Entitled jerks

[BrianL]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

[dtennent]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

Don’t let him dump his anger on you. If you have seen the movie “Spirited”, turn to him and say “Good Afternoon “ then walk away. Much nicer than using his language.

[Byte1]

That's life. Some folks are miserable all their lives and wish to take it out on others that they feel superior to in some way. Not much you can do about it, so why let it aggravate you further? No matter how you assert yourself, it will just worsen the situation, unless you just let it go. Of course, if you think you might run into that guy again, that would be a different matter. You would need some information on his identification so that you could complain to animal control. I don't think there is any law against calling you a name, so his bad manners and foul mouth is his right to free speech. My problem in this case would be that I would probably get angry and that would make one or both of us have a bad day. Unfortunately, having your hands full with a small animal makes it difficult to properly counsel the guy on his bad conduct. He is just a dog bite away from being jerked into court for his stupid neglect. Advice? Forget about it.

[Velvet]

Take a picture of the situation with your phone - if you do a video you’ll get the comment too. For further reference.

[Two Bills]

Take a picture of the situation with your phone - if you do a video you’ll get the comment too. For further reference.

............and possibly walk home with an Apple sticking out of your butt!:eek:

[GpaVader]

Is this really any different than getting flipped off while you are driving? You did the right thing and said something, but you weren't going to change his mind and it's really not ruining the rest of day over. Now if you see him all the time, that's a different matter. If it's a schedule, you can always call community watch and let them deal with it...

[Hape2Bhr]

I wonder if he walks his dogs in crowded town squares too?

[Ecuadog]

At one time, my wife had to deal face-to-face with the public. Occasionally, she'd have to put up with a really nasty type. As the jerk was leaving, she would smile and say, "Drive safely now."

[Velvet]

............and possibly walk home with an Apple sticking out of your butt!:eek:

And a guy arrested next for assault?? LOL

[Battlebasset]

I was golfing last week, and I and one of my foursome were in the sand trap. I popped out, and quickly stepped out of the trap and out of the way so the other player could complete his shot, as he was further behind me. Someone walking by on the path yelled "Hey! Are you going to rake that trap?!"

Some people have far too much time and entitlement on their hands.

[John-US]

You need multiple surgeries to sew you back up and they can't find the guy. So it's BEST to not say anything. pick up your dog as you have and move on. Confronting anyone is dangerous now. (you have no idea what they are on and what they have to end you at that very moment)

[Taltarzac725]

Was this a young guy? Older? What kind of dogs?

Others should avoid him if we have a description online.



This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

[JMintzer]

I wonder if he walks his dogs in crowded town squares too?

No, those dogs are on a leash... :icon_wink:

[tophcfa]

In my younger days I’d drop him on the spot, but then again I always seemed to somehow be in some kind of trouble. Now, I would just smile and say it takes one to know one : )

[Velvet]

You need multiple surgeries to sew you back up and they can't find the guy. So it's BEST to not say anything. pick up your dog as you have and move on. Confronting anyone is dangerous now. (you have no idea what they are on and what they have to end you at that very moment)

Sorry, I don’t believe that, not until we all start living under Communism.

[chrissy2231]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.
have empathy - it's someone suffering from childhood issues needing forgiveness

[Velvet]

‘have empathy’ I just have this vision; throwing holy water on the perp and the dogs, and yelling, “I forgive you!” Might work, who knows?

[Caymus]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

You must not be from the Northeast part of the country. :D

[MsPCGenius]

What you experienced was Path Rage --- similar to Road Rage, only different :D

Seriously, I would have had a very nasty conversation with him in my head, but said nothing. It's not worth the risk of putting yourself in harm's way. Nothing you say or do is going to change how this idiot views the world or behaves in similar future situations. Save your breath and enjoy the rest of your day....

[BrianL99]

I was golfing last week, and I and one of my foursome were in the sand trap. I popped out, and quickly stepped out of the trap and out of the way so the other player could complete his shot, as he was further behind me. Someone walking by on the path yelled "Hey! Are you going to rake that trap?!"

Some people have far too much time and entitlement on their hands.

I would have said something to you, too. Raking Bunkers is common courtesy, as is not being in front of (or closer to the green in the area of play), when someone is making a shot.

[BrianL99]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

I had the EXACT same experience this morning (Tuesday), near the Atlas Canine Park (before it opened). Some lady gave me some crap, when I politely mentioned that unleashed dogs were not allowed. I gave it right back to her in spades, took her photo and called Community Watch. Community Watch told me to call Lake County Police Department, but if I didn't have the woman's name and address, there's nothing they could do. I later called the District Office, who told me to call the nearby Rec Center.

The rules are only for *some* people, apparently not for everyone.

[Boomer]

As Mark Twain said, "Never wrestle with a pig. You will get dirty and the pig enjoys it."

Seriously, I would never engage with someone who acts like that.

A lot of rude, crude, angry, unhinged behavior has crawled out from under the rocks over the past few years.

The off-leash guy was probably, on some level, hoping somebody would "notice" him and say something.

Just walk on by next time.

Boomer

[tophcfa]

Seriously, I would have had a very nasty conversation with him in my head, but said nothing. It's not worth the risk of putting yourself in harms way..

I wouldn’t be concerned about getting hurt in a tussle, but I’d be petrified about winding up in the ER of the Villages hospital.

[Taltarzac725]

You never know who might be carrying here in the Villages. And I do not mean weed.

[Velvet]

You never know who might be carrying here in the Villages. And I do not mean weed.

Wise words.

[Two Bills]

In my younger days I’d drop him on the spot, but then again I always seemed to somehow be in some kind of trouble. Now, I would just smile and say it takes one to know one : )

The good old days!! :thumbup:

[bowlingal]

take his pic and bring it inside and give it to Mike ( rec center manager) and then post it on *************.com

[jswirs]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.
I don't know about other folks, but I have been accosted by several entitled jerks in the villages while minding my own business, (not worth mentioning here). So, after 2 or 3 times I became tired of the abuse, and so, a standard answer of mine would have been "You forgot to take you medicine again, didn't you"! If that answer esculates the situation, so be it. We all have our limits, and I have reched mine with these entitled jerks. Remember, YOU are in the right.

[Siegfried]

Point out that he used an incomplete sentence.

[Worldseries27]

this morning my wife and i took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the lake minion rec. Center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "some people should be on a leash." the he turned around and yelled, "mother fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should i have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of the villages is in a county with leash laws.
the offender is probably a creature of habit. Surveil the parking lot and see if you spot him with his dogs. If you do take a pic of his license plate. That's all you'll need to process a case of menacing. Free speech does not permit intimidation. the police will question him and even if he walks he's been id'd. Up to you . Be sure your up for this.

[Two Bills]

I don't know about other folks, but I have been accosted by several entitled jerks in the villages while minding my own business, (not worth mentioning here). So, after 2 or 3 times I became tired of the abuse, and so, a standard answer of mine would have been "You forgot to take you medicine again, didn't you"! If that answer esculates the situation, so be it. We all have our limits, and I have reched mine with these entitled jerks. Remember, YOU are in the right.

Believe me. Not if you throw the first one.

[Battlebasset]

I would have said something to you, too. Raking Bunkers is common courtesy, as is not being in front of (or closer to the green in the area of play), when someone is making a shot.

Which I did as soon as he made his shot, and I made mine first in order to keep play moving, as he moves a bit slower than the rest of us. He also left the trap via where I had been, in order to cause as little damage to the trap as possible, and reducing the amount of raking needed. Have a nice day.

[Love2Swim]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

So sorry you had to endure that. There are some real jerks around, we've all encountered them.

[me4vt]

It’s never the dogs fault…….. Now for him, he’d still be picking himself up off of the ground;)

[Dilligas]

I was golfing last week, and I and one of my foursome were in the sand trap. I popped out, and quickly stepped out of the trap and out of the way so the other player could complete his shot, as he was further behind me. Someone walking by on the path yelled "Hey! Are you going to rake that trap?!"

Some people have far too much time and entitlement on their hands.
That was because most of The Villagers on executive and championship courses feel raking the traps is beneath them.

P.s. did you leave the trap better than you found it?

[talonip]

Is this really any different than getting flipped off while you are driving? You did the right thing and said something, but you weren't going to change his mind and it's really not ruining the rest of day over. Now if you see him all the time, that's a different matter. If it's a schedule, you can always call community watch and let them deal with it...
Got a guy in my neighborhood that doesn’t leash up. Saw his dog scare the hell out of some gal walking her dog. Saw this guy out one day when community watch drove by. I stopped him and he told me he can’t do anything. Call wildwood police

[ex34449]

I think you should have kept your mouth shut personally.

[Bikehike]

This might be unpopular but the only reason you spoke to the stranger was to protect your scared dog. Maybe don't take the dog to a crowded place so she is ok. People that don't use leashes are going to be loud and proud about it and you are not going to change their minds. They could probably tell that you were concerned by the way you picked up your dog to protect her.

[Travelhunter123]

Is this really any different than getting flipped off while you are driving? You did the right thing and said something, but you weren't going to change his mind and it's really not ruining the rest of day over. Now if you see him all the time, that's a different matter. If it's a schedule, you can always call community watch and let them deal with it...

I think you have to call animal control or the police. Not sure if community watch can help

[Pmota]

Is this really any different than getting flipped off while you are driving? You did the right thing and said something, but you weren't going to change his mind and it's really not ruining the rest of day over. Now if you see him all the time, that's a different matter. If it's a schedule, you can always call community watch and let them deal with it...

That would be a waist of time.
Couple weeks ago I was walking my dog around our neighborhood when my neighbor’s dogs (small dog and a big dog-boxer) took off and came toward me and my dog.
The little one barked a few times but the big one went toward my dog and almost bit her if I hand”t moved her to my side and yelled at the dog to back off. The owner came running out, yelled at the dog and had a heck of the time getting control of the animal. I told him he better get control and make sure his dog is on a leash; he looked at me and walked away without saying “I’m sorry” or “is your dog ok?”. No my dog is not ok since this happened; she is a sweet very friendly lab that loves everyone and never had any issues with other dogs/animals.
Referring to your comment about calling The Villages Watch? Waist of a time because when my incident happened I was basically told that I had to call outside authorities to take care of this.
If that is the case, why have them? All I needed was for some to come and talk to the guy and remind him about the leash law - there is one in the villages right?

[Sandy and Ed]

This might be unpopular but the only reason you spoke to the stranger was to protect your scared dog. Maybe don't take the dog to a crowded place so she is ok. Also maybe secure your dog for her safety before engaging with a stranger. People that don't use leashes are going to be loud and proud about it and you are not going to change their minds.
Yeah but you might want to refresh their memory in case they forgot they were butt holes that think rules regulations and laws are meant for everyone else. Personally anywhere else that “MF” comment would be a definite invitation to give him a 2x4 smile

[rsmurano]

I would have called him something worse back to him. Why let him have a good day? Then I would be around that area the next few days without my dog sitting on a bench ready to video him with his unleashed dogs and send it in to animal control and take the picture into the sheriff’s office telling them he threatened you with verbal abuse.

[Sandy and Ed]

That would be a waist of time.
Couple weeks ago I was walking my dog around our neighborhood when my neighbor’s dogs (small dog and a big dog-boxer) took off and came toward me and my dog.
The little one barked a few times but the big one went toward my dog and almost bit her if I hand”t moved her to my side and yelled at the dog to back off. The owner came running out, yelled at the dog and had a heck of the time getting control of the animal. I told him he better get control and make sure his dog is on a leash; he looked at me and walked away without saying “I’m sorry” or “is your dog ok?”. No my dog is not ok since this happened; she is a sweet very friendly lab that loves everyone and never had any issues with other dogs/animals.
Referring to your comment about calling The Villages Watch? Waist of a time because when my incident happened I was basically told that I had to call outside authorities to take care of this.
If that is the case, why have them? All I needed was for some to come and talk to the guy and remind him about the leash law - there is one in the villages right?
Would be a great idea to have more signage to remind folks to leash their dogs. Might also be time for the “Sun” to run a piece on the leash laws and potential fines.

[Travelhunter123]

As Mark Twain said, "Never wrestle with a pig. You will get dirty and the pig enjoys it."

Seriously, I would never engage with someone who acts like that.

A lot of rude, crude, angry, unhinged behavior has crawled out from under the rocks over the past few years.

The off-leash guy was probably, on some level, hoping somebody would "notice" him and say something.

Just walk on by next time.

Boomer

I agree it’s better not to have a confrontation
Perhaps a video and phone call to the rec center and animal control will alert others as to the rules.
Dogs off leash are capable of hurting other dogs or people and should not be tolerated
Ignoring, loose dogs can be construed as tacit approval

[Travelhunter123]

Got a guy in my neighborhood that doesn’t leash up. Saw his dog scare the hell out of some gal walking her dog. Saw this guy out one day when community watch drove by. I stopped him and he told me he can’t do anything. Call wildwood police

So disappointing! I’m not sure what the role is of community watch.

[Travelhunter123]

That would be a waist of time.
Couple weeks ago I was walking my dog around our neighborhood when my neighbor’s dogs (small dog and a big dog-boxer) took off and came toward me and my dog.
The little one barked a few times but the big one went toward my dog and almost bit her if I hand”t moved her to my side and yelled at the dog to back off. The owner came running out, yelled at the dog and had a heck of the time getting control of the animal. I told him he better get control and make sure his dog is on a leash; he looked at me and walked away without saying “I’m sorry” or “is your dog ok?”. No my dog is not ok since this happened; she is a sweet very friendly lab that loves everyone and never had any issues with other dogs/animals.
Referring to your comment about calling The Villages Watch? Waist of a time because when my incident happened I was basically told that I had to call outside authorities to take care of this.
If that is the case, why have them? All I needed was for some to come and talk to the guy and remind him about the leash law - there is one in the villages right?

I guess they just “watch”

[ThirdOfFive]

A few years back (not in TV) a woman along with her dog got out of her car at a house across the street and stood there chatting with apparently a friend who lived there. I was raking leaves at the time. All of a sudden her dog beelined toward me barking. No idea what set it off. I held it off with the rake while the woman walked (yep, walked) over and subdued it. I very calmly told her "you know, if that dog actually attacked me, I'd have shot it. I do have that right, you know".

She have me a shocked look, spun on her heel and left my yard about twice as fast as she had approached it.

[WingedFoot78]

Is it true that people who own Premier homes do not have to rake traps after hitting out of them? I heard that somewhere.

[BBmac]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

You ask what you should have done. The answer to your question depends on where you want to end up. If you want to live your life as stress free as possible your best bet is to avoid confrontation with no comment on the status of the leash and forgot about him the moment he passes you on your walk.

If you want him punished for his complete disregard of the existing leash laws you have several posts on possible courses of action. This may require substantial time and effort on your part. Is that how you want to spend your time?

Leash laws were enacted due to irresponsible pet owners. Not every dog needs to be on a leash all the time. My wife and I walk/hike in many areas where dogs are not required to be on a leash. This is very enjoyable for us and the dog. If we are walking by ourselves with no one around does our dog need to be on a leash? According to the law the answer is clearly yes.

I find it interesting that some folks (I am not implying you) think that some laws should be followed 100% of the time but others not so much. In The Villages virtually every golf cart is set to run above 20mph yet the law is clear on this subject. Stop signs have become yield signs and most folks drive their cars above the speed limit on a daily basis.

[WingedFoot78]

If he had been carrying & using weed, the incident might never happened.

[airstreamingypsy]

What would I have done? You said nothing about the other dogs doing anything aggressive, only the owner was aggressive. As long as the unleashed dogs weren't doing anything wrong I would have minded my own business. Not everyone obeys every law, it's not my place to correct them.

[Black Beauty]

you're a master of your words...........until you speak them...

[Jdburns11]

There are plenty of self-entitled jerks around… and some feel the world revolves around them in every way, shape and form that doesn’t comport to exactly what should benefit them.

Let them stew in their own toxic poison…. Don’t let them pass that on to you!

[sallyg]

He is, as you said, an entitled jerk. His overreaction clearly shows he knows he was in the wrong. His dogs were better behaved than him. I hope you never run into him again, but would start carrying pepper spray just in case.

[Worldseries27]

The op has received good postings from most. Why doesn't our community reps make a call upon the local police to enforce the law regarding unleashed dogs. A few public summonsings appearing in the sun might change things a little.

[Teemotay]

That was because most of The Villagers on executive and championship courses feel raking the traps is beneath them.

P.s. did you leave the trap better than you found it?

They must also think that properly fixing their pitch marks on the green is beneath them.

[Bill14564]

You ask what you should have done. The answer to your question depends on where you want to end up. If you want to live your life as stress free as possible your best bet is to avoid confrontation with no comment on the status of the leash and forgot about him the moment he passes you on your walk.

If you want him punished for his complete disregard of the existing leash laws you have several posts on possible courses of action. This may require substantial time and effort on your part. Is that how you want to spend your time?

Leash laws were enacted due to irresponsible pet owners. Not every dog needs to be on a leash all the time. My wife and I walk/hike in many areas where dogs are not required to be on a leash. This is very enjoyable for us and the dog. If we are walking by ourselves with no one around does our dog need to be on a leash? According to the law the answer is clearly yes.

I find it interesting that some folks (I am not implying you) think that some laws should be followed 100% of the time but others not so much. In The Villages virtually every golf cart is set to run above 20mph yet the law is clear on this subject. Stop signs have become yield signs and most folks drive their cars above the speed limit on a daily basis.

Please look up the local leash laws - they may not say what you seem to believe they say.

[Jacob85]

There are some very entitled people here. What I would have done wouldn’t have probably been the best thing as would have told him off but ignoring him would have been best.

[Bilyclub]

I had the EXACT same experience this morning (Tuesday), near the Atlas Canine Park (before it opened). Some lady gave me some crap, when I politely mentioned that unleashed dogs were not allowed. I gave it right back to her in spades, took her photo and called Community Watch. Community Watch told me to call Lake County Police Department, but if I didn't have the woman's name and address, there's nothing they could do. I later called the District Office, who told me to call the nearby Rec Center.

The rules are only for *some* people, apparently not for everyone.

Got a guy in my neighborhood that doesn’t leash up. Saw his dog scare the hell out of some gal walking her dog. Saw this guy out one day when community watch drove by. I stopped him and he told me he can’t do anything. Call wildwood police

So disappointing! I’m not sure what the role is of community watch.


Community Watch does not have police powers and cannot detain or arrest people. They are mainly a deterrent to more serious crimes done inside the bubble by outsiders. They do not get paid enough to get involved in things which may turn physical. I agree, that he could of at least told the guy he was breaking the law. You should have called SCSP if you felt threatened at the Lake Miona incident. For the repeat offender down South, Wildwood PD has a bunch of hard charging young officers, I would try calling next time and the guy might get a ticket. I agree, that the CW person could of at least told the guy he was breaking the law.


Village Community Development Districts (https://www.districtgov.org/departments/Community-Watch/positionPatrolDriver.aspx)

[ronwinger]

Good Morning, Explaining to you... what you should have or have not done is the same as explaining to him... what he should or should not have done. In this day and time, there are a lot on crazies out there. A situation combined with a crazy can turn into a very ugly outcome. My advise to both parties is to nod your heads and cuss under your breath further down the path. That being said... Have a nice day and a Happy Holiday Season.

[Dgodin]

The problem here is that if the small dog were to bite in self sefense it would be considered the agressor and subject to fines wven though the dogs were illegally off leash. My wife had this conversation with the Lady Lake Animal Control Officer after our leashed dog was bitten by an off leash dog while we were walking in the historic area of.the vilages.

[Joe Mack]

I was golfing last week, and I and one of my foursome were in the sand trap. I popped out, and quickly stepped out of the trap and out of the way so the other player could complete his shot, as he was further behind me. Someone walking by on the path yelled "Hey! Are you going to rake that trap?!"

Some people have far too much time and entitlement on their hands.

Did you rake the trap?

[John-US]

Sorry, I don’t believe that, not until we all start living under Communism.

They don't say the C word .. but we already here folks.

[Fastskiguy]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

Two dogs off leash around Lake Minona rec. center. That's all you really need to say, with all of the traffic zooming along Buena Vista you'd have to be a complete idiot to let your dog off leash in that area, leash laws or no leash laws. The dogs could easily see something in the median or other side of BV and run into traffic.

Add in his rather odd response and there is just too much idiot there to deal with. I'm with the contingent that says....forget about this as fast as possible, it's just not worth your time.

Having said that....I just read thru 5 pages on this so I probably should take my owner advice ;)

Joe

[VApeople]

Several years ago, we went for a walk in the grassy area behind the Lake Miona Rec Center.

We encountered a guy who had an off-leash dog. Since I do not like dogs, I said in a nasty voice, "Keep that dog away from us", and he complied.

My guess is that area behind the rec center is a place that various people have been using to walk their dogs off-leash for years and they may resent the new walking trail.

[OhioBuckeye]

I doubt it!!!

[OhioBuckeye]

Byte 1, that’s good advice. Someone else suggested to call Community Watch but I’m sure they won’t do anything because I’m sure they’ll need all kinds of of information.

[Fastskiguy]

I doubt it!!!

I’ll take one for the team because of your enthusiasm and ask….what do you doubt?

Joe

[Chuckndianne]

1st - I think both of you are entitled jerks. Both of you were in the wrong. Him for his attitude & language, you for not obeying the rule. Dogs are NOT allowed on the path. That means you cannot tak them with you , even if you do not allow them to be on the path.

[mkjelenbaas]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.
Where is Minion located? Thanks

[mikeycereal]

You need multiple surgeries to sew you back up and they can't find the guy. So it's BEST to not say anything. pick up your dog as you have and move on. Confronting anyone is dangerous now. (you have no idea what they are on and what they have to end you at that very moment)

This is sadly true. Some people go psycho when they are in the wrong and told they are wrong. They just don't like being told by strangers what to do. It's good to be in the right and keep it to yourself, not as good to be in the right and deal with any negative repercussions from pointing the offenders out. Not that you couldn't take 'em! :duck:

[itrainum@aol.com]

“Entitled” is the new BAD label we tag on folks now. How about “self-righteous” instead.
Who are you to tell someone else what to do? “I self-righteously am perfect so I can tell others what to do!” Makes you sound “entitled” to police other’s behaviour. It’s foolish and dangerous. Maybe live by example versus judging.

[Kgcetm]

Unfortunately many people don’t rake the traps. If we all reminded people to rake their traps we’d have a better golf course.

[Bogie Shooter]

1st - I think both of you are entitled jerks. Both of you were in the wrong. Him for his attitude & language, you for not obeying the rule. Dogs are NOT allowed on the path. That means you cannot tak them with you , even if you do not allow them to be on the path.

OP stated they were on the sidewalk……that’s not near the path.:shrug:

[Bellavita]

[get my camera out and video away

QUOTE=BrianL;2162123]This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.[/QUOTE]

[jimkerr]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

Why did you feel entitles to say something? Are you the Villages police? Do you think he didn't know there is a leash law?

You could have kept on walking and not said anything and minded your own business but you didn't and then got upset at his reaction. Just keep on walkingnext time and don't worry about what someone else is doing.

[Dond1959]

You ask what you should have done. The answer to your question depends on where you want to end up. If you want to live your life as stress free as possible your best bet is to avoid confrontation with no comment on the status of the leash and forgot about him the moment he passes you on your walk.

If you want him punished for his complete disregard of the existing leash laws you have several posts on possible courses of action. This may require substantial time and effort on your part. Is that how you want to spend your time?

Leash laws were enacted due to irresponsible pet owners. Not every dog needs to be on a leash all the time. My wife and I walk/hike in many areas where dogs are not required to be on a leash. This is very enjoyable for us and the dog. If we are walking by ourselves with no one around does our dog need to be on a leash? According to the law the answer is clearly yes.

I find it interesting that some folks (I am not implying you) think that some laws should be followed 100% of the time but others not so much. In The Villages virtually every golf cart is set to run above 20mph yet the law is clear on this subject. Stop signs have become yield signs and most folks drive their cars above the speed limit on a daily basis.

I find it fascinating that dog owners such as yourself seem fine to allow dogs off leash. You seem to forget that while a dog has been domesticated they are still an animal that may do things the owner is not prepared for and cannot control.

Did you know that in the US in 2021 there were approximately 4.5 million dog bites. 800,000 of those bites required medical attention. With a population of 331 million that is a dog bite of 1 out of every 73 people. And I guarantee you that the vast majority of owners were like you, “my dog would never bite or attack anyone”.

Call your insurance agent and tell them you allow your dog to run off leash when you feel it is okay. See what they say. I would recommend you carry a very good umbrella coverage in case your dog becomes one of the above statistics.

[kendi]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.

Ignore and move on. His attitude is his problem not yours. Why let it ruin your day.

[PugMom]

I think you should have kept your mouth shut personally.

i agree. just pick up your small dog, apologize for he/she not being used to bigger dogs, say Good Morning & leave it @ that. no need to create a scene with an angry stranger, you could get hurt. a big smile goes a LONG way in diffusing a malcontent, --you eliminate their argument leaving no leg to stand on. move to a safer place & phone local animal control, that's who the police would tell you to call. :doggie:

[I'm Popeye!]

It's just some Northern Frustration that comes down here around this time of year. Hang on; It will blow away by late March...

[Nucky]

There is one curse word and one two-word curse that if used in N.J. will get you a beating today or soon. The words he used were one of them.

Several years ago I would have said rip the guy's lips off and feed them to him now I would just say why so serious? https://youtu.be/0nvlkVjrrx8 He's not worth your time.

I'm glad you posted to help relieve the stress of a situation like this. The guy is nothing but a worm.

I'm not in for the violence The Joker Performed at all.

[fdpaq0580]

I find it fascinating that dog owners such as yourself seem fine to allow dogs off leash. You seem to forget that while a dog has been domesticated they are still an animal that may do things the owner is not prepared for and cannot control.

Did you know that in the US in 2021 there were approximately 4.5 million dog bites. 800,000 of those bites required medical attention. With a population of 331 million that is a dog bite of 1 out of every 73 people. And I guarantee you that the vast majority of owners were like you, “my dog would never bite or attack anyone”.

Call your insurance agent and tell them you allow your dog to run off leash when you feel it is okay. See what they say. I would recommend you carry a very good umbrella coverage in case your dog becomes one of the above statistics.

Dogs are, imho, wonderful companions, helpers, animals. One thing you about them is, you can live with them all their lives and never know when or if they will do the totally unexpected. The sweet, quiet loving little dog the family lived with for years, for no known reason, got their toddler daughter by the face and savaged her mercilessly. True story. To this day, my wife is uncomfortable and distrusting of dogs. Even the best of dogs have triggers humans cannot decipher. When, if, they go off, it is too late. Leashes help. Constant awareness of owners is good. Keep your pet close on a short leash if you must have them with you. Never let them approach people unless the people express a desire to meet your pup. Be polite.

[karostay]

sticks and stones

[toeser]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.


There is nothing you can do to fix jerks, particularly old ones. They've had too much practice.

[Marcellino]

keep them outnumbered.

there is an abundance of angry and feckless humans. too many unable to keep their emotions in check. too many walk around ruled by whatever emotion overtakes them in an instant. i believe it's far more beneficial to take an extra step (or two) to work in the opposite direction. kindness for the sake of the kind.

if kind people can still outnumber the angry ones then we can still live in a place called "the friendliest hometown".

"People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway. ... The good you do today will often be forgotten. Do good anyway. Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway." -Mother Theresa.

[chrisinva]

Sorry to hear that you & your wife & dog had this crappy experience. When something like this happens to me it can affect my otherwise cherry mood for a long time.

To answer your question - I've chosen not to remind people about the leash laws; they've heard the laws & clearly have chosen otherwise. Also, you can't anticipate their response. Earlier responses have suggested a variety of reasonable, safe & productive ideas - ignore the situation, smile & walk on, don’t wrestle with a pig… (my fav), wish the person a good day, etc.
I’ll pick up my always leashed 10-year-old, 15 lb. maltipoo (shy & skittish) if I think another dog, leashed or unleashed, eyeballs her & walks over with hostility (per my own definition of dog hostility) or sniffs her too aggressively (per my own definition of aggressive sniffing). We all love our dogs.

[Two Bills]

It's just some Northern Frustration that comes down here around this time of year. Hang on; It will blow away by late March...

Needle stuck?

[Barborv]

I probably would have walked past him. If it really bothered me, I would have said something as I walked by like" You do know there is a leash law!" If he then proceeded to say what he said to you I would of probably answered him by saying" Oh very nice, real class"! If my husband was there, Oh boy! (You can take the guy out of Brooklyn, but not the Brooklyn out of the guy!! LOL

[jimjamuser]

This morning my wife and I took our 13-pound dog for a walk around the Lake Minion rec. center. We stuck to the sidewalk around the center as dogs are not allowed on the new walking trail. A guy is coming at us from the opposite direction with 2 off-leash dogs. I pick up our dog as she is terrified of most dogs. I mention to him, very politely, that dogs are supposed to be on a leash. His response was, "Some people should be on a leash." The he turned around and yelled, "Mother Fuc**r" at me.

I was quite annoyed at the entitled attitude and upset at the language he felt entitled to use.

What would you have done? What should I have done?

I'm very tired of individuals that believe that it's fine to have their dog off leash in public areas. Every part of The Villages is in a county with leash laws.
I suppose that you could call Community Service and the local Police. And you could give a description of him and his dogs. He may use that same route habitually and if they are interested, then they could be watching out for him. He does seem "entitled" and yelling a swear word seems beyond entitled. It seems like an expression of violence from a person with a chip on his shoulder. Such people can be dangerous and if you encounter him again I would advise stepping a safe distance away and taking cell phone pictures of him and his dogs.

Just because someone is a senior living in The Villages does NOT guarantee that they are a docile and fun-loving human being. I have seen insults exchanged and fights break out. The Villages has its fair share of alcoholics. I do not know if The Villages has a greater or less amount of mental health problems than the US for all ages or for over age 55 individuals? I would be interested to know that if such statistics were available. I have also seen women start fights in bars. But, I imagine that it is mostly men.

Another problem that I have noticed is that vehicles seem to be speeding through my neighborhood more now than before the Pandemic. Also, there have been big increases in the violence directed against various ethnic groups in the last few years. As to the big social picture of increased violence, it may NOT seem related to a specific local exchange of unpleasantries between 2 groups of dog owners. But, The Villages may be a bubble that is safer than most areas of the US........yet it is NOT completely independent from trends concerning violence in the greater society. Maybe we can all hope that society becomes more CARING in the future. In the meantime, maybe The Villages needs MORE Police and more Community Service people? Maybe both groups should have more individuals riding E-Bikes so that they can have a greater presence directly on the ground level where they are most needed?

[jimjamuser]

have empathy - it's someone suffering from childhood issues needing forgiveness
Impressive, that is a very saint-like statement. I wish that I was surrounded by people like that!

[Michael G.]

I’d be petrified about winding up in the ER of the Villages hospital.

Winding up in the village hospital would be petrified for anyone.

[jimjamuser]

I had the EXACT same experience this morning (Tuesday), near the Atlas Canine Park (before it opened). Some lady gave me some crap, when I politely mentioned that unleashed dogs were not allowed. I gave it right back to her in spades, took her photo and called Community Watch. Community Watch told me to call Lake County Police Department, but if I didn't have the woman's name and address, there's nothing they could do. I later called the District Office, who told me to call the nearby Rec Center.

The rules are only for *some* people, apparently not for everyone.
As far as needing a name and address, if someone angered you enough and you felt that you could do it safely.........maybe follow them to their car and get a picture of their license plate? (if they came there by car)

[jimjamuser]

Got a guy in my neighborhood that doesn’t leash up. Saw his dog scare the hell out of some gal walking her dog. Saw this guy out one day when community watch drove by. I stopped him and he told me he can’t do anything. Call wildwood police
If all that Community Watch is good for is writing up people's lawns for having too many weeds, then maybe they should be disbanded and their budget put to better use using Community DRONES. Community Watch often seems to me to be "impotent and useless".

[jimjamuser]

This might be unpopular but the only reason you spoke to the stranger was to protect your scared dog. Maybe don't take the dog to a crowded place so she is ok. People that don't use leashes are going to be loud and proud about it and you are not going to change their minds. They could probably tell that you were concerned by the way you picked up your dog to protect her.
That is like taking the side of the person doing the WRONG thing.......allowing loose dogs. Rules NOT followed are a slippery slope toward a lower standard of life in The Villages. The people controlling their dogs should not have to change their behavior for the people NOT controlling their dogs. I remember seeing a lady whose dog was literally walking her. The dog was on a long (20ft ) leash and wrapped it around a tree. The lady had zero control of the 30lb animal. A few feet later I watched the dog BITE a man for absolutely NO reason.

Off-leash dogs can definitely be dangerous. Their owners should be fined heavily!

[jimjamuser]

Why did you feel entitles to say something? Are you the Villages police? Do you think he didn't know there is a leash law?

You could have kept on walking and not said anything and minded your own business but you didn't and then got upset at his reaction. Just keep on walkingnext time and don't worry about what someone else is doing.
I have problems agreeing with that attitude.

[JMintzer]

And I call "DIBS" on the phrase "Entitled Jerks"...

I'm going to use it for my next band name...

If that doesn't pan out, I'm going with "The Greedy Developers"...

[Moderator]

Good grief…… Again.

Moderator