs? Were you an only child?
Some dogs suffer separation anxiety issues just like some humans do. Our Cairn Terrier was very depressed after she lost her running mate; we rescued another dog two months later and after a short period of adjustment, she is back to her running around with her new buddy.
Like!

[Kazmi]

^^^:agree::coolsmiley::doggie: like like like

[Barefoot]

Who are you to judge people if they have two dogs? Were you an only child?
Some dogs suffer separation anxiety issues just like some humans do. Our Cairn Terrier was very depressed after she lost her running mate; we rescued another dog two months later and after a short period of adjustment, she is back to her running around with her new buddy. :bigbow:

[chuckandbernice]

When we lived in NC, people did not obey the leash law very well. I was looking for a way to protect our dog and ourselves without injury to the aggressive dog. For about $30 I bought a 2.5 million volt stun gun. When a dog charged at us, I fired the gun and the noise and flash scared those dogs away without any injury. Perhaps I should have tested it on the owner.

[Ravens Fan]

How could anyone make such a statement, how would anyone possibly know this for certain, is it required that if anyone is bitten they report? Some just say it because that is the way they want it to be even though it cannot possibly be proven.



I think you are correct. I can't believe that as long as The Villages have been around, no one has been bit by a dog. I like dogs, even though I don't have one. I just don't have the time for one. I think that the squares should be off limits to dogs, with the exception if it is a work dog. It's just not a place for animals. As a lot of people have said in this entire thread and I believe everyone agrees, dogs can turn on someone quick, even if they are a freindly breed. It is not worth the risk of getting bit and you possibly losing everything you have due to a law suit. While I was in the military, the base mailman was attacked by a dog while delivering mail. The mailman killed the dog by pinning it down and breaking its neck. The home owner tried to sue the mailman and lost. He was counter sued by the mailman and won the case. This was also detrimental to his military career as he was reprimanded for this. Not worth losing everything for things like this. Again, there are places for animals and there are places animals should not be.

[graciegirl]

As in most threads, especially ones with very strong language in the title, we sometimes don't read everything in the thread.


And when it comes to dogs, all threads bring out our hidden or not so hidden feelings about them.


Most people who own dogs here, have been dog owners a long time and it is my experience that most dogs here are well trained...sometimes the owners could use a little more training in self responsibility in picking up after them, but the dogs I have met have been gentle and people friendly.


The dogs I have met out walking, always love a pat and an itch behind the ear after the owner gives their approval. I don't own a dog but I just love them. It is hard for me to understand why people who don't like them at all feel that way.


I am shocked by the comment about the gun. To me it shows terrible inappropriate fear.


I am sure that people have been bitten and other dogs assuredly have been bitten in dog parks here, but judging from this forum with people who have their nose to the ground and their fingers to the keys, it does not appear to be common at all, or we would have heard about it here.

[airstreamingypsy]

First, to Lucy's owner, I know how scary that was. My sweet little Gus, who is a happy go lucky dog, who has always gotten along with other dogs was attacked by a Pit Bull in a dog park in Texas. Gus was not even looking at her, she attacked from behind. It was like nothing I've ever seen..... he managed to get away from her once and she attacked again...... Gus almost lost his eye. The owner was horrified, he paid all the vet bills and never brought her back there again. The good news is, Gus had no lasting trauma, he still the same happy little guy, and gets along with other dogs just fine. I, on the other hand, will never get over it. I'm so happy to know that Lucy will be okay, hopefully like Gus she will not be permanently traumatized. Clearly the two "Labs" should not be walked by someone who isn't stronger than they are. That's a no brainer. Reading the comments they already have two strikes, shame on their owner for putting others in jeopardy. The next time they attack they could maim or worse kill a human.... they certainly will kill a small dog. Time to stop worrying about coyotes, those two "Labs" are a whole lot more dangerous.

[bd20166]

where in particular did this incident occur? That would be helpful to walkers, people with dogs and bike riders.

[Barefoot]

........... I think that the squares should be off limits to dogs, with the exception if it is a work dog.
Our humans bought in The Villages in 2007 because it's a dog-friendly community.
And we sincerely hope that it stays that way!!

Lollipop :doggie:
Biggins :doggie:

[toeser]

I hope you got a name. Please report this to authorities. Those dogs should not be allowed to remain in TV. If they attacked once, they will likely do it again.

[FosterMomma]

I just saw on the news that two men were fighting on a roundabout... maybe we should stop allowing them at the Town Squares as well.

[KeepingItReal]

I just saw on the news that two men were fighting on a roundabout... maybe we should stop allowing them at the Town Squares as well.

Didn't notice where either of them bit the other........

[CFrance]

Didn't notice where either of them bit the other........
No, just used his car to do it.

[geldridge]

As a bicyclist, I discovered a very cheap but effective means of deterring dog attacks. a mixture of 2 parts water and one part ammonia in a spray bottle works wonders! As the dog runs through the mist, it suddenly gets very uninterested in pursuing you. The small amount of the mixture spray is not enough to cause any damage to the animal, but just enough to cause it to have a sneezing fit for about ten seconds.

[golfing eagles]

As a bicyclist, I discovered a very cheap but effective means of deterring dog attacks. a mixture of 2 parts water and one part ammonia in a spray bottle works wonders! As the dog runs through the mist, it suddenly gets very uninterested in pursuing you. The small amount of the mixture spray is not enough to cause any damage to the animal, but just enough to cause it to have a sneezing fit for about ten seconds.

But does it work on coyotes????

[Shimpy]

As a bicyclist, I discovered a very cheap but effective means of deterring dog attacks. a mixture of 2 parts water and one part ammonia in a spray bottle works wonders! As the dog runs through the mist, it suddenly gets very uninterested in pursuing you. The small amount of the mixture spray is not enough to cause any damage to the animal, but just enough to cause it to have a sneezing fit for about ten seconds.

See post #55

[cynkr67]

I agree. It's possible the dogs had never before attacked another animal, but something set them off. May have nothing to do with Lucy either.