Terrible Event in England

Here I was thinking it would be a really happy new year, and this comes across my desk. Horrible Tragedy in England

It is impossible for me to say why such a nightmare occurred, but there are three conclusions one can draw from this article.

1. Some will say, if the family didn't have a pit bull terrier in the first place, it would never have happened. That may be just a bit too obvious. Unfortunately there are other dogs that sometimes attack people, often children.

It is these critics who advocate the total extermination of complete breeds of dogs, rather than based on behavior. This is simply no solution, but it gives governments an intrusion into the privacy and property rights of people far beyond what is constitutional and just. This cannot be effective, no more than banning fireworks would stop all burns, or banning and exterminating men will eliminate crime. When this position is taken in respect to people, we call it genocide.

2. A neighbor claimed the 'dog was a menace' but evidently never reported that to authorities, and didn't speak about their concerns with the dog owners. Sometimes, speaking to a dog owner about your concerns is considered nosiness. However, there are people who know a LOT more about dogs than others, and the courage to speak up if you are sure that a dog is a menace, even if only to the owners, could be just the thing to get their consideration; perhaps even prevent such a disaster as happened to little Ellie, especially if it is done with care and respect.

3. Fireworks affect dogs VERY BADLY. It terrifies them. Random, unexpected explosions will make the calmest dog lose its normal composure. If you know there is going to be fireworks in your community, put the dog in a comfortable and safe place. Play some soft, calming music to reduce the noise, give it some distractions, and KEEP IT SEPARATED FROM THE REST OF THE FAMILY until the next morning, when it has calmed down and the explosions have ended.

This is horrible way for a little one to die. Our hearts go out to these poor people. The shock and trauma, not to mention the loss, guilt and rage, will mark those souls forever. And, all the world has lost a beautiful little girl, who could have contributed so much.