Mrrzy -

I'm in awe of your calm and reasoning through such a frightening attack. It would be great if the owners DID try to claim the rambling beastie, and then get the book thrown at them.

In my town, the leash law even extends to cats... not that they honestly expect folks to have their cats on leashes, but that the owners are held responsible for what damage their pets do outside their home. County regulations require dogs to have a yearly license tag to be attached to the collar as well as a rabies tag, attached when the vet gives the jab. Had someone in my town had the misfortune you did, the pet owners would be heavily fined and likely made responsible for any medical bills for you. Much as I love beasties and the idea of "no kill" shelters, I think a dog who has been involved in this serious a biting attack (even if not inherently vicious) should be put down. There are way too many great animals looking for a home.

I simply do not understand the "but that's their NATURE" argument as a "get out of euthanasia free" card. I've a friend who adopted a LARGE standard poodle who'd been twice turned back to the breed rescue, ignoring the advice of myself and other folks who'd done obedience training. The dog had seen his first master murdered in front of him as a puppy, so that made him a "poor little dog." The poor little dog likes murdering cats. She had three cats, and was successful in keeping them on different floors of the house from each other - till her teenaged daughter forgot the connecting door one day: mangled, dead cat.
She still has that damn dog. I don't get it.

The dog who bit you should be put down. The owners should be penalized. And though unpractical, it sure would be nice if people HAD to have a license to have a pet that showed they understood their responsibilities.

Again - you were a trooper(trouper?) and reacted with incredible grace in a tough spot. I hope you heal flawlessly, scarlessly, and that some fine dogguses treat you with great fondness soon.

Joanne in Cleveland