Urgent - dangerous dogs - please read

[katezbox]

TOTVers,

This morning a pair of large dogs, possibly boxers (one brown/white, one white) mauled and killed a cat in our neighborhood in Bonita. The cat was tethered outside behind his house.

Community Watch is looking for the dogs and the police have been notified.

Please keep all small pets indoors and be on the lookout for the dogs. If you see them, please call 911.

Thank you!

Kate

[bkcunningham1]

Please, keep us updated, katezbox. That is scary and very tragic. There are many, many children in TV because of the holiday. My heart goes out the cat's parents.

[angiefox10]

This is one of the reasons I urge people to reconsider invisible fences. While they keep you pet in, they do not keep other animals out.

[quirky3]

I am so sorry to hear this, and I hope they ensure that the dogs no longer roam free. But, I have to say that I feel the owners hold most of the responsibility. Tethering a cat outside in florida is beyond insane. There are countless natural predators all around, never mind loose dogs. Very sad lesson to learn the hard way.

[USNRet92]

So sorry for anyones loss of a pet... But I agree with you Quirky3..Why is a cat tethered and why are dogs allowed to roam freely.. Neither sound like wise things to do because Things Can and Do Happen.
Owning 2 dogs and contemplating a move to TV's.. I do not want my dogs running freely nor do I want to encounter someone else's freely roaming pet..Not knowing the dogs involved I suspect they are not vicious dogs but encountering something that can not flee the area is something beyond temptation for most dogs. My wife and I lean towards the CYV because we want safety for our dogs and not having to expose them to others for chance of an unknown intruder such as this..I hope that loose dogs in any of the Villages is not a big issue to worry about. Again my sympathies to all involved with this tragic and preventable loss.

[duffysmom]

Thanks Kate for the head's up. In the three years I've lived here I've never encountered a stray dog. I'm so sorry for the cat's owner. People who move here are not aware of the dangers an unaccompanied pet can face such as coyotes, birds of prey, alligators and the most dangerous of all, sick people who kidnap animals for various reasons to gruesome to mention.

[mfp509]

What a sad story! I feel so badly for the cat owners never suspecting anything like this to happen. There needs to be a clampdown on dog owners allowing their dogs to be unleashed, even in their own yards. I found out that this not allowable either even if you have an invisible fence. I was told that these fences are not approved by The Villages. If a person is reported for having their dog off leash, it could escalate to Animal Control seizing the animal. This came from a Community Standards meeting or whatever it's called. Community Standard # is 751-3912.

[Bogie Shooter]

What a sad story! I feel so badly for the cat owners never suspecting anything like this to happen. There needs to be a clampdown on dog owners allowing their dogs to be unleashed, even in their own yards. I found out that this not allowable either even if you have an invisible fence. I was told that these fences are not approved by The Villages. If a person is reported for having their dog off leash, it could escalate to Animal Control seizing the animal. This came from a Community Standards meeting or whatever it's called. Community Standard # is 751-3912.

I been here for 10+ years and have seen two dogs running free. In both cases the owners were in hot pursuit. So roaming dogs are not a problem in TV. As to stopping owners letting their dogs run loose in their yards, good luck...........

[graciegirl]

Thanks Kate for the head's up. In the three years I've lived here I've never encountered a stray dog. I'm so sorry for the cat's owner. People who move here are not aware of the dangers an unaccompanied pet can face such as coyotes, birds of prey, alligators and the most dangerous of all, sick people who kidnap animals for various reasons to gruesome to mention.

You said it just the way I would, Duffysmom.

Never have seen a stray dog, never would let my cats outside. Wonder if they were pitbulls? Even Nonie who loves all living creatures says to be aware of the danger they can pose.

[rubicon]

There are a few dog owners who have let their dogs to roam. They generally do it very early in Ihave been confronted by a pack of dogs twice in my life in two different states. It is not a pleasant experience

[Barefoot]

Oh dear, this is a horrible, horrible story. Poor Kitty. Please supervise your pets when they're outside. There are coyotes and feral animals in TV. As to letting dogs run free, that is irresponsible.

[red tail]

Oh dear, this is a horrible, horrible story. Poor Kitty. Please supervise your pets when they're outside. There are coyotes and feral animals in TV.

As to letting dogs run free, that is just negligent, irresponsible, nasty and wrong! :rant-rave:

c'mon....there are not coyotes running wild throughout the villages! thats a little dramatic statement to make.

[RichieB]

You said it just the way I would, Duffysmom.

Never have seen a stray dog, never would let my cats outside. Wonder if they were pitbulls? Even Nonie who loves all living creatures says to be aware of the danger they can pose.

I'm with you on that one, Gracie. Our 2 cats have NEVER been outside. One of them runs the other way when the front door is opened. And the sight of a UPS truck - WOW - you wanna see him run !

[bike42]

c'mon....there are not coyotes running wild throughout the villages! thats a little dramatic statement to make.

Wrong, I saw one with my own eyes in the Village of Bridgeport at Lake Miona.

P.S. I passed an alligator IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET in Bridgeport at Lake Sumter, riding on my trike. I don't know which of us was more startled.

[Barefoot]

c'mon....there are not coyotes running wild throughout the villages! thats a little dramatic statement to make.

I didn't say "there are coyotes running WILD THROUGHOUT TV"!! Please don't misquote me.

But yes, there have been coyotes seen in TV. Usually near Preserve areas. I doubt any have been seen in densely populated areas. I've seen feral cats living on the golf courses. It is dangerous to tie a small pet outside.

[angiefox10]

I don't know why coyotes wouldn't be in TV. They seem to be everywhere in the last couple of years. They are commonplace in our neighborhood of late.

[jojo]

Returning from the airport late at night I saw two coyotes at the corner of Colony Plaza and Morse Blvd.

[Pturner]

Kate,
My heartfelt condolences to your neighbors on the loss of their beloved pet. Thanks for the heads up.

[Bogie Shooter]

I don't know why coyotes wouldn't be in TV. They seem to be everywhere in the last couple of years. They are commonplace in our neighborhood of late.

In Chicago??

[angiefox10]

Yep.... Two doors down from our house and down the block. Never saw them until the last couple of years.

Other people have reported them hovering around their dogs when they have taken them out.

http://triblocal.com/glen-ellyn/community/stories/2011/10/coexisting-with-coyotes/

[bestmickey]

Dangerous dogs? In this instance, of course. But I think they did what is typically natural for dogs to do (attack a cat), especially with two of them together. If they find the dogs' owner, he/she should be severely fined and suffer the heaviest consequences Florida law allows for letting the dogs run wild. I wouldn't want to see the dogs be put down for this attack. It's the owners fault, not the dogs. Of course it's possible the dogs are wild and don't have an owner. In that case, I think they perhaps should be put down if caught since I'm not certain they could be rehabilitated.

I find the cat owner at most fault. How stupid is he/she for tethering a cat alone outside in such an environment? With all the possibilities (gators, snakes, red ants, fleas, feral cats, hawks, dogs, etc) in Florida, STUPIDSTUPIDSTUPID! I am so angered over the thoughts of this poor animal suffering. I don't care if your cat used to roam free in your old neghborhood. You were STUPID! I wish someone would tether you in your back yard for a few hours.

I expect to be verbally attacked by many for this post. So be it. :boxing2:

[Posh 08]

Dangerous dogs? In this instance, of course. But I think they did what is typically natural for dogs to do (attack a cat), especially with two of them together. If they find the dogs' owner, he/she should be severely fined and suffer the heaviest consequences Florida law allows for letting the dogs run wild. I wouldn't want to see the dogs be put down for this attack. It's the owners fault, not the dogs. Of course it's possible the dogs are wild and don't have an owner. In that case, I think they perhaps should be put down if caught since I'm not certain they could be rehabilitated.

I find the cat owner at most fault. How stupid is he/she for tethering a cat alone outside in such an environment? With all the possibilities (gators, snakes, red ants, fleas, feral cats, hawks, dogs, etc) in Florida, STUPIDSTUPIDSTUPID! I am so angered over the thoughts of this poor animal suffering. I don't care if your cat used to roam free in your old neghborhood. You were STUPID! I wish someone would tether you in your back yard for a few hours.

I expect to be verbally attacked by many for this post. So be it. :boxing2:

Relax Mick, Stupid is very strong, breath son. I'm sure Mom and Dad of the kit that was killed are suffering plenty. Really, they probably put puss out everyday and it was good. It made me sick too. I would like to meet you and talk about feelings for other humans. If you want to box. Bring the gloves and some Southern manners.

[katezbox]

Sadly, my neighbor had the kitty tethered outside while walking her dog and another doggy she was pet sitting. As many have said, roaming dogs are rare in TV, and the kitty had places to hide from raptors, but not dogs. Please think twice before you blame the victim.

[quirky3]

The ultimate victim here is the cat. Owners must shoulder responsibility for their actions and hopefully learn from them - Both the owners of the dogs and the owners of the cat. It angers me when people fully blame the dogs and consider the cat's owners the victims. They created their own tragic situation. They can always get another pet, but poor kitty's 9 lives are over forever. Shame on them, and pity on them.

[Indydealmaker]

c'mon....there are not coyotes running wild throughout the villages! thats a little dramatic statement to make.

I came across a coyote two days ago when I went for my night walk. Also, there is a very active hawk in Bonita area. He has made several dive bombs at the doves in our back yard.

[graciegirl]

I saw a coyote too, as did two of my neighbors on Havana Trail in Hadley.

[Moderator]

We have merged the two threads into one under the General Villages discussion where it more appropriately belongs since it is a general villages warning and not a specific pet care issue.

We really discourage duplicate threads as it becomes difficult to follow the chain of replies and makes future searches less accurate.

I have also removed or edited posts that reference multiple threads.

Thanks for your understanding.

[Bambi]

I saw one running across one of the Lopez golf courses about two months ago. He crossed BV right in front of me. A couple days later I asked my vet. she said that the other vet in the office exercises in Calumet and has also seen them. Someplace on the net, a photographer posted pics of coyotes in Lake county.
I also read that they are a problem for farmers around Tampa.
Yup,they are here.

[John_W]

I came across a coyote two days ago when I went for my night walk...

I remember reading on this board about coyotes a couple of years ago and then did some research. I would say that is one of the reasons we bought a CYV with it's privacy fenced yard, because I'm not too keen on taking a dog outside in the darkness late at night. It's also one of the reasons I continue to read this board.

[buggyone]

All of us agree putting a cat outside tethered up is the wrong thing to do. Dangerous dogs? No, they were just doing what is nature to a group of dogs.

Of course, the dogs should not have been running loose.

Enough neglicence on both sides here.

Keep the dogs inside and walk them on a leash. Keep your cats inside ALL THE TIME.

As for coyotes, they are not going to attack you. Chances are you will never see one but it will most likely be at dawn or dusk if you do. If your little dog or cat is tethered outside, that is an easy snack.

[Posh 08]

If I may ask a question. Would a cat be safe in a court yard? That is one reason we are really liking the CYVs.

[buggyone]

I would have to guess and say a cat would NOT be safe in the courtyard of the villa. I have owned cats who could jump very high and they will find their way out if given a chance.

If they did escape the courtyard, chances are you would never see them again. For all sakes, keep the kitties inside the house.

[John_W]

If I may ask a question. Would a cat be safe in a court yard? That is one reason we are really liking the CYVs.

The problem with that is there is about a 4" gap under the gate to your backyard, I would think most cats could slip under that.

[Posh 08]

The problem with that is there is about a 4" gap under the gate to your backyard, I would think most cats could slip under that.

Yep, noticed that when we were looking. Had a plan for that.

[quirky3]

Cats would love a screened in lanai - the best of both worlds. Interesting and safe. Eagles and hawks could easily snatch up a cat from an open back yard.

[graciegirl]

Our two cats love our lanai. Love it, love it, LOVE it. They believe with all of their furry hearts that the porch furniture was placed there just for their naps. and the geckos for their entertainment, and the birds to watch and to listen to....just for them. Both of them.:wave:

[swimdawg]

I would have to guess and say a cat would NOT be safe in the courtyard of the villa. I have owned cats who could jump very high and they will find their way out if given a chance.

If they did escape the courtyard, chances are you would never see them again. For all sakes, keep the kitties inside the house.

I was at a friend's home recently.....and as I sat there, I saw one of their kute katz jump from the floor.....to the counter....and THEN from the counter to the VERY high top of the cabinets. I couldn't believe my eyes! I bet this cat could easily jump over a fence in a villa......no problem!

Oh yes.......cats can jump!

[duffysmom]

In Chicago??

Coyotes have been sighted in Central Park NYC. They are smart and cunning as well as skilled hunters;
they can survive in most enviornments eating vermin.

[joannej]

I would have to guess and say a cat would NOT be safe in the courtyard of the villa. I have owned cats who could jump very high and they will find their way out if given a chance.

If they did escape the courtyard, chances are you would never see them again. For all sakes, keep the kitties inside the house.
_________________
We bought a courtyard villa so that we could let our cat go outside at night. We leave the lanai door slightly ajar so he can let himself back into the lanai when he wants to. I feel that he is very safe and he has never attempted to "jump the wall". They're too high for him. :-)

[katezbox]

All of us agree putting a cat outside tethered up is the wrong thing to do. Dangerous dogs? No, they were just doing what is nature to a group of dogs.

Of course, the dogs should not have been running loose.

Enough neglicence on both sides here.

Keep the dogs inside and walk them on a leash. Keep your cats inside ALL THE TIME.

As for coyotes, they are not going to attack you. Chances are you will never see one but it will most likely be at dawn or dusk if you do. If your little dog or cat is tethered outside, that is an easy snack.

These dogs also growled at another neighbor - a two legged one. Sorry, but dogs do not "automatically" attack cats. Or, if you have proof that they do, please provide references.

Also, why would you say coyotes won't harm people, but will harm animals? What about children?

Why do so many on this forum have to blame someone? Why can't you feel sympathy for a pet lover who left her kitty in her yard with a villa wall in the rear and neighbors close by - nowhere near a main road?

PTurner leads by example....

[ladydoc]

Our two cats love our lanai. Love it, love it, LOVE it. They believe with all of their furry hearts that the porch furniture was placed there just for their naps. and the geckos for their entertainment, and the birds to watch and to listen to....just for them. Both of them.:wave:

Our big boy kitty loves the lanai and has little interest in going outside, thank goodness. He could clear the wall with no problem at all. I would not allow him to go outside because of the ease of getting over the wall. We have fixed the gap in the gate problem because we have a little dog as well. I am not so worried about him getting hurt by a dog, but more concerned that he would get lost or get hurt in the street. He has NO fear of dogs since he grew up around them and he tolerates our cattle dog grooming him...she thinks she is his mom....The average life span of a cat that goes out is 3-4 years and is 12 years and up for an indoor cat. I read this on a petfood website.

[quirky3]

These dogs also growled at another neighbor - a two legged one. Sorry, but dogs do not "automatically" attack cats. Or, if you have proof that they do, please provide references.

Also, why would you say coyotes won't harm people, but will harm animals? What about children?

Why do so many on this forum have to blame someone? Why can't you feel sympathy for a pet lover who left her kitty in her yard with a villa wall in the rear and neighbors close by - nowhere near a main road?

PTurner leads by example....

Although I think your questions are probably rhetorical, I think there is benefit in providing you with some good answers.

1. Dogs naturally attacking cats
http://www.wisegeek.com/why-do-dogs-chase-cats.htm

2. Coyotes afraid of people but not animals
http://www.lcfpd.org/docs/media_pub_25097.pdf

3. Responsibilities of a pet owner
http://www.paw-rescue.org/rpo_owner.html

Hope that helps with your understanding of the questions you asked.

[buggyone]

It is the nature of dogs in a group to go into an attack mode when they see potential prey - in this case, a cat who probably was trying to escape the harness and tether. Was this cat inside of the courtyard of a villa or was it outside the courtyard area? If it were inside and tethered with the gate being closed, dogs would not have been able to get inside - therefore, the cat was outside the courtyard area.

I have not seen any news article anywhere that had a coyote attacking a person. They will kill a little dog or cat for food just like they would do with a rabbit or squirrel. If a toddler or baby was outside by themself, it is possible a coyote might go after them, I guess.

Needless to say, I would not leave a baby or toddler outside by themself (or tethered outside) anywhere. Florida has too many things that could harm a child if the opportunity was there including fire ants, rattlesnakes, spiders, dogs running loose, pythons, child predators, etc.

Sure, I feel pity for a person who lost a pet - but they did not use common sense. It was a very hard lesson to learn but they will not do that again.

[Posh 08]

It is the nature of dogs in a group to go into an attack mode when they see potential prey - in this case, a cat who probably was trying to escape the harness and tether. Was this cat inside of the courtyard of a villa or was it outside the courtyard area? If it were inside and tethered with the gate being closed, dogs would not have been able to get inside - therefore, the cat was outside the courtyard area.

I have not seen any news article anywhere that had a coyote attacking a person. They will kill a little dog or cat for food just like they would do with a rabbit or squirrel. If a toddler or baby was outside by themself, it is possible a coyote might go after them, I guess.

Needless to say, I would not leave a baby or toddler outside by themself (or tethered outside) anywhere. Florida has too many things that could harm a child if the opportunity was there including fire ants, rattlesnakes, spiders, dogs running loose, pythons, child predators, etc.

Sure, I feel pity for a person who lost a pet - but they did not use common sense. It was a very hard lesson to learn but they will not do that again.

Add coral snakes to the list. My brother and SIL lost a Jack Russell to a coral snake. They live in Crystal River. The Standard Poodle polished off the snake.

[graciegirl]

These dogs also growled at another neighbor - a two legged one. Sorry, but dogs do not "automatically" attack cats. Or, if you have proof that they do, please provide references.

Also, why would you say coyotes won't harm people, but will harm animals? What about children?

Why do so many on this forum have to blame someone? Why can't you feel sympathy for a pet lover who left her kitty in her yard with a villa wall in the rear and neighbors close by - nowhere near a main road?

PTurner leads by example....

I reread what I wrote and I may have sounded insensitive Kate. I am so sorry for the family of the kitty who was killed and concerned that the dogs are still out there.

I know that your warning was meant to let us know to protect our little charges. Thank you so much.

[zcaveman]

Were these two dogs house broken dogs on a romp or a twosome pack of wild dogs?

I know that some of the posts talk about keeping dogs on a leash but if they were wild dogs then we have a problem.

[Indydealmaker]

Coyote attacks woman
http://www.ocregister.com/news/woman-309686-coyotes-coyote.html

Coyote kills woman
http://www.vnnforum.com/archive/index.php/t-102838.html
Coyote Attacks Woman AND Pitbull
http://www.asylum.com/2010/01/27/wily-coyote-attacks-woman-pitbull/

[Larry Wilson]

Let's be clear. Coyotes attacking a human is very very rare which is mentioned in the articles you cited.
A coyote with rabies cannot digest food and is out of its mind with hunger. It will attack a human, especially in the cases cited, where it really wanted the pet dog to eat.
A normal coyote, which isn't sick, is very shy and will stay away from humans. ( Also stated in the articles you cited. )

[buggyone]

Sounds as though the coyote attacks on humans are very rare things but it certainly is a possibility, according to those articles.

Very rare animal encounters do happen. Just ask male super-model Fabio who was on a roller coaster and got hit in the face by a goose.
http://www.ultimaterollercoaster.com/news/archives/april99/stories/040199_01.shtml

[Larry Wilson]

True but its not going to keep me off of roller coasters! LOL

[skyguy79]

I'll bet that's not the first or the last time Fabio ever got goosed! http://www.financeglobe.com/FN/images/smilies/smiley-undecided.gif

[Freeda]

Even penguins sometimes attack people. Lucky us, to live in TV.

http://m.youtube.com/index?desktop_uri=%2F&gl=US#/watch?v=6qNOIJNfICI

Mumble - - - no!

On a serious note, very sad that this happened to the pet.

[Taltarzac725]

TOTVers,

This morning a pair of large dogs, possibly boxers (one brown/white, one white) mauled and killed a cat in our neighborhood in Bonita. The cat was tethered outside behind his house.

Community Watch is looking for the dogs and the police have been notified.

Please keep all small pets indoors and be on the lookout for the dogs. If you see them, please call 911.

Thank you!

Kate

Sorry to hear about your neighbor's cat, Kate.

As to some of the other comments on this thread:

We had an abandoned Beagle roaming around in our neighborhood about 6 months back. Last month, Doggie Doo Run Run ( private dog park on CR101 near its junction with CR104) had two lab mixes a good Samaritan coaxed off CR101. These two dogs had wandered from their home around CR42 after digging out from their backyard. They had wandered a good two miles or more. Dogs with owners do get loose here in the Villages. And, you have to keep your eyes out for pets who have broken off their leash or got loose in some other way. My own dog took a 3 hour adventure when a house guest did not secure the front door after leaving our then empty house.


Could be these two "boxers" were abandoned or lost.

A pair of boxers were often walked in our Lynnhaven neighborhood by a woman who looked like she would have trouble handling them if they took off after a rabbit or feral cat. She now only walks with a single and its looks like a new younger boxer.

A dog walker in our immediate area of the Villages broke her wrist trying to control her mastiff like dog after it wanted to attack a toy poodle of another Villagers dog walker. The toy poodle was badly mauled.

A coyote often wanders in a field not more than a few blocks from the Lynnhaven pool.

[katezbox]

The dogs were seen again yesterday and this morning trying to break into a screened lanai where two small Maltese were playing. They had collars, so not wild.

There are many theories as to what causes dogs to attack and not just other animals. "There was a news article a few months back about a 4 year old girl killed by the family’s Rottweilers. It was a truly sad situation and our hearts go out to the parents and family of this young child. Dogs kill between 10 and 20 people a year in the U.S. and most of them are children." For the rest, go here...

http://animalbehaviorassociates.com/blog/453/canine-behavior/instinct-drive-dog-attacks/

Again, calling my neighbor stupid and irresponsible is, in itself stupid, irresponsible and insensitive. We all feel we were violated and you are saying that she asked for it!

And where was her stupidity committed? In a home with a protective wall at the rear (CYVs behind) and two homes on either side. On the lower part of a cul de sac with nearly no traffic and three streets away from a main artery. So the odds are that in a 30 minute window she should have prepared herself for the possibility of attack by gators and crocodiles (though near no water), raptors of all types (though the kitty had the ability to hide in landscaping), and roving packs of wild dogs (even though they had never before been seen), coyotes etc etc etc.

A tragedy is just that - like an accident, there doesn't need to be someone at fault. Zoomer was rescued as a kitten and lived ten wonderful years with a caring family.

[janmcn]

I hope you or whoever saw these dogs running loose again called the police or neighborhood watch immediately. The owner of these dogs needs to be arrested.

[duffysmom]

The dogs were seen again yesterday and this morning trying to break into a screened lanai where two small Maltese were playing. They had collars, so not wild.

There are many theories as to what causes dogs to attack and not just other animals. "There was a news article a few months back about a 4 year old girl killed by the family’s Rottweilers. It was a truly sad situation and our hearts go out to the parents and family of this young child. Dogs kill between 10 and 20 people a year in the U.S. and most of them are children." For the rest, go here...

http://animalbehaviorassociates.com/blog/453/canine-behavior/instinct-drive-dog-attacks/

Again, calling my neighbor stupid and irresponsible is, in itself stupid, irresponsible and insensitive. We all feel we were violated and you are saying that she asked for it!

And where was her stupidity committed? In a home with a protective wall at the rear (CYVs behind) and two homes on either side. On the lower part of a cul de sac with nearly no traffic and three streets away from a main artery. So the odds are that in a 30 minute window she should have prepared herself for the possibility of attack by gators and crocodiles (though near no water), raptors of all types (though the kitty had the ability to hide in landscaping), and roving packs of wild dogs (even though they had never before been seen), coyotes etc etc etc.

A tragedy is just that - like an accident, there doesn't need to be someone at fault. Zoomer was rescued as a kitten and lived ten wonderful years with a caring family.

Kate, I also feel violated when I read the ignorant comments on this thread and the lack of understanding of what a pack (2 is a pack) of dogs who have killed their prey are capable of. Once they have experienced killing they will hunt down other prey as well. It's instinctual. The fact that they were trying to attack 2 little dogs is reason to believe that they are hunting and should be considered extremely dangerous. I would also be concerned that they would go after a toddler who was running as well. Running is a trigger. As Tal has stated, unaware dog walkers are also at risk. They would be no match for two fierce boxers. Hopefully the owner of the cat will call the radio station and ask that people be on the lookout for these animals and stay clear. My heart goes out to Zoomer's owner.

[katezbox]

Kate, I also feel violated when I read the ignorant comments on this thread and the lack of understanding of what a pack (2 is a pack) of dogs who have killed their prey are capable of. Once they have experienced killing they will hunt down other prey as well. It's instinctual. The fact that they were trying to attack 2 little dogs is reason to believe that they are hunting and should be considered extremely dangerous. I would also be concerned that they would go after a toddler who was running as well. Running is a trigger. As Tal has stated, unaware dog walkers are also at risk. They would be no match for two fierce boxers. Hopefully the owner of the cat will call the radio station and ask that people be on the lookout for these animals and stay clear. My heart goes out to Zoomer's owner.

Thank you Duffy's Mom - Zoomer's owner also has a little Duffy lookalike - he and Finley are best buds....must be the Maltese in them...

[joannej]

The dogs were seen again yesterday and this morning trying to break into a screened lanai where two small Maltese were playing. They had collars, so not wild.

There are many theories as to what causes dogs to attack and not just other animals. "There was a news article a few months back about a 4 year old girl killed by the family’s Rottweilers. It was a truly sad situation and our hearts go out to the parents and family of this young child. Dogs kill between 10 and 20 people a year in the U.S. and most of them are children." For the rest, go here...

http://animalbehaviorassociates.com/blog/453/canine-behavior/instinct-drive-dog-attacks/

Again, calling my neighbor stupid and irresponsible is, in itself stupid, irresponsible and insensitive. We all feel we were violated and you are saying that she asked for it!

And where was her stupidity committed? In a home with a protective wall at the rear (CYVs behind) and two homes on either side. On the lower part of a cul de sac with nearly no traffic and three streets away from a main artery. So the odds are that in a 30 minute window she should have prepared herself for the possibility of attack by gators and crocodiles (though near no water), raptors of all types (though the kitty had the ability to hide in landscaping), and roving packs of wild dogs (even though they had never before been seen), coyotes etc etc etc.

A tragedy is just that - like an accident, there doesn't need to be someone at fault. Zoomer was rescued as a kitten and lived ten wonderful years with a caring family.
________________________________
Would it help to post a warning on the mailboxes about these dogs? I feel very bad that the poor cat was killed, and I'm shocked to hear that after all of this, they tried to get to the other screened-in dogs!

[CarGuys]

I reread what I wrote and I may have sounded insensitive Kate. I am so sorry for the family of the kitty who was killed and concerned that the dogs are still out there.

I know that your warning was meant to let us know to protect our little charges. Thank you so much.

As a country boy we do take care of rabid and dangerous animals. It involves a bullit.

However with that upsetting half TV and TV is not wild farm land my question is. Do we not have a Dog Warden that picks up Dogs gone wild!

What ever happened to the Rain Gutter eating critter?

[jblum315]

I am sorry to hear about the cat. I have never left a cat outdoors. There are stray dogs, coyotes, and other predators everywhere in the world.

[Barefoot]

The dogs were seen again yesterday and this morning trying to break into a screened lanai where two small Maltese were playing. They had collars, so not wild.

Again, calling my neighbor stupid and irresponsible is, in itself stupid, irresponsible and insensitive. We all feel we were violated and you are saying that she asked for it! A tragedy is just that - like an accident, there doesn't need to be someone at fault. Zoomer was rescued as a kitten and lived ten wonderful years with a caring family.

You are right Kate. The family of Zoomer has suffered a terrible tragedy.

I hope that information on the dogs is being published via the radio, so that people in the area can be extra vigilant. The dogs probably escaped from a yard or farm, or even a traveller's car. I certainly hope the dog catchers are on the case!

[mulligan]

You can bet you'll never hear anything about such unpleasant subjects on the developer's radio station. Good news only!! Several neighbors spotted a wolf (yep-looked up pictures online to verify) going after a calf in the pasture adjacent to Tamarind Grove (think: food chain).

[CarGuys]

Morning!

Wow did not know a Wolf still alive in Fla neighborhoods.

Sure it is not one of those http://clearwater.patch.com/articles/coyote-coydog-wolf-2

Either way very scarry! Out west in Wyoming it was wild cougars going after new born colts. Papa Stallion took care of them.

[jblum315]

Our two cats love our lanai. Love it, love it, LOVE it. They believe with all of their furry hearts that the porch furniture was placed there just for their naps. and the geckos for their entertainment, and the birds to watch and to listen to....just for them. Both of them.:wave:

Mine too. They beg to go out on the lanai. When they want to come in, they jump up on a little table and peer thru the kitchen window.
P.S. I have seen one of them on my top book shelf, almost 8 ft. up. A villa wall would not be much of a challenge.

[bike42]

Do we not have a Dog Warden that picks up Dogs gone wild!


YES, call Sumter County Animal Control (352) 569-1960.
If you see these dogs, call Animal Control immediately.

The Villages has no jurisdiction over animal problems and turns all reports and complaints over to the counties.
http://sumtercountyfl.gov/index.aspx?nid=75

[angiefox10]

Morning!

Wow did not know a Wolf still alive in Fla neighborhoods.

Sure it is not one of those http://clearwater.patch.com/articles/coyote-coydog-wolf-2

Either way very scarry! Out west in Wyoming it was wild cougars going after new born colts. Papa Stallion took care of them.

Watch out folks. In a very short time there's going to be a Fox in The Villages! I have it on good authority this fox LOVES animals but eats children!
:wave:

[katezbox]

As a country boy we do take care of rabid and dangerous animals. It involves a bullit.

However with that upsetting half TV and TV is not wild farm land my question is. Do we not have a Dog Warden that picks up Dogs gone wild!

What ever happened to the Rain Gutter eating critter?

Joanne J and Car Guys - thanks for the insights.

[RichieB]

Watch out folks. In a very short time there's going to be a Fox in The Villages! I have it on good authority this fox LOVES animals but eats children!
:wave:

and in about a month, there's gonna be a fat guy in a red suit flying around with some reindeer. He had better be careful when he goes through The Villages !

[swimdawg]

Watch out folks. In a very short time there's going to be a Fox in The Villages! I have it on good authority this fox LOVES animals but eats children!
:wave:

Oh..oh! What will happen if the FOX meets the DAWG????? :wave:

[2BNTV]

TOTVers,

This morning a pair of large dogs, possibly boxers (one brown/white, one white) mauled and killed a cat in our neighborhood in Bonita. The cat was tethered outside behind his house.

Community Watch is looking for the dogs and the police have been notified.

Please keep all small pets indoors and be on the lookout for the dogs. If you see them, please call 911.

Thank you!

Kate

Kate:

I wanted to express my condolence for your neighbors cat.

[redwitch]

I couldn't reply to this thread before. I was just heartsick. I can only imagine the pain your neighbor felt. It was a truly tragic incident. What makes it even more heartbreaking is that I'm sure your neighbors are blaming themselves even though they thought their beloved cat was safe. I can also imagine how sick the dogs' owners will feel if they discover their pets killed another animal. My sincere condolences to your neighbors. Here's hoping these dogs are caught before they can do more harm.

[bkcunningham1]

I wish we had a way to "like" answers or give points or something for good answers. I'd good answer you Red. <3

[CarGuys]

QUOTE=angiefox10;423017]Watch out folks. In a very short time there's going to be a Fox in The Villages! I have it on good authority this fox LOVES animals but eats children!
:wave:[/QUOTE]

NO COUGAR JOKES Angie!:jester::jester:

[angiefox10]

I wish we had a way to "like" answers or give points or something for good answers. I'd good answer you Red. <3


I agree. When someone says something that really hits home. I wish I could *like* it! Nice post Red!

[Barefoot]

I couldn't reply to this thread before. I was just heartsick. I can only imagine the pain your neighbor felt. It was a truly tragic incident. What makes it even more heartbreaking is that I'm sure your neighbors are blaming themselves even though they thought their beloved cat was safe. I can also imagine how sick the dogs' owners will feel if they discover their pets killed another animal. My sincere condolences to your neighbors. Here's hoping these dogs are caught before they can do more harm.

Redwitch, This is a wise and compassionate post.

[brostholder]

Sounds as though the coyote attacks on humans are very rare things but it certainly is a possibility, according to those articles.

Very rare animal encounters do happen. Just ask male super-model Fabio who was on a roller coaster and got hit in the face by a goose.
http://www.ultimaterollercoaster.com/news/archives/april99/stories/040199_01.shtml

Fabio got goosed??

[quirky3]

I couldn't reply to this thread before. I was just heartsick. I can only imagine the pain your neighbor felt. It was a truly tragic incident. What makes it even more heartbreaking is that I'm sure your neighbors are blaming themselves even though they thought their beloved cat was safe. I can also imagine how sick the dogs' owners will feel if they discover their pets killed another animal. My sincere condolences to your neighbors. Here's hoping these dogs are caught before they can do more harm.

Red, you are truly an inspiration. I too am so sorry for their loss, no matter what the cause. It is really wise to wait before posting to a thread that makes you heartsick. I think I will take a page from that book in the future.

[buggyone]

I saw an article in The Daily Sun today that mentioned the incident and asking people to call Animal Control if they see the dogs.

Since someone did say the dogs have collars, I would bet their owner lets them run loose everyday and has no idea of the damage they cause.

[Bogie Shooter]

You can bet you'll never hear anything about such unpleasant subjects on the developer's radio station. Good news only!! Several neighbors spotted a wolf (yep-looked up pictures online to verify) going after a calf in the pasture adjacent to Tamarind Grove (think: food chain).

You may want to read post #78...........

[samhass]

I wish we had a way to "like" answers or give points or something for good answers. I'd good answer you Red. <3

So would I. Good answer, Red.

[Pathel]

I couldn't reply to this thread before. I was just heartsick. I can only imagine the pain your neighbor felt. It was a truly tragic incident. What makes it even more heartbreaking is that I'm sure your neighbors are blaming themselves even though they thought their beloved cat was safe. I can also imagine how sick the dogs' owners will feel if they discover their pets killed another animal. My sincere condolences to your neighbors. Here's hoping these dogs are caught before they can do more harm.

Yes, so sad for all.

[katezbox]

I wish we had a way to "like" answers or give points or something for good answers. I'd good answer you Red. <3

I TOTALLY agree. As usual, Red is spot on...

[katezbox]

I saw an article in The Daily Sun today that mentioned the incident and asking people to call Animal Control if they see the dogs.

Since someone did say the dogs have collars, I would bet their owner lets them run loose everyday and has no idea of the damage they cause.

Buggy, we are wondering if maybe the dogs were owned by folks visiting for Thanksgiving.

k