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Published - Tuesday, August 19, 2008

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Dog impounded after attacks


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La Crosse County health officials may seek a judicial order to euthanize a pit bull that escaped from a South Side yard Monday and attacked two CenturyTel technicians, leaving both with bite wounds.

The 2-year-old male black and white dog jumped a thin wire fence behind 815 S. Seventh St. about 9:15 a.m. to reach the alley where the men were working, said James Burks, who saw the incident from his bathroom window.
Coulee Region Humane Society officer Dan Olson, left, impounds a pit bull that attacked two men in the alley of the 800 block of South Seventh Street on Monday, as a La Crosse police officer and woman look on. Dick Riniker photo.

“I heard screaming and saw the dog attacking two guys. The dog had them on the ground,” Burks said.

The dog first bit Dale Proksch, according to La Crosse police reports. The owner’s son, Samson Fair, pulled the dog off, but it turned and again went after Proksch. When Carmon Jostad tried to help his co-worker, the dog tore into the right side of his belly, police said.

“One guy had a big hole in his stomach,” Burks said.

Proksch, of Holmen, Wis., had injuries to his left hand and forearm, right bicep and right upper leg. He was in good condition Monday at Franciscan Skemp Medical Center.

Jostad, of Coon Valley, Wis., had the bite to his abdomen and scrapes on his right elbow and hand, according to police. He was treated at the hospital and released.

La Crosse County Health Department Vector Control Manager Dave Geske ordered the dog quarantined at the Coulee Region Humane Society for at least 10 days. It did have a current license and rabies vaccination.

Department officials will investigate the incident, Geske said, and likely seek an order from a circuit judge to have the dog euthanized if they conclude it jumped the fence and attacked unprovoked.

A court hearing with testimony from witnesses and the dog’s owner, Cathy Bolling, would be set before any ruling is made, he said.

Bolling, who lives at the Seventh Street address, would have the right to appeal the euthanasia order.

Bolling, 40, told police she had leashed the dog, called Big Boy, in the backyard. She was given a $159 citation for having a dog running at large and is scheduled to appear in La Crosse Municipal Court on Sept. 24.

A second dog that lives at the same house attacked a man in April, police said.

Anne Jungen can be reached at (608) 791-8224 or ajungen@lacrossetribune.com.
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eggnoglover37 wrote on Jan 30, 2009 2:20 PM:

" really....well it is bound to happen, they should put it down...really if a dog attack me i would kill it....or if it hurt my famliy...but thats just me "

notme wrote on Sep 1, 2008 12:08 AM:

" Im Still Jackson
wrote on Aug 22, 2008 4:53 PM:

" I was on Denton street and a guy was walking his big pitbull and I told him to cross the street and come no further and he kept comming saying she dont bite and I was in my trunk and I pulled out my handgun and said I know now get that dog away from me or I WILL SHOOT IT DEAD right here and now."

I don't beleive a word of it, not in this town. "

conscience? wrote on Aug 25, 2008 1:43 PM:

" Jackson- You don't have to point a gun directly at someone to threaten them with it. You had no problems because the man didn't call the police. I would have in a second. And what makes you think you can police who walks down a street? You should have stayed in your struck if you were scared of the dog.
Does the city contact the property owner if a dog bite happens on their rental property? He should have taken some action if they do. I'm not sure what his options would be if she's allowed to have dogs on the lease. "

Im Still Jackson wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:57 AM:

" I think Steve Eide should be held responsible as well as the property owner who allowed the DOGs to remain on his property after the 1st attack as one poster also said and even listed the state statue that by my understanding does just that, makes the property owner liable if they know about a danger to the public and allow it to continue to exist!
He's probably back dating eviction notices or pet removal notices ect right now to save his slum lord behind. "

Im Still Jackson wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:50 AM:

" MOOSE: I did NOT pull a gun on a guy.
READ again! I told the guy to get the pitbull away from me and picked up my gun out of the trunk WITHOUT POINTING IT AT ANYONE INCLUDING THE DOG!..I have a permit!..........Thats why nothing happened to me but have no doubt I would had shot that dog DEAD at the first sign of aggression! "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 23, 2008 4:48 PM:

" conscience, exactly, there will be an official meeting in the future where we can present our possibilities, come up with some solutions to present. If we give the council 5 choices of possible remedies, there just may be 1 good one they can implement.

wiseup, I second that. "

conscience? wrote on Aug 23, 2008 7:41 AM:

" http://www.ktvu.com/news/4777772/detail.html
If you ban the breed they will just own different and potentially more deadly ones. I'm not sure what the answer is, but banning the breed is not it. "

wiseup wrote on Aug 22, 2008 11:24 PM:

" I hope the victims sue the crap out of the lady and her vicious pets. Thankfully the dog didn't kill someone's child! "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 22, 2008 10:44 PM:

" Abe- I never wanted to change your mind. I am just voicing my opinions as well. I do believe there is a bully breed problem. It's called uneducated, irresponsible owners. Like I said before, until the real problem of irresponsible owners and breeders is resolved the problem will not go away. Banning pitbulls is like sweeping dirt under the rug. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 22, 2008 10:07 PM:

" Tank, breed breed breed.

It's the breed, cause they do the majority of the deed.

I do blame them, you'll never change my mind. The only reason I played around mincing words with you guys is to get my opinions out. There's nothing you can say to convince me otherwise, nothing.

There are ways around discriminating against one breed, wait and see. "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 22, 2008 9:48 PM:

" Tanktastic - OPPS forgot to say "WELL SAID" "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 22, 2008 9:47 PM:

" Tanktastic- " Will we just keep banning breeds until no one can own a dog at all? Or maybe we should focus on the real problem, the irresponsible owners and the regulations about all dogs. "

It always go back to the OWNER of the dog!!!

Maybe a nation wide manditory dog test...ALL DOGS...from the ankle biters to the english mastiff...the tax payers would love to see their Gov. spend their $$$ on that...HA!!!<-not you ABE "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 22, 2008 9:30 PM:

" Im Still Jackson- My 8 year old rott/pit mix has helped me nurse and care for at least 10 kittens over the course of his life. He has even helped me foster a litter of wild baby bunnies. In this I find it is how you raise them. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 22, 2008 9:24 PM:

" Again all I am reading is about the breed. What about the irresponsible owners? What about the city/county who knew of these other attacks from this same owners dogs and still did nothing? I am well aware of what large dogs are capable of in the wrong hands. Lets just go ahead and ban pitbulls. What dog will be next to take their spot. Canis Panther? (this is a real dog breed. look it up.) Will we just keep banning breeds until no one can own a dog at all? Or maybe we should focus on the real problem, the irresponsible owners and the regulations about all dogs. "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 22, 2008 9:24 PM:

" Jackson...of course you pulled a gun on someone in LaX and nothing happened to you!!! I think the last guy to do that got 3 years +/-

HA, I have also seen that on tv before...its sad and unfortunate...and I believe the women actually was sentence to 2 years in jail for the attack..GOOD...I think she deserved more...I also believe that the owner of big boi should have the book thrown at her too!!!
this is not my point on this topic...if you can come up w/ a solution to the problem w/ out infringing on 'responsible owners' im all for it...the problem is that you cant!!!

Whats the solution??? I would get any certification, take any class but all dogs in Lax would have to take it...not just bully breeds!!! "

Im Still Jackson wrote on Aug 22, 2008 4:53 PM:

" I was on Denton street and a guy was walking his big pitbull and I told him to cross the street and come no further and he kept comming saying she dont bite and I was in my trunk and I pulled out my handgun and said I know now get that dog away from me or I WILL SHOOT IT DEAD right here and now. I been attacked by pitbulls more than once and I have a conceal carry permit here in NC. I had my guns with me while up there and I would of had no problem dealing with the cops over the issue, but that dog would had been dead right then and there had he not got it away from me and I mean OFF THE BLOCK AWAY! "

Im Still Jackson wrote on Aug 22, 2008 4:36 PM:

" HAAAAAA Ms MOOSE: They were walking on the hot day with temperatures in the 90s when the dog became obsessed with something in the bushes. When she refused to move on, Gomez investigated and discovered a box full of 3-week-old orange tabby kittens that were frightened and hungry.
And had the owner not been there to stop that dog it probably would have ate those kittens!
THE ONLY GOOD PITBULL IS A DEAD PITBULL! "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 22, 2008 4:11 PM:

" Until you've dealt with the snarling muscle with teeth on the business end, I really dont think you can understand peoples fear.

My dog was attacked, we won,,, my sister encountered a loose pitbull that caused a lot of problems.

Never an issue like this with any other breed, and not all problems make the media ... this is just my experience. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 22, 2008 4:07 PM:

" conscience?, probably because they are either in cages or on a leash per the rules of the show.

Here's a pit owner that is more realistic, at least she shows concern after the fact. This is the type of thing people think of when you say pitbull. Show me another video of a poodle attacking a humane society officer to this degree.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZID0lEyikUI "

k9mum wrote on Aug 22, 2008 1:38 PM:

" HA said....Big bullies do not fit in any of these categories, other than "security guard", or "inmate". More liability than they're worth!Hope that clarifies a bit for you. "

Maybe I can clarify a bit for you...They are a LOT of them out their doing good for their communities in just those areas you stated.

I personally own two Rottweilers that are vey active pet therapy dogs (as well as obedience, agility, herding, tracking and anything else I think of to do with them)...I had a previous rottie, Merlin, who did the same for over 5 years all over the area. There are many more rottie and bully therapy teams out there in the La Crosse area...I can think of at least eight other teams.

I understand we might be the minority, but we are a larger minority than you give credit for. "

conscience? wrote on Aug 22, 2008 1:21 PM:

" Abe,
Tell me why you never hear of a Staffordshire Terrier or an American Pitbull Terrier or even a Rottweiler in the show circuit attacking. They would all attack if it were an enzyme imbalance within the breed that makes them attack. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 22, 2008 1:02 PM:

" Abe- I am very upset, appalled, disgusted and outraged that this attack even took place. I would be just as upset if this attack was by any other breed. I am not so sure everyone else would be. That is what I am concerned about. A lot of people want answers and actions taken, as do I. But to outright ban and condemn the bully breeds would not solve the problem of irresponsible owners of any type of dog. That is my point. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 22, 2008 11:37 AM:

" We need pro-pit owners to come to a meeting with the victims, and let both sides debate and come to a solution. If the pit owners would get as upset at the attacks as the victims ... instead of just automatically defending them, it would help their argument a bit I think.

Personally though, I do not think there needs to be a dog with that much power in neighborhoods where there are kids that could possibly provoke the dog. That's my stance. Will be interesting to see how this plays out locally. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 22, 2008 11:35 AM:

" conscience, true, we do hear a lot of bad press because the owner bred them to be 'tough' instead of a family pet. I still believe, and can prove the breed is more apt to attack due to an enzyme imbalance, than any other breed. I will save that argument for an official debate.

There are many sites on the web that either based to ban the breed, or in defense of the breed. For whatever reason laws need to be put in place to protect the public, and the dogs from over-breeding, and mistreatment. It's the Michael Vicks that are breeding these dogs and giving them a bad rap as well. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 22, 2008 11:27 AM:

" Tank, It's a little obvious that those sites were designed just for this purpose, to 'prove' they aren't bad dogs as a breed.

I too could build a website against them and show the other side if I so chose, like the bite wounds, and photos of the dog being carted off on a tether pole. I could cite court processes on euthenization proceedings, showing how out of control they are. A total opposite site showing their proven bad side. I may just build such a website over the winter months to give a rebuttal to the pro-sites. No other dog is so debated, and a site showing the downfalls of their upbringing and bite power is due.

We'll see how the city handles this, I appreciate your input, and will still fight for tighter regulations. "

conscience? wrote on Aug 22, 2008 11:21 AM:

" Abe-
You're right, but Pits EVERYWHERE in this country are out of control. They are bred to be aggressive watchdogs and a symbol of power. Good breeding and training is needed to stop these attacks.
I think that's what everyone is arguing about. Most people think that every pit will attack or kill and it's simply not true. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 22, 2008 11:06 AM:

" Tank, ok, they do work and play a civic role in some areas. You do have to agree that is not the majority though, and that most of the pits in this area are kept as security guards for those that can't protect themselves.

Back to the base concern, pits in -this- area being out of control, over bred and not trained properly.

That is what I'm concentrating my opinions and facts on, this area, within our city limits. I live in the area of the attack, and it's a bigger problem than I think you realize. "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 22, 2008 1:09 AM:

" HA quote:
"Tank, I realize you can spin what I say in numbers and function, but I've never seen a pitbull do any of the jobs you mention, it's out there, but not widely used."

the reason youve never seen a pitbull do any of these jobs is because youve NEVER LOOKED!!!

http://www.lawdogsusa.org/home.html

3 minutes of searching...thats it...3 minutes "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 22, 2008 12:52 AM:

" Tanktastic...Awesome websites!!! Thank You!!!

Unless you go to these websites and read what well trained 'pits' w/ responsible owners can and will do...your words are pointless!!!

I learned something interesting on one of those sites: Dutch government to lift 25-year ban on pit bulls

The Dutch government says it will lift a long-standing ban on pit bulls because it did not lead to any decrease in bite incidents.

Agriculture Minister Gerda Verburg has informed parliament of the decision, which follows the advice of a commission of experts appointed to review the policy.

Instead, the country will focus on enforcing local leashing laws and owner education programs. "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 22, 2008 12:37 AM:

" HA, HA...quote "The most common, most loyal and easily trainable are German Shepherds and labs."

...do you realize that your loyal K9 cop Hero the German Shepard (GSD) was in the 70's and the 80's the 'PIT BULL' of that era...the general public feared them just as w/ the pit bull now...WHY??? Media!!! My wife bears a scar on her face she received as a child from a GSD...she does not fear them, its the exact opposite, she loves them...she realizes its the specific dog not the breed as a whole!!!

arguing on OPINION alone is not how you win a debate...FACTS, RESEARCH and OPINION is how how to win a debate... "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 21, 2008 11:35 PM:

" Positive pitbulls. I dare the nay sayers to read. http://www.animalfarmfoundation.org/item.php?item=134 "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 21, 2008 11:28 PM:

" Abe- or anyone else who would like to learn what these dogs can do besides attack. http://www.workingpitbull.com/activities2ndpage.html "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 21, 2008 11:18 PM:

" Abe- I did not assume you were an expert and I know these are your opinions. I respect that. I am just putting my knowledge and opinions about the subject on here. Again I know German Shepherds are the most common police dog and labs and retrievers are the most common in the service world. A lot of the bully breeds excel at both police work and service work. The reason they are not as well known is all the bad publicity hinders peoples perception about these breeds. Irresponsible owners=bad dogs=bad publicity. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 21, 2008 10:13 PM:

" Get off the 'offical studies' already, these are my opionions Mr.Google expert. (dipsh)

Tank, I realize you can spin what I say in numbers and function, but I've never seen a pitbull do any of the jobs you mention, it's out there, but not widely used. The most common, most loyal and easily trainable are German Shepherds and labs.

Im not claiming to be an expert, you guys seem to think that is what I'm attempting. I've never claimed to be an authority, just someone passionate about getting these muscle breeds under control, and holding owners to a higher standard. As I'm sure... the CenturyTel field technicians would agree with.

Have a nice night. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 21, 2008 10:06 PM:

" re ABE- To your post on Aug. 21,2008 6:59pm.
I laughed so hard. Sorry but I couldn't help it. Bully breeds excel in most of the jobs you listed. They are wonderful therapy dogs, search and rescue, bomb sniffing, they can even help cure depression the list goes on. I don't think you know anything about the breeds except what you read in the papers or hear on the news. Seriously I thought you were better than that. "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 21, 2008 9:59 PM:

" HA, these kittens too!!!

Angel the dog credited with saving kittens

RENO, Nev. (AP) -- You've heard of man bites dog. What about, dog saves cats? A two-year-old dog that had been turned over to the Nevada Humane Society's shelter in Reno is being credited with rescuing six abandoned kittens.

Shelter Director Diane Blankenburg said it happened Monday while the two-year-old Boxer/Pit Bull mix named Angel was on a walk with a pair of volunteers, Frank Gomez and his 9-year-old stepson, Joel Fontes.

They were walking on the hot day with temperatures in the 90s when the dog became obsessed with something in the bushes. When she refused to move on, Gomez investigated and discovered a box full of 3-week-old orange tabby kittens that were frightened and hungry. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 21, 2008 9:53 PM:

" Abe- I did not say all dogs. I said 90%. I am well aware of all the important jobs our K9 friends have and do well. I am saying 90%, or there about, do not do any kind of job. They are just pets. "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 21, 2008 9:06 PM:

" HA, HA, HA quote: Any of these dogs, in my opinion, are unstable, and are not needed. They're not needed, because who needs a dog that can bite through a cinder block?

CINDER BLOCK??? I want to see that study!!!

people is the south that use them to help control the wild hog problem...THATS WHO!!!now if i could get a couple bad @ss pitties and train them to hunt down all those wild pigs near gays mill will you shut up PLEASE????? "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 21, 2008 7:05 PM:

" conscience, you make an excellent point, in that, there can't be a law against one certain breed. Any of these dogs, in my opinion, are unstable, and are not needed. They're not needed, because who needs a dog that can bite through a cinder block?

Thats why I really believe that there needs to be laws put in place based on bite power. Skull size, muscle mass in the head, overall girth. I'm sure the lawmakers and coulee humane can come up with the proper equation.

Don't ban the breed, ban the bite power. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 21, 2008 6:59 PM:

" Tanktastic, a lot of dogs do serve a purpose, just ask the police departments new K-9 cop.

Spend duck hunting opener near a boat ramp and check out all the useful dogs that allow fewer crippled ducks to suffer.

Ask a blind person if they appreciate their eye dog, or why they want one.

Bomb sniffing dogs, battlefield dogs, lap dogs that cure depression, and the list goes on.

Big bullies do not fit in any of these categories, other than "security guard", or "inmate". More liability than they're worth!

Hope that clarifies a bit for you. "

toconsider wrote on Aug 21, 2008 3:15 PM:

" While you all have made very clear where you stand on the subject, I do find it interesting that the blame is on the dog, the breed, the owner....what about the officials? If there is report of dogs biting from this residence previously, maybe this could have been prevented? "

conscience? wrote on Aug 21, 2008 3:09 PM:

" There's a company called K9 Heritage that does doggy DNA testing for breed identification. You swab the dogs mouth, send in the DNA and they send you back a certificate of the breed or breeds of your dog. I'm sure it could be mainstreamed for law enforcement. "

mac wrote on Aug 21, 2008 1:08 PM:

" Conscience, yes pit bull is a term used to define a group of bully breeds. There is no hard and fast definition that could be used to classify dogs for enforcement. Obviously the term includes the purebred breeds you mentioned, but in reality dogs with no papers are hard to identify with any certainty for law enforcement. "

conscience? wrote on Aug 21, 2008 12:52 PM:

" I need some help with terminology. Is "Pitbull" a term used for a few different breeds including the Staffordshire Terrier, American Pitbull Terrier, Bull terrier, and American Bulldog? So pitbull isn't a breed but a grouping? Does it include all mixes and dogs related to these breeds? "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 21, 2008 10:50 AM:

" Abe- There is no "need" for 90% or more of all dogs these days. Most dogs do not perform the jobs they were intended for in this day and age. So why do so many people own a dog at all if there is no "need" for them?

Guess what breed would fall into your category 100% of the time. Canis Panther would be at the top of the list not the pitbull. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 21, 2008 10:01 AM:

" Tanktastic, you're right, they are bullies.

It can be regulated without being breed specific.

It can go by head measurement with bone to muscle ratio to determine bite power (lbs. / sq. in.) and any dog over a certain threshhold would have rules placed on it, regarless of breed.

Guess what breed will fall into that category 99% of the time?

Theres no need for these big dogs, none! "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 21, 2008 8:49 AM:

" notme- As a responsible bully owner I don't want any rules or regulations put into place that would force me to get rid of my dog or never be able to own another. I do believe however that owning these breeds and not being responsible puts others in danger of being hurt or even killed. This infringes upon the rights of others. This is why I believe (even as an owner myself) there should be more done to protect the general public from ALL DOGS who may be dangerous. "

notme wrote on Aug 21, 2008 7:39 AM:

" Former PitOwner:

Not quite right. Yes, it's a few bad apples that cause the government to OVER REACT, but it is the complacent majority the lets the government OVER REACT.

We don't need any new regulations concerning dogs, we just need the complacent majority to STOP OVER REACTING when people exercise their rights/responsibilities. "

Former PitOwner wrote on Aug 20, 2008 11:28 PM:

" That's the way it is with everything in this country it seems. It only takes a few ignorant people to ruin things for everyone else. It's nothing new. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 11:00 PM:

" Mr.Moose- Sorry. This subject really gets me worked up.

I believe that the responsible owners are going to have to be inconvenienced a bit just because of the irresponsible ones. This of course sucks but I am willing to be inconvenienced a bit to 1)keep my dog and 2)to keep these breeds out of the hands of the irresponsible morons who have given them their bad name. It will happen and I will be there with my dog to put my two (probably more) cents in. "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 20, 2008 9:51 PM:

" I realize it takes a special person w/ a specific mentality and training to raise a dominant breed...but because of a few 'idiots' everyone owning a bully breed will be scrutinized by the general public...it happened to me last night out walking my dogs...a lady crossed the street and yelled "you should be ashamed of owning a pit bull"...I explained to her that mine is not a pit bull and encouraged her to meet my dog....she said she couldnt because her little barky mop dog isnt friendly w/ other dog...IRONIC i thought!!!

A few bad apples do not ruin the bushel "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 20, 2008 9:50 PM:

" Tanktastic: re Mr.Moose- Not all pro-pit owners are uneducated. I am an avid lover all bully breeds and rotties.

I'm on your side...I too am an avid lover of bully breeds...i'm petting my 'bully' right now...i was commenting on HA's "Have you ever noticed the pro-owners seem a little under educated and clueless? Wonder if there is a connection there? (tank is the exception)" "

sad sally wrote on Aug 20, 2008 6:35 PM:

" J.T.B. Gets the award for the best comment ever!! "

Mac wrote on Aug 20, 2008 6:35 PM:

" There were also an additional 106 comments in the two articles previous to this update... "

theblob wrote on Aug 20, 2008 5:24 PM:

" Oopps, should be 8-20-08 as story was printed 8-19-08. I wonder if anyone really reads all of these blogs or not or what was highest number blogs to a news story ever. "

theblob wrote on Aug 20, 2008 5:21 PM:

" On 8-19-08 @ 5:15pm, 212 blog comments after 1 day of this story. Wow, most blogs in long time. I think the Tribune and government officials and Humane Society should take notice of peoples concerns about this IMPORTANT problem in our local area. Most bloggers seem to want BETTER laws/investigating about this situation with dogs attacking unprovoked. "

OnaRes wrote on Aug 20, 2008 3:39 PM:

" " To all of you who say pit bulls were not bred to fight take a look at the following web page. I have included some quotes from that page:
"Pit Bull is a term commonly used to describe several breeds of dog in the Molosser family that were historically used for dog fighting"

"They were also bred to be intelligent and level-headed during fights"

And to put blame on the owner here is a quote from the web page.

"Lack of proper socialization and strong training can result in a dog with aggressive tendencies. Under the care of an overly-permissive or uneducated owner, Pit Bulls can become very dangerous dogs."

you can verify this at:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pit_bull " "

IAmRight wrote on Aug 20, 2008 3:25 PM:

" The difference is if a small dog attacks me I'll kick it in the head. If a pitbull attacks me it will eat my leg. "

Responsible_Owner wrote on Aug 20, 2008 3:18 PM:

" IAmRight & AMom: Search for dog temperament and you will see all over every website... "Diminutive size does not mean a mildness of temperament; many little dogs are as tough as their larger cousins. As a rule (Pug excepted), they do not like small children, and their movements can be too quick for elderly family members. "

As far as my Lab goes, Guess your better off trying to get into my house with the Pit bull defending it than the Lab...

Lets all agree with FEDUP1234!!!

Should fear all dogs in which you do not know personally LARGE OR SMALL BREED!!! "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 1:36 PM:

" reddie- I agree with you 100%. Protecting the public is number 1. But punishing the resposible owners along with the bad does not seem right. I am appalled at the lack of action taken by the county after the first incident. The owner should have been made to comply with orders to properly and safely contain the dogs or the dogs would be removed. Apparently there were no orders given or there was no follow up to make sure they were complied with. Either way the county knew of these dogs and situation and failed to protect the public. "

reddie wrote on Aug 20, 2008 1:12 PM:

" To Tanktastik.

I agree with you to a point, I do not want all my rights taken away. But in some situations I think if it is going to protect the rest of the public then it is okay.

I guess knowing that my dog was NOT prevoked in any way, I was just walking around in my yard, it come up and attacked me. (we have underground fence so dog was allowed free roam of the yard when we are outside) I was not even interacting with the dog at the time. "

Amom wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:58 PM:

" I agree with IamRight about Responsible_Owner. I would actually be more afraid of the pit though. If the lab growls and barks, that is like a warning to stay away. The pit is quiet and seems nice, but could snap with NO warning. That seems more dangerous to me. Also, where do you get your "facts?" "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:58 PM:

" most dogs bite out of fear not aggression. The case with BigBoy clearly sounds like aggression though. "

bucketz wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:56 PM:

" FACT - Pitbulls KILL people, small breeds don't. "

IAmRight wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:53 PM:

" To Responsible_Owner - Maybe you're not a very good source on this subject if you have a lab that should be feared. And as for your "fact" -anyone can say FACT, then make up some BS. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:53 PM:

" re reddie- The reason the county officials gave you the option to take the dog back is that some dog bites are provoked and some happen out of too rough play often resulting in a family member being bitten. The county was not there to wittness the bite and could not assume what happened leading up to the bite. It was your dog and therefore your decision. Lets not let everyone else make our decisions for us. "

Responsible_Owner wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:34 PM:

" To Truth: You do not hear about those other breeds you mention due to the fact of all the publicity the media gives to any "bully breed". I have a 12 year old pit and a 4 year old Black Lab. The lab is the one to fear in the household! He is the one who growls and barks whereas the pit does not. Give other dogs more media coverage and you will see them in the news.

To HonestAbe: Your theory of bite pressure sounds good but is flawed. Little dogs have the sharper teeth and can make many tiny puncture wounds that would bleed just as any other dog.

FACT - Smaller breeds tend to snap mentally more frequently than larger breeds! "

reddie wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:22 PM:

" I blame the county officials, why was I even offered to keep this dog if it bit me....that should not even be an option. Immedietly it should be put down....no option to keep it. No questions asked. "

reddie wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:21 PM:

" My wrist and arm are still not back to "normal" I have very painful cramps quite often and my arm is still larger than the other. I am not assuming that it will ever be "normal" again.

I feel for these Centurytel workers, as the dog that bit them was much more powerful than the one that bit me......

The breed in itself is known for this, and if she had another dog on the property attack last year, why does she have more??? "

reddie wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:21 PM:

" Two years ago I was attacked by my own family dog, NOT A PITBULL, but a Siberian Husky. I had to have several stitches put in my lower arm, my whole arm swelled up like a balloon, and I was very sore for several weeks. I had to file a police report while in the hospital getting stitches, animal control had to come to my house, and we had the option to put the dog in quarantine for 10 days and take it back. I think not, I have three children and the dog bit me, no way was I going to take it back. The police department ended up shooting the dog on our property and it got sent off for testing. "

Former PitOwner wrote on Aug 20, 2008 11:00 AM:

" To the imposter Responsible_0wner, I do think your posts are humorous, but then, I have a good sense of humor. Some people just take themselves and life too seriously.
I'm not going to make a comment on what I think should be done with the dog(s) or owner in this case as I think it's pretty obvious what needs to be done with them or about them. However, I will say that we all need to be careful about any freedoms that we think should be taken away from other people. Afterall, this IS America. If I lived in a neighborhood where there were animals on the loose that I thought I needed to be concerned about for the safety of myself and my kids, I would be carrying a weapon whether it was legal or not. "

Former PitOwner wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:50 AM:

" Today I own a female Black Lab and love her very much. I don't think there's an aggresive bone in her body, however, I also have grand children and if she ever so much as sneered the wrong way toward any of them she would be gone. "

Former PitOwner wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:46 AM:

" notme:
I agree 100% with you. You make a great point when you compare defending yourself against a wild dog. I myself have had pitbulls in the past, in my younger days. While the first of the two pits I owned was fine, never had even a close call with him, the second was a different story. In today's society I would need too much insurance coverage to make it feasible because I do believe that they are too unpredictable the older they get. The scary part about them is that they do not give any kind of warning. In all the years I had my pits I never once heard either of them growl. "

kay27 wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:45 AM:

" I had a friend with twin boys. Because of her neighbor's pitbull they are no longer identical. If the boy had been bitten by a cocker spaniel I don't think the damage would have been as bad. "

kay27 wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:42 AM:

" I was bitten as child by my grandparents dog (not a pitbull). Grandpa took the dog into the field and shot it that day. ANY dog that bites needs to be put down. I grew up with dogs and have one now. If it attacked someone, it would be put to sleep.

People are more important than pets!! If you put the life of your pet over the safety of your neighbors, there is something seriously wrong with you. "

notme wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:31 AM:

" I was also not the first to bring up firearms. On the original articles (comments long since gone) there was more than one post that had the "if a dog came at me like that, I'd kill it" tone. "

notme wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:28 AM:

" I never said I couldn't go outside without a firearm. My original stance was that if either the TC students or the phone guys had been armed, as is their right, this whole thing would have been averted.

I didn't bring up concealed carry. Carrying concealed only becomes a requirement when irrational people over react.

I didn't insult or call anyone names, but many of you on here sure took it upon yourselves to call me names, especially those of you who claim to own firearms, why? If you are out hunting, and a wolf or coyote comes after you certainly you defend yourself and shoot it, but walking along on the street and getting attacked by a similar animal (exactly what happened here) is indefensible?

I'd love to here a rational (no name calling) explanation for the difference between the two. "

tribreader1 wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:22 AM:

" also to Devon:
I DO have personal family experience with the breed. A 6yr old Pitt raised by a family member in a loving home suddenly snapped one day and attacked with no provocation. BUT, you do not need to have person interaction with them to form a logical opinion. All you need to do is read the facts, stat sheets and story after story in the papers to know this breed is dangerous. If you choose to endanger yourself, friends and family by owning one, that is your choice. But make sure the dogs are secure and cannot escape to hurt any innocent people in the surrounding areas. Owners and people like yourself that refuse to acknowledge the danger inherent in this breed facilitate many of these attacks. "

tribreader1 wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:17 AM:

" to Devon:
You accuse everyone on this board of being brainwashed & ignorant in knowledge of the breed. The hypocrisy here is that it is YOU who has zero knowledge of the breed. In the great majority of pitbull attacks, the attack was the 1st time the dog had ever shown aggression. Previous to the attack, the dogs had always been the "loving" pet that you describe your friends' dog as being. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:13 AM:

" Im Still Jackson- Your pet tiger analogy has one problem. Tigers have not been domesticated like the dog has been for centuries. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:10 AM:

" All dogs are inherently the same. Centuries and centuries of domesticating and refining (selective breeding) have given us the breeds we all know today. Regulate them if you will. Just make sure it's the responsible owner/breeder who is not in the wrong. "

Im Still Jackson wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:10 AM:

" PicklesPlease
wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:11 AM:
" It is the breed--but the bleeding hearts will deny it until one of their own children gets its face eaten. If you don't believe me, get a pet tiger and raise it with love and affection. Then see how many years it lives before deciding you look like dinner.
I couldnt agree more,ironically the part about the tiger was exactly what I proposed to clean up the problem in my neighborhood here in NC. It was so pitbull infested that you couldnt walk down the street without a gun. Dogfighting was rampant ect. There was even a murder in my back lot where they were fighting them where one dog owner shot the other dead.
I applied for an exotic pet permit to raise lions and tigers. The cops and animal control cleaned it all up pronto.I was denied. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:07 AM:

" truth- Different breeds do have different characteristics and have come by them through selective breeding. The responsible bully breeders of today are breeding the trait of fighting out. Lessening the prey drive if you will against other living beings, and strenghtening the other good qualities. This takes time and is greatly hindered by those who breed irresponsibly for the aggressivness everyone associates with the bully breeds. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:02 AM:

" as I said in the updated one- until people in this country start taking resposibilty for all their actions and inactions more laws will be put into place to give the irresponsible people a kick in the butt and make the responsible people wonder where has this great coutry gone wrong. "

truth wrote on Aug 20, 2008 9:47 AM:

" To: Everyone defending the pitbull breed.

Why do we never (or very, very rarley) hear about labs, retrievers, boxers, poodles, pointers, huskies, etc. attacking people? Why is it always pitbulls and rottweilers?

Yes training can make a dog much nicer but certain breeds have certain characteristics. Just like different races in humans have different characteristics. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 9:25 AM:

" bucketz- I know notme started the whole gun thing. I wish we could spay and neuter the irresponsible owners. It would not prevent them from having a nasty dog but would prevent them from having little hooligans like themselves. Alas it already has been deemed unconstitutional to do so. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 9:22 AM:

" does anyone know if Big Boy was neutered? All dogs change a little when they reach sexual maturity. Some more than others. Another stipulation to owning this breed would be to have them spayed/neutered. That would also help out in the overcrowding of our shelters and reduce the risk of one falling into bad hands. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 9:17 AM:

" re Mr.Moose- Not all pro-pit owners are uneducated. I am an avid lover all bully breeds and rotties. I have studied dog behavior and am a certified dog trainer. I myself own a rott/pit mix and I myself believe there should be regulations and strict requirements met before someone can own the breed or I should say breed types. Not everyone is suitable to own these kinds of dogs. It is the irresponsible uneducated owners that everyone reads about so that is all the general public knows about. I am all for allowing these breed types to certified owners. Classes, tests, home checks, background checks. These things could all be paid for by handing out fines to those who are not certified. As well as a small certification fee and extra license fee every year. Those willing to pay would certainly be more responsible. "

bucketz wrote on Aug 20, 2008 9:09 AM:

" I'm not the one who started talking about guns. It was that notme crackpot. And it's people like him who give gun owners a bad name. Back to the topic - maybe pitbull owners should be neutered since most of them don't use common sense with their dogs. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 9:03 AM:

" re bucketz- not everyone wants to carry. Those who wish to carry concealed would have to abide by the laws governing the ability to carry. I don't understand people that think having the ability to carry concealed would result in chaos and a shoot-em-up environment. Those who wish to carry concealed would have to pay to have the ability and also go through classes and strict testing to deem them safe and suitable to do so. Lets get back to the issue here. I am sure there will be a blog all to itself about the carry issue. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 20, 2008 8:56 AM:

" re wsreader- In this day and age not all pitbulls are bred for attacking. Responsible breeders are breeding this trait out. It is the irresponsible uneducated breeders looking for a quick buck that create the montsters we all read about in the paper. "

bucketz wrote on Aug 20, 2008 8:56 AM:

" I agree with Moose. I'm not anti-gun, but can you imagine if everyone carried a gun? Think about how much fun downtown would be at bar time on a Saturday night! "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 20, 2008 8:47 AM:

" Mac: Thanks for the heads up!!! i'll get the updated version of the 'how to spell words wrong dictionary' today at barnes and nobles :)

notme or should i can you nutme....your fixation on the right to bear arms is a LITTLE disturbing...now before you blow your lid and quote gun rights to me...i own guns, i shoot guns and if you came into my home i would shoot you w/ said firearm...but come on. this is not 1776, nor is it the wild, wild west...you'd be popping off rounds at squirrels jumping from tree to tree thinkin' THEY'RE coming after you "

bucketz wrote on Aug 20, 2008 8:45 AM:

" notme - I didn't say we should lock ourselves in our homes, I said you should because you're such a wuss. You're not tough enough to handle the outside world without a firearm. "

notme wrote on Aug 20, 2008 8:13 AM:

" "Let me guess, you drive an over-sized truck even though you have no use for it and you wear a camo ballcap." WRONG!

"You're the type of wannabe vigilante who if you ever pulled your firearm would be shaking so bad the person you were going to shoot would take it away from you and shove it up your a$$. Get over your bad self." WRONG!

I don't want to be anything, I just want to be able to exercise my rights without the public panicking and LEO over reacting. "

notme wrote on Aug 20, 2008 8:01 AM:

" Karate or boxing lessons would have done no good in this case. Article 1, Section 25 of the state constitution restricts the government's power PROTECTING our right to carry. The State Supreme Court, and Governor Doyle have both stated the OPEN CARRY is OUR RIGHT and perfectly legal, no training or certification of any kind needed.

For you to suggest that we should lock ourselves in our homes, thereby limiting our freedom, instead of exercising our rights is the most unconstitutional anti-American thing I've heard yet. "

Northsidersrule wrote on Aug 20, 2008 7:52 AM:

" notme - Let me guess, you drive an over-sized truck even though you have no use for it and you wear a camo ballcap. You're the type of wannabe vigilante who if you ever pulled your firearm would be shaking so bad the person you were going to shoot would take it away from you and shove it up your a$$. Get over your bad self. "

notme wrote on Aug 20, 2008 7:46 AM:

" Why can't we OPEN CARRY to protect ourselves? Because when we do, go to Menards or the Mall, or Wall-Mart, just look at the hoops we have to go through.

1. Exit vehicle.
2. Retrieve firearm (cased & unloaded).
3. Remove from case, load, and holster.
4. Return case to vehicle making sure NOT to enter vehicle.

By that time, there will be at least three MWAG calls to LEO. We enter store, three or four more people over react and call LEO. Swat team (bearcat) besiege store. We are forced to the ground at gunpoint, disarmed, and arrested for disorderly conduct.

This IS happening in Wisconsin, so please tell me how we exercise the right. "

bucketz wrote on Aug 20, 2008 6:57 AM:

" To notme - Stop being such a wussy! Why can't you defend yourself without a gun? Maybe it's time you take karate or boxing lessons. Maybe that would toughen you up and you wouldn't be so scared. Until then, lock yourself in your home so you don't get beat up by some bully. "

Vindicator wrote on Aug 20, 2008 6:52 AM:

" re: Please 6:49pm

Are you a member of the La Crosse school board? "

mac wrote on Aug 20, 2008 3:05 AM:

" Moose, you can't even spell unedgamacated properly. :) "

mac wrote on Aug 20, 2008 2:54 AM:

" Tanktastic, this article you quoted, http://www.la-spca.org/dedication/talk/t_judge.htm, is absolutely horrible. Basically it tries to minimalize the issue by saying that kids die all the time and that we shouldn't worry so much about the ones killed by dogs. It then goes on to say that pit bulls are responsible for 21% of the deaths in the study they quoted and again tries to minimalize the issue by saying that there are also other breeds that kill... That's a pretty poor arguement... "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:50 AM:

" HA,HA, HA...quote "Have you ever noticed the pro-owners seem a little under educated and clueless? Wonder if there is a connection there? (tank is the exception)"

i guess i will take my b.a. and masters certs off the wall since the mighty HA, deems me unedgeamakated!!! "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:41 AM:

" HA, HA, HA...at least I know that LaCrosse has an E at the end "There are ways around this 'breed' argument, and I will do whatever I can to get this in front of our leaders and argue my case for the safety of the LaCross public"

And for different article...your jaw psi comment was also on last nights post...or did you forget??? oh, thanks for the debate class 101 lesson!!! BTW, my 'bully' dog would probably lick you to death...its the little one you need to watch out for!!!

HA, 0 pts for creativity also...DIPSH,,???

Deed not the Breed!!!

also, i dont capitalize everything either!!! sorry "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:05 AM:

" Also, DipSh,,, a proper way to initial someones name would be H.A.

Just had to throw that in so you can at least try and act more educated in future posts.

You should have learned in school (*should*) ... that when debating, you don't bring emotions into it.

I just don't understand why pitbull owners will defend them defend them defend them, instead of trying to see the other side. Do you just like to argue? Is it a cult of sorts? Are you just clueless? I'm trying to see your side is all. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:01 AM:

" Mr.Moose, lol or DipSh as you shall be referred to, this is a whole different article. Keep up.

I hope you do come to the meetings, and it's a gleeming example of your mentality, that you need a tough dog to be tough.

If I am tougher than your tough dog, what does that say about me vs. you? hmmm Bring it. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:59 PM:

" happymom clearly is not happy. She tries to play Ms.Morality all over the place, always good for a laugh.

I live in the area where this happened, and there are too many of this breed in this area, change is coming.

Have you ever noticed the pro-owners seem a little under educated and clueless? Wonder if there is a connection there? (tank is the exception) "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:55 PM:

" HA states: "Lets put a law in place limiting the bite power (lbs. / sq. inch) of any breed! Problem solved."

Once again as I stated last night will the state, county, city spend the $$$ to jaw test each and every dog???

HA also states: "There are ways around this 'breed' argument, and I will do whatever I can to get this in front of our leaders and argue my case for the safety of the LaCross public. "

I want to go to these meetings to finally figure out who you are...I'll bring my dog too!!! "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:43 PM:

" Most of the pitbulls I see, are clearly sh*tbulls, they have that massive head, pink lips, high pitch squeel of a bark. I am willing to bet if only 99.5 % of the obvious ones were put into a controlled group, things would improve. Of course .5% may not be noticed, but I'd rather have .5% pitbull mixes out there than what we have now.

Your arguments are weak, and I'll never understand the plight of the owner to defend, instead of empathyze with the victims. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:42 PM:

" I just find it very odd, the people that will defend these dogs to a great extent, , , for what?

If you need a tough dog, that doesn't say much for your ability to defend YOURSELF, that should be priority 1. Maybe you should be in a karate class, or in a gun shop, instead of blogging on how its your right to have a dog that is a missile that can get fired at will, in any direction.

I hope this owner gets sued and charged to the hilt, just to send a message. Good luck fighting CenturyTels team of lawyers. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:41 PM:

" Lets put a law in place limiting the bite power (lbs. / sq. inch) of any breed! Problem solved.

There are ways around this 'breed' argument, and I will do whatever I can to get this in front of our leaders and argue my case for the safety of the LaCross public. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:41 PM:

" City council, open up a public debate / meeting to hear peoples cases for and against this breed in deciding to legislate against this BREED as other cities have.

I GUARANTEE you I can come up with evidence against them, as well as just plain good old arguing points.

I've stabbed one to death that was attacking my dog and I once, my sister just experienced this once this summer with her new dog.

THESE ARE NOT ISOLATED incidents, we only hear about the outrageous ones.

Open it up to the public, put it up to a VOTE if need be!! "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:40 PM:

" There are many dogs that are raised in unhealthy environments, and they don't jump a fence and put 2 people in the hospital. Those dogs become wimps, and cowards and keep their tail between their legs and are afraid of people.

This dog "loved its family" so much, it was attacking to protect them! It was thinking these guys are attacking my territory, and the people that feed me!! ATTACK ATTACK ATTACK and did. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:40 PM:

" I just don't get the people that defend this BREED. Pits are at the top of the list when it comes to attacking, do you people not understand numbers? Is that where the saying came from "this is the pits"? lol

You people that want to have a big bad tough dog should get karate lessons or buy a gun for home protection, at least THEN you'd have total control. The only way to make sure a pit will never attack is to keep it in a cage 24/7.

IT IS THE BREED, IT IS THE BREED, ONCE MORE, IT ISSSSS THE BREEEEED. "

Frank wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:40 PM:

" " HEY FRANK. WHERE DID YOU GO TO SCHOOL? OR DID YOU? "

That is downright hilarious stuff there devo. "

wsreader wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:40 PM:

" Pitbulls are a nasty breed. Period. They are bred to attack and kill. "

HonestAbe wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:40 PM:

" THERE NEEDS TO BE LEGISLATION LEVELED ON THIS BREED.

We've discussed this many times in this town, on these blogs,
and nothing ever gets done.

These dogs trained well or not, are causing a lot of problems.
Either there needs to a ban, or stipulations put in place, one
of which would be to own this breed,
you need insurance up to your teeth. "

Mr.Moose wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:23 PM:

" Tanktastic great article...here's a quick bit from it...'Even more surprising is that approximately 50 infants die each year from broken baby cribs, and 250 newborns die at the hands of their parents or guardians. In comparison, two infants, on average, die a year from dog attacks' Ban baby cribs i guess will be next... "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:08 PM:

" I am the proud owner of an 8 year old rott/pit mix named Tank. My family, my friends, my vet and anyone who frequented Happenings and/or Bronco's 5-6 years ago know what a great dog he is. I firmly believe it is the owner not the dog who is at fault. But sadly the dog will pay the ultimate price. "

Anna Banana wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:57 PM:

" To Annabanana....like your name just wished you were more creative. "

wilsonbuddy wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:45 PM:

" I hope they get rid of both the dogs. My daughter was bit by one of these same dogs from this same residence not this last spring but the spring before. She was just walking by the house and the dog ran out of the house and bit her in the back of the leg. Thank goodness the owner was there to grab the dog. I hate to even think of what could have happened. Those breeds of dogs need to be banned and illegle to own. It was reported. Its about time they start taking them away. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:05 PM:

" re notme- Lets say that all responsible parties could carry concealed. Would century-tel allow their workers to carry on the job? I highly doubt it. Also would a small child be able to carry to protect themselves? I think not. Listen I am all for carrying concealed (proud member of the NRA thank you) but I doubt it would have made a difference in this instance. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:57 PM:

" I find the stats in this article to be staggering. You may as well.

http://www.la-spca.org/dedication/talk/t_judge.htm "

notme wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:52 PM:

" Annabanana
wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:59 PM:

Thank you for making my point. If a large dog comes at me, and retreat is no longer an option, I will defend myself.

Had the TC kids defended themselves, the phone guys wouldn't have been bitten. If the phone guys had defended themselves after the first attack, the other two wouldn't have happened.

It keeps coming back to our inability to properly defend ourselves. "

Just Commenting wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:50 PM:

" By the way...study the fence in that picture. If that is the yard where the dogs are kept, that fence couldn't keep a toddler in, let alone a powerful dog! "

Just Commenting wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:46 PM:

" People have been commenting on how the owner showed affection and love for her dogs and that several children lived in that residence. Research clearly states that a very strong dog owner is needed to properly care for these dogs. To quote the great Ceasar Millan, the dog whisperer, "Exercise, discipline and THEN affection. Kisses and hugs are for the owner, not the pet." I doubt there was a strong 'pack leader' in that residence. People forget all too often that pets are NOT humans. And in case you're wondering, yes I have a dog, and yes, I use Ceasar's formula and it works wonders! "

J.T.B. wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:36 PM:

" A question for the La Crosse Tribune (Local Rag)... If your "readers" don't support your Liberal Political views do you just delete their comments? Wasn't the Freedom of Speech one of our rights as an American? Oh, I forgot, you hate America. "

Annabanana wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:59 PM:

" I know the guys that were attacked and I know what happened. They were working in the alley on telephone cables and not NOT provoke the dog. The dog attacked one guy from behind...sneak attack...and bit his arm. Dog owners son got dog away from Dale but dog got out of control AGAIN and attacked Dale AGAIN.Then dog made third attack...on other guy.The dog owner may love her dog, but it is a danger to the public and SHE KNOWS IT! Viterbo employees up the street were chased down alley 2 weeks ago...unprovoked...after dog jumped fence. They told owner. She knows nature of her dog but did not do enough to protect the public. SO OUR PUBLIC OFFICIALS SHOULD BEFORE THIS WOMAN AND HER DOGS HURT OR KILL SOMEONE ELSE!!!! "

thirdeyeblind wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:42 PM:

" To Frank: I'd like to know what being from a 'poor' neighborhood has to do with anything. Pitbulls are all over and are owned by people from all walks of life. If the dog is mean, put it down and move on but don't berate the neighborhood. "

devon wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:39 PM:

" HEY FRANK. WHERE DID YOU GO TO SCHOOL? OR DID YOU? "

devon wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:37 PM:

" YOU KNOW I DON'T HAVE ANY PITBULLS, BUT I HAVE FRIENDS THAT DO. THEY ARE THE MOST LOVING DOGS I'VE SEEN. AS FAR AS ALOT OF YOU PEOPLE COMMENTING, I NEVER REALIZED THERE WERE SO MANY IGNORANT PEOPLE IN THE LACROSSE AREA. I DO MEAN IGNORANT. I MEAN COME ON. YOU'VE ALL OBVIOUSLY BEEN BRAINWASHED BY THE MEDIA, AND HAVE ABSOLUTLY ZERO KNOWLEDGE OF THE BREED. IF YOU DID YOU WOULDN'T SOUND SO DARN STUPID. BOY COULD I GO ON AND ON ABOUT THIS BUT I WON'T. IF YOU HAVE NEVER INTERACTED WITH A PITBULL AND MADE A NEGATIVE COMMENT ON HERE YOU TULY ARE THE IGNORANT ONE. THE SAD PART IS THAT UNTIL YOU HAVE YOU WILL REMAIN A FOOL. "

Frank wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:26 PM:

" Without a doubt the owner of the pet should be held responsible, could any charges be brought up against the landlord? Any precedence? "

Common Sense wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:20 PM:

" Although I've never owned a pit, I have had a lot of dogs in my life, and it is true that if they are raised with love and respect, they are loving, gentle creatures. I would think that would carry through almost all breeds. If I were going to try a pit, I would only consider a puppy, so I could try to develop its little psyche. The stories of pitbulls "snapping" are scary, though. It would be interesting to know how often that happens. Perhaps that is what happened here. If so, their mistake was in trusting the dog not to do that and not having it confined well enough. However, if that dog has ever threated anyone before, that is another story. "

Frank wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:20 PM:

" Well this isn't really surprising considering the neighborhood. It is one of the poorest, dirty neighborhoods in all of La Crosse. The crime in the area is abundant with car thefts happeining on a nightly basis. When you say there is an unresponsible dog owner in the area it shouldn't surprise anyone. Put the dog down, take away any others at the residence and possibly put them down also. Press criminal charges against the owner, should have learned from previous mishap. "

theblob wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:17 PM:

" Most responsible LANDLORDS do not allow these type ATTACK dogs as the liability/risks/insurance costs are too high. Wis stat 174.02 -dog owner penalities are doubled/tripled if past attacks, including landlord if aware of it. Wis stat 895.045 Criminal Negligence - owner can be charged for neglect. "

angel646 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:58 PM:

" I was only telling the folks who keep saying basically she was an abuser and didn't love her pets and that's why the dog attacked, I was only trying to clear the air. And say that it wasn't the case because she loves her dogs and is not an abuser whatsoever. And I have heard of attacks by dogs that were not pits. And I do know that nice dogs can and do sometimes snap out of nowhere so don't tell me that nice dogs never attack. I was attacked by my own dog, she was not a pit, owned for 4 years and attacked me out of nowhere and she never had shown aggression before. But none of us was there when the incident happened so none of us can say if the attack was provoked or not. So maybe you should open up your eyes "

theblob wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:55 PM:

" Hopefully the cops took pictures at the hospital of bites/wounds and tribune can post them, so all the defenders of KILLER breeds can see what the DEADLY difference is between a bite/attack of pit bull and any other dog. Get the KILLER breeds under control in city, before something worse happens. Alot pitbulls seem to be owned by welfare irresponsible owners without insurance, just for 'status'. Hopefully the landlord has insurance for hurt workers. "

truth wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:34 PM:

" If I was attacked by a pit bull, I would sue the owner for everything I could possibly get. I don't care if the owner was Mother Angelica. You buy a pit bull, you take every precaution, period. Should have had a huge fence, etc.

If the dog is able to escape its area and attack, that is neglect by the owner. "

conscience? wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:33 PM:

" Angel646-
I don't doubt for a second that this dog was loved, but dominant breeds like pit bulls need a lot more than just love. They need training, socialization, and a very strong leader. People should have to take classes and have a special license to own them. "

truth wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:31 PM:

" If the breed of dog has nothing to do with attacks on humans, why do we ALWAYS hear about pit bulls and rottweilers?

I know that training a dog has 99% to do with their behavior, but how come labs and boxers never attack? "

formykids wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:31 PM:

" It doesn't matter if she loves her pets. It doesn't matter if they are kind, loving people. The dogs ATTACK! Feel sorry for the owner, fine. But don't think that just because she loves and apparently raised them with love makes it ok!!!! The dogs attack unprovoked. Chained/fenced/what have you, they break from all of those "barricades". Clearly, they don't work with these dogs. They need to be removed. Open your eyes!! (and your mind) Clearly Angel, Big Boy is not a NICE dog. Nice dogs don't attack! If they are kind, loving people, they will no longer keep dogs of this nature! "

theblob wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:26 PM:

" Wow, 125 blog comments on this article in less than a day at 7:20pm, would be higher if article wasn't updated from other articles on same story. Call your council member, except Myturn neighbors, to get law passed for restrictions on these type KILLER dog breeds/owners who are irresponsible, as many city's have recently done to make neighborhoods safer. So if this dog owner is a renter, go after the landlord/owner of house and their insurance, that allow these vicious dogs/renter to live there. This is what lawyers/courts are for. "

angel646 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:21 PM:

" I know this family personally theyre good, kind, & caring people. Let me say she loves her dogs as if they were her kids, has never neglected her dogs & always showered them with affection. None of them were raised to be aggresive, I don't know where some of you folks get off assuming that I've been around Big Boy & I can tell you flat out he's not aggresive he's one of the sweetest dogs. All of her pets are raised with love & affection. How can some of you sit back & judge without knowing. All of her pets are up to date on vaccinations. For the record I also know plenty of people who recieve public aid & can take care of their pets properly so. As for your Q she does tie them out with a heavy duty lead and their in a fenced in yard. "

please wrote on Aug 19, 2008 6:49 PM:

" RE: sadsally
Owning a pet and being on public assistance have nothing to do with each other. There are plenty of people NOT on assistance who don't know they first thing about being a responsible pet owner. What people do with their money, government's or not, is their own business. Like it or not. "

Annabanana wrote on Aug 19, 2008 6:24 PM:

" The dog attacked from behind with no warning or provoking. Dogs from the same yard chased Viterbo guys after jumping over fence two weeks ago. They reported incident to dog owner. She knows nature of dogs. She says they were leashed in yard. Dog had no collar during attack.Telling the truth?Today there was a pit bull in same back yard and kids were playing outside in the area. What if the dog would have attacked a kid? Why would anyone own a dog like that? They should be punished BIG TIME and not allowed to have dogs for the safety of the public. "

hejesamom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 6:24 PM:

" RE: Wizard:

Wow..You are really really intelligent. I'm sure these two guys Loved being attacked. I'm sure they are totally celebrating their wounds. I'm sure my fellow co-worker Absolutely LOVED his time in surgery and the weeks, possibly months, of rehab he will need to have done on his hand. Not to mention, how they both will cringe everytime they go to a location and there is a Pit or probably any dog. Yeah..You are really smart. What are you a wizard of? Pinhead..I mean Pinball? OH YES..And there probably will be a charge on your next bill for Pitbull injuries..Look for it! "

tax-me-more wrote on Aug 19, 2008 6:09 PM:

" Now now Sally, remember they have rights and we must ALL PAY so as to not infringe on those rights. Just look at how many smut mags your taxes MUST pay for (so says the courts) so the prisoner's rights aren't violated.

We have to HELP these poor people; after all they are unable to help themselves. "

sad sally wrote on Aug 19, 2008 5:58 PM:

" I LOVE IT!!! Finally the Tribune actually prints something people are interested in!! Look at all the posts!! WOO HOO!!! If I might add my two cents, stating that someone on Federal and State Aid ie...food stamps, unemployement etc...has no business owning pets is not racial,and it is not picking on them, it is a fact. I have 5 pets myself, and I can tell you if cared for properly, you spend hundreds per year. These people need to get their priorties straigt. My taxes pay for your food, medical care etc...that is bad enough, I don't want to pay for your pleasure too. "

notme wrote on Aug 19, 2008 5:29 PM:

" Mr. IAmRight

This could just as easily been a crazed person (like in Winona) instead of a crazed dog.

I was talking about one's constitutional right to self-defense, a right that most Wisconsin Citizens don't want anybody to have. My point has always been that if you want to claim any "right" you must be willing to accept all rights. Something the hypocrites in society won't do. So now we'll make yet more demanding regulations because government doesn't want us to exercise our rights.

I have got no idea what the heck you are ranting about. Guess that means you are wrong. "

educated_citizen wrote on Aug 19, 2008 4:35 PM:

" bottom line the dog was not taken take of properly and was neglected, however it is a threat to people so it should be destroyed because once a dog does this it will most likley do it again. "

Leapfer wrote on Aug 19, 2008 4:25 PM:

" The fact of the matter is.... pit bulls, rottweillers, etc are singled out because their bite CAN KILL. Sure small dogs can be vicious, but they don't have locking jaws, and their bites can't rip off a limb. We have laws that say someone trained in martial arts is a lethal weapon... well - these dogs are no different. So, some of it is simply the breed!! It's not rocket science that they have killed more people than other breeds. How many people have been murdered by vicious poodles? They need a special license based on a home inspection for proper caging. And there should be more recourse against people who don't adequately restrain their dogs. Period. "

heyhey wrote on Aug 19, 2008 4:22 PM:

" um yeah everyone blams the breed of dog and that is crapy!!becouse i know from experience that they are a very loving and loyal companion when in the hands of someone who has the time to train and socialize them with other people and other pets!!!! now i have 2 6 month old pitbulls and i have spent a lot of time with them ! with lots of hard work and patience all they want to do is make you happy!! im UPSET TO HEAR OF THIS INCIDENT I CRYED AND NOT FOR THE OWNER BUT FOR THE FAIT OF THE ANIMAL AND FOR THE PEOPLE WHO WERE HURT! dogs ARE LIKE HAVING ANOTHER CHILD! BECOUSE THEY NEED ATTENCION AND AFECTION JUST AS A CHILD WOULD!! "

Lefty MaGuire wrote on Aug 19, 2008 4:19 PM:

" It is impossible to take the "wild" out of animals, dogs included, so the argument that a poodle bites, or attacks someone is ridiculous. It's quite simple...pitbulls are dangerous animals and the breed should be eliminated. Why is it when we read these stories, they're about rots or pitbulls? Somebody please find me the article that says, "Chihuaha Mauls Two Men". "

camarogirl4ever wrote on Aug 19, 2008 4:18 PM:

" "A second dog that lives at the same house attacked a man in April, police said." So this is the 2nd time this owner ahs had one of her dogs attack people? Why wasnt someting done about these dogs then? Maybe after the 2ND attack something will happen "

Bucketz wrote on Aug 19, 2008 4:00 PM:

" amom - No. "

Amom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:56 PM:

" Bucketz: I think the point was, if you don't have a comment on the actual article (as you obviously don't) then don't comment. If all you are trying to do is argue with and insult everyone else, do it somewhere else. Some people are actually trying to have intellectual conversation about very serious topics. And those of you getting way off the subject and just being rude are ruining it for the rest of us. "

IAmRight wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:56 PM:

" Hey notme - we get it, you like guns. You want to carry a gun because you're afraid of the world and can't defend yourself without firepower. We get all that. but maybe it's time you get over all the whippings you got on the playground and get on with your life. "

notme wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:50 PM:

" As my original post stated, I don't blame the breed, the dog, or the owner. I blame society in general. If these guys were allowed to properly defend themselves, this would be a non-issue.

You can have any dog you like, just as long as I can defend my self against an attack.

We have people here saying they "have a right" to own a dog, and yet these same people would be the first to call LEO the second they saw me walk into the mall armed (my right).

Can we see the hypocrisy now? "

OnaRes wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:44 PM:

" To all of you who say pit bulls were not bred to fight take a look at the following web page. I have included some quotes from that page:
"Pit Bull is a term commonly used to describe several breeds of dog in the Molosser family that were historically used for dog fighting"

"They were also bred to be intelligent and level-headed during fights"

And to put blame on the owner here is a quote from the web page.

"Lack of proper socialization and strong training can result in a dog with aggressive tendencies. Under the care of an overly-permissive or uneducated owner, Pit Bulls can become very dangerous dogs."

you can verify this at:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pit_bull "

reddie wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:42 PM:

" This woman should be punished to the full extent of the law, the dog should be euthanized, poor raising of ANY breed will cause it to attack.

Also, My family is on BadgerCare, I work a 40+ hour work week, my husband is a dairy farmer, in which he works over 90 hours a week, my employer does not offer health insurance and there is no way we would be able to afford taking out our own policy. We DO NOT use any other type of govenment support. Not everyone is out to abuse the system. Oh and did I mention we have 2 dogs???

Those in glass houses should not throw rocks. "

fedup1234 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:40 PM:

" Bottom line is how you raise them. Raise a kid to be a bully...he will be a bully. Raise a dog to be agressive, he will be agressive. "

totbom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:28 PM:

" The problem is that most pitbull owners are the type of people who don't take responsibility. Again, I said MOST. the majority of people who decide to get a dog don't have pitbulls on their list. Most pitbull owners get them for their reputation as tough fighting dogs. Why do so many NFL players own pitbulls? Machismo. Drive a Hummer, own a pitbull, look like a bad a$$. "

OnaRes wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:28 PM:

" The breed and the owner are to blame. Pit bulls have a natural instinct built into their genetic make up that make them naturally aggresive. The owner has a responsibility when owning a dog of this nature that they do every thing possible to ensure they do not encourage the aggressive behavior. Unfortunatly to many people buy dogs of these type for the wrong reason. Those dog owners are responsible for the negative image these animals have. "

mac wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:24 PM:

" Beagles and Golden Retrievers don't do that kind of damage. This dog had two men on the ground and tore out one's stomach... Of course all dogs bite, but the crux of the problem is that pit bulls and several other breeds are statistically proven to seriously maim and kill people much more often than other breeds. "

formykids wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:23 PM:

" Buketz,
I like the blogs. I have learned a lot from reading all of the posts and hearing peoples opinions. I think it can be a great place for people to express their thoughts. It reminds me of a college class without the tuition! I just feel that there are some who go way too far. Some posters say hurtful things about other posters that have nothing to do with the story. Thanks so much for your concern, though! :)- "

funmom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:19 PM:

" daddylonglegs, interesting article. I was surprised to find the breed of dog I own on their list as well, even if it was a very small amount. My only question about the article that I didn't find a clear answer to was - what are they meaning by "pit bull like"? I agree with you, it's the owner that needs to take responsibility. "

Bucketz wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:17 PM:

" to formykids - you can also go away if you don't like the blog. No one is making you read this. "

formerlaxtaxpayer wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:14 PM:

" If this were a beagle or golden retriever would you all say the same thing? or is it just because of the breed "

formykids wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:14 PM:

" AMEN, Seabiscuit! Wish I could have come up with those words myself.
Enough of the bashing! "

Bucketz wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:08 PM:

" to seabiscuit - if you don't like the blog, go away. "

daddylonglegs wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:08 PM:

" Interesting document on dog bite statistics.
http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/dogbreeds.pdf
I still blame the owner here. Some (many?) people shouldn't own dogs (children also!). "

seabiscuit wrote on Aug 19, 2008 3:03 PM:

" Those of you who continue to post namecalling, bad language, and hateful comments are putting your lack of education and critical thinking on display. Apparently you don't understand how you really appear to the rest of us. Free press/speech does not mean you can just say anything that bounces around in an empty mind. There are some of us who wish to carry on intelligent dialogue on certain issues... After viewing some of these postings I would welcome the Tribune to shut these blogs off for good. "

funmom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:50 PM:

" They can be with proper training and handling. It's owners that are not resposible with their dogs that I have to worry about eating my horse. "

Responsible_0wner wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:44 PM:

" Aw c'mon funmom, lighten up. Don't make me sic my pitbull on you and your horse. Oh that's right, pitbulls are gentle creatures. "

tribreader1 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:42 PM:

" Also, I don't blame people for wanting to avoid your dog. I would never get to close to or pet a pitbull, nor would I allow my children to do so. I don't want to be the next statistical victim who gets attacked by a "gentle and loving" pitbull. "

tribreader1 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:38 PM:

" to fedup1234:
With other breeds, the "its how they're raised" arguments may carry weight, but NOT with pitbulls. The majority of pitbull attacks are on friends of family of the owner, and the attack is the first sign of aggression the dog has ever displayed. Unfortunately, this first attack often results in tragedy. In case after case, attack after attack and death after death, previously "loving & friendly" pitbulls have simply snapped without any provocation & attacked. "

IAmRight wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:34 PM:

" Hey lesdent, why are you on aid? It's not the taxpayers fault that you're a single parent. Why should we have to pay for your messed up personal life? "

funmom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:28 PM:

" Fake responsible_0wner; by the way, I will get off of my high horse when you come crawling out from under the floor boards. "

funmom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:27 PM:

" fake Responsible_0wner; I never said you or anyone else should/could not post comments. What I am saying is that it is ridiculous for you to post with the same name as someone who actually does care and is respectful and make him/her look like they are bi-polar because of your idiotic comments. And don't give me the names are different garbage, how many people do you really think have noticed that you use a 0 (zero) and he/she actually uses the O. "

tax-me-more wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:24 PM:

" random annoying bozo
wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:29 PM:

" shoot the dog in the head, and throw the carcass in the landfill. keep the existing citation, and also prosecute for 'assault with intent to do bodily harm' agaisnt the owner, plus prohibit this person from ever owning any kind of animal, ever. and for the two victims, sue the begeebies out of the owner. "

Sue the owner? Why? You can't get blood out of a turnip. "

notme wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:20 PM:

" favreless
wrote on Aug 19, 2008 12:50 PM:

Glad you live in a state that has a carry law. Maybe some day, LEO here in Wisconsin will stop their illegal arrests of citizens for exercising the right to carry in a legal manor. "

notme wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:14 PM:

" AnnMal89
wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:13 AM:

" Quick fact:

Golden Retrievers are actually the dog responsible for the most attacks against people; however, the majority of these attacks are not reported or heard of. "

Please cite your source the aforementioned fact??? "

lesdent wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:14 PM:

" i bet "happymom" is a lazy stay at home mom that dont work and lets her husband do all the supporting....i am on aid, have pets and still make it. I am a single parent of a 5 yr old.....so let us judge you before you judge others...miss priss "

antieverything wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:12 PM:

" Not me... are you serious? Benefactors of he se programs my pay taxes out of thier paychecks... but I assure you they get thier money back upon filing. "

notme wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:11 PM:

" SBR
wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:01 AM:

" It would be totally awesome if that officer in the picture shot the dog dead right there. If I were one of those CenturyTel workers, I would certainly want to kill the thing! "

Excellent point, but as my first post pointed out, society does NOT want you to exercise your constitutional right to self-defense. "

notme wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:02 PM:

" please
wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:22 AM:

" re: Happymom
Given these economic times, I guess that means that no one can own a pet. Badgercare recipients and people who receive public assistance also pay taxes and have rights. You don't get to make those decisions. Just take care of yourself. "

I couldn't agree more, I have rights. The problem is, these people who have rights will be the first ones calling the police if I choose to exercise my right to carry.

Can't have it both ways now can we. "

wizard wrote on Aug 19, 2008 2:01 PM:

" Good one Melonhead,Those poor Century tel Workers. I bet you they didnt go back to work the next day either,there goes your phone bill.
these guys are in 7th heaven,workers comp claim,disability insurance in addition plus every shyster lawyer in town banging on their door to set up a lawsuit. If they were self employed like a farmer getting attacked by a bull they would have to be back to work the next day or starve. "

tax-me-more wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:57 PM:

" happymom
wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:07 AM:

" I have a suggestion. If you receive public aid in any form, ie: BadgerCare, food stamps, or whatever they call them now, etc., you cannot be issued a license to own any animal - dog, cat, lizard, snake or buzzard. If you can't supply for your own human obligations, you can't have pets. That would solve lots of issues in these neighborhoods. "

Best Idea I've read yet. "

Melon head wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:53 PM:

" If Pitbulls are outlawed, only outlaws will have Pitbulls. "

portectivemom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:35 PM:

" I live in this neighborhood and I have nothing personally against pitbulls because they can be great pets but this is an outrage. I have to be afraid to let my children play outside alone for fear that something like this could happen to my children who are a lot smaller than the 2 grown men that could not fend of the dog. They need to take all the dogs from this residence because they have no regard for human life other than there own I mean look at the picture she is so distraught about the dog what about those to men that he attacked? This situation is very bad as it is but it could have been a lot worse I really hope that the public officals and the judges and the humane society get proactive about this situation real quick before it ends in a fatality. "

fedup1234 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:33 PM:

" I am so tired of pitbulls having the bad rep. I own a pitbull mix and when I tell people what she is, they tend to shy away just because of what I say. She is the most loving and caring dog that I know and everyone that she is around tells me the same thing. They all want to take her home and thinks she's the most well behaved dog. It is very frustrating when a few bad apples fall from the tree that the whole breed gets blamed. I know a few people who have had mean dogs that I wouldn't allow children to go next to and they were the "common breed" dogs. It's how you raise them, end of story. "

Responsible_0wner wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:32 PM:

" to funmom - Who put you in charge of who can and cannot post? Who do you think you are? And how do you know I'm not posting under another name? How do you know who's using what name? In case you're not smart enough to figure it out, we can create as many names as we want. Oh, and are you afraid to use your name on this board? funmom doesn't really tell us anything except that you think you're fun, which is highly unlikely. So get off your high horse and stop telling others what to do. "

random annoying bozo wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:29 PM:

" shoot the dog in the head, and throw the carcass in the landfill. keep the existing citation, and also prosecute for 'assault with intent to do bodily harm' agaisnt the owner, plus prohibit this person from ever owning any kind of animal, ever. and for the two victims, sue the begeebies out of the owner. "

PicklesPlease wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:22 PM:

" Steven T. Eide
2520 Losey Ct
608-782-1860

Actually I know from experience that this a slumlord. He is not an attentive landlord nor does he show care and respect for tenants. "

funmom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:17 PM:

" To the fake Responsible_0wner; knock it off, you are not funny. Why did you need to steal someone else's screen name? Are you afraid of having your own name, and putting your real opinions next to it? Quit being such a childish jerk.
To the "real" Responsible_Owner; I would report this to the trib and see if they can do anything about this or request a new screen name. "

notme wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:15 PM:

" Mallard08
wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:25 AM:

Yes, one issue is the incompetent owner. We have all kinds of incompetent owners, just like incompetent parents. "There is NO CURE for stupid." Therefore, you are the one who "must pull their head out..." and realize that there is no test, license, or whatever that will prevent 100% of these types of crimes. That is why we have an inalienable right to self-defense. Just because you choose not to exercise your right, doesn't mean you can/should my right, or anyone else's. "

conscience? wrote on Aug 19, 2008 1:12 PM:

" Mac- That is a good link, but he contradicts himself on the Rottweiler a little. He wrote what you quoted and also..."Rottweilers by contrast show a fairly normal child/adult attack ratio. They seem to show up disproportionately often in the mauling, killing, and maiming statistics simply because they are both quite popular and very powerful, capable of doing a great deal of damage in cases where bites by other breeds might be relatively harmless."
This statement sounds to me like he doesn't see the breed as an issue, but their size and prevalence. "

favreless wrote on Aug 19, 2008 12:50 PM:

" This breed of dog should be totally wiped out from the face of the earth. I don't care how much "training" you do with this breed YOU CAN NEVER TRUST OR HANDLE THEM WITHOUT WONDERING!! Do you think for one minute that anyone could have jumped in and kept this dog from doing that,it would of tore their a** up also. I also think to many people watch to much t.v. and think this is some bullsh*t image that makes them look tough. We will see how cool they think it is when these people sue the crap out of them. I live in a city where these are now illegal to own because of the on going problems with them and believe me nobody misses them. I have a concelled carry permit believe me this dog would have taken his last bite if I was either of those people. "

Responsible_0wner wrote on Aug 19, 2008 12:43 PM:

" Stop blaming the breed. I have a pitbull and I haven't had any trouble with him. The only time I'm scared is when he's hungry or if I startle him. Or sometimes when he's just not in a good mood. Or when he gives me that look that says I better get off his couch. Then I usually lock myself in my room. "

SBR wrote on Aug 19, 2008 12:36 PM:

" Great link! I checked it out. "Pit bull terrier" is off the charts compared to the rest of the dogs. The numbers are way, way, way higher than any other breed. That definitely makes me believe that regardless of "blaming the breed", the fact stands that these dogs attack and kill the most. "

mac wrote on Aug 19, 2008 12:02 PM:

" rfield, that a good link: http://www.dogbitelaw.com/Dog%20Attacks%201982%20to%202006%20Clifton.pdf I quote from the Clifton paper: It is sheer foolishness to encourage people to regard pit bull terriers and Rottweilers as just dogs like any other, no
matter how much they may behave like other dogs under ordinary circumstances... If almost any other dog has a bad moment,someone may get bitten, but will not be maimed for life or killed, and the actuarial risk is accordingly reasonable. If a pit bull terrier or a Rottweiler has a bad moment, often someone is maimed or killed--and that has now created off-the-chart actuarial risk, for which the dogs as well as their victims are paying the price. "

unbelievable wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:57 AM:

" I own a dog myself. However, before we bought him we researched into what he would need, etc. Although he is a small dog, he can jump and climb a chain link fence if he wanted to. He is also quite the hunting dog and can dig like crazy. Here is how we took precautions. We have a 6.5' WOOD fence that he cannot climb AND we put concrete along our fence to make sure he couldn't dig under it and we installed an invisible fence. He would lick someone to death before he would bite them. But precautions were taken because you just NEVER know. "

berkshirebull wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:49 AM:

" According to La Crosse County Land Records, the owner of the property is:
Steven T. Eide
2520 Losey Ct
608-782-1860

Perhaps someone should interview him and see what his opinion on the situation is. "

unbelievable wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:43 AM:

" Correction....dogs that are too LARGE to keep in town. "

unbelievable wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:42 AM:

" I do not place the blame on the breed or animal, but soley on the fact that the owners make horrible choices on what type of animal, how to care for the animal and how to take steps to insure that these kinds of things do not occur. In this instance, why didn't the home owner take further precautions and make darn sure this animal was not able to get loose again? You think that after several times of getting loose you would do something that works, not just hook them up to the same leash again. "

unbelievable wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:42 AM:

" To Responsible_Owner, I was not only refereing to pits, but other breeds as well (ie. dogs that NEED the space to run and that are just too small to keep locked or chained up in a backyard. That is cruelty in itself!) We have called animal control several times, but what were to happen, like in this occurance, when the attack has already taken place prior to them getting there? "

toconsider wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:40 AM:

" I do have to say that I'm curious as to who actually owns the property this woman lives at? If she is not the owner, where does the landlord stand in this situation? I pay extra for homeowner's insurance because of the type of dog that I own. And it seems many neighbors have concerns, call the authorities! There are rules in place that just need to be enforced. Let's be proactive, not reactive! The owner has responsiblilty, but so do the people that are aware of an unsafe situation! Children only know what they are taught. "

toconsider wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:39 AM:

" Most of you have valid points. I am a pitbull owner, she is 6 years old. There are some characteristics of the dog that as a "responsible" owner you need to stay conscious of. One is the strength of the dog! I would like to point out that if you do your research, pit bulls jaws do not "lock" nor are they responsible for 1/3 of dog bites. However, they are a strong dog & can do some major damage. That's why a "responsible" owner makes sure the dog is secure at all times. These things happen so fast. My dog is the most loving & loyal dog, but I never underestimate her insticts. She's an animal! "

arsenicandashes wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:37 AM:

" As with any breed, as an owner you have to FULLY understand the breed, and as with any dog, each animal has its own personality and set of circumstances.

There is noting inherently wrong with any of the Bad Dog breeds (i.e., Pitts, Rotts, and Chows). The problem is that there is a lack of education around the breeds. These types of dogs require a consistent and firm training. You can love and care for your pet and still be in control. People forget that dogs are pets, not people, and they answer to a deeper calling. They have instincts, and when these instincts are not understood they/we get in trouble. "

rfield wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:31 AM:

" AnaMal89... could you give me a source of that fact? I haven't ever seen Golden Retriever on the list of aggressive dogs. Here's a link to a list of reported dog attacks on people separated out by breed.
http://www.dogbitelaw.com/Dog%20Attacks%201982%20to%202006%20Clifton.pdf "

conscience? wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:13 AM:

" I have to agree with happymom to a certain extent. First of all I don't consider help with health insurance to be a problem. Who can afford it these days. But if you need help to put food on the table and a roof over your head get a gold fish.
I have a 90lb lab cross and it costs at least $30 a month to feed him. Shots, heartworm preventative, and everything else gets really expensive. Feeding a dog with an aggression issue crappy dog food only makes the problem worse. Dogs weren't designed to eat corn. "

AnnMal89 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:13 AM:

" Quick fact:

Golden Retrievers are actually the dog responsible for the most attacks against people; however, the majority of these attacks are not reported or heard of. "

tribreader1 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:10 AM:

" A close relative had a pitbull that she raised from a puppy. For years, she was a loving pet. One day, the dog just snapped and attacked her. She managed to get into the bathroom, but every time she opened the door the dog would charge. She ended up climbing out the bath window. It is true that any breed CAN be aggressive if they are abused, trained that way, etc. I also dont believe that every pitbull is inherently vicious and dangerous, but I do think that as a breed, they have a much higher tendency for this type of behavior than other dogs. Due to my personal experiences with them, I would never own one for a pet, nor would I want my children to live in a neighborhood where they routinely break free and roam around. "

SBR wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:01 AM:

" It would be totally awesome if that officer in the picture shot the dog dead right there. If I were one of those CenturyTel workers, I would certainly want to kill the thing! "

neo32679 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 11:00 AM:

" I am going to have to aggree with Happy Mom, (partially). I do think people who are on welfare/ government assistance and not really working (attempting a income to support their family) should not be allowed to have pets. "

nana3 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:58 AM:

" In many states pitbulls and rottweillers are illegal to own. I had a wonderful rotty for many years she was the most mild mannered dog I ever knew. I had a lahsa apso female, she was a great dog until one time when she was about 8 years old, she bit a small child. I had her put down, in my book human beings come first. I loved her but felt I had to do it.
If there are 2 pitbulls in that house and both have biten, there might come a day when this woman or her children will be attacked by them. How would she feel if she faced homicide charges for the death of her child? "

funmom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:56 AM:

" Happymom; your argument does not stand, it is biased and misdirected. "

Responsible_Owner wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:53 AM:

" To unbelievable: I do not think the city should restrict any kind of breed from within the city limits. If they did they should ban all breeds! As far as the one in your neighborhood, Call the police and animal control, there is a hefty fine for a dog running loose which only increases with each offense.

To everyone: The breed is a wonderful breed and I would gladly own another!!! As everyone has been saying it is how the dog is raised and how much love and affection they get.

Neglect a kid and they turn out the same way... "

SBR wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:53 AM:

" Time and time again, when a dog attacks, it is a pit bull. I'm sorry, but I think there should be no further breeding on this type of dog.

I will not let my 1 year old son near any strange dog, particularly pit bulls. I read someplace that dogs see babies as other animals, not humans. This is why they attack them.

If anyone dare give me crap for being cautious, I really don't care. I would rather be cautious than sorry. "

funmom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:52 AM:

" Seabiscuit's comment is perfect. Just because someone has the money to take care of a pet properly, doesn't mean they will. It is all in the owner's sense of reponsability and care. "

nana3 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:49 AM:

" RE:happymom, for someone that is a stay at home mom, you are very critical of other people. If you don't have a job, then no one is using your tax dollars. You are one of the lucky women that found a man with very good income or wealth. I would hold in some of the biased opinions you have until you have walked a mile in someone elses shoes. "

seabiscuit wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:43 AM:

" Does anyone feel that Michael Vick should be allowed to own dogs because he made millions of dollars as a professional football player? Of course not-- AGAIN, we are talking RESPONSIBILITY here, not how much money people do or do not make. "

happymom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:41 AM:

" For those who are challenged in reading comprehension I would like to spell out that I never said the woman in the article was an aid recipient. My comments are about the story in general, and about pet owners in general. I'm sure the woman in the article is the CEO of a large corporation. Now, my argument still stands, in sweeter terms, "economically disadvantaged persons" should not be issued dog licenses, much less multiple dog licenses. "

rfield wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:38 AM:

" Sorry Tanktastic, I wasn't trying to say that you were a bad owner... I was trying to say that if the dog in this situation was taunted and that's why it attacked, then it is still the owner's fault for leaving it in that situation. No matter what the owner is responsible for their pets - end of story. "

packer backer wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:33 AM:

" picklesplease, I could not have said it better myself. Those of you jumping on happymom, I can't talk for her but, what I got from her statements that it is not Badger Care or that type of assistance she is talking about, but standing at the grocery and just having enough money to buy hot dogs for the kids or dog food for Fluffy. "

funmom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:20 AM:

" Seabiscuit;Right On!! To happymom: You know abosolutly nothing about this family or their financial status, nor is it any of your business. The article does say that the dog was current on vaccinations and was licensed, so apparently the dog was not completly neglected. Anything else is speculation. So quite passing judgements on situations you obviously know nothing about. And remember this while you are sitting on your high horse, those who live in glass house's shouldn't throw stones. "

unbelievable wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:20 AM:

" The same problem is occuring at several locations on the Northside as well. I had to pull my children in the house because of a pit running loose last week. The scary part was it's leash was a 1.5 inch linked chain that it was still carrying with it! This is not the first time this pit has tried to approach some one with the neck hair standing on end. Maybe the city should look into making some restrictions on the type of breeds you can have within the city limits. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:18 AM:

" please- I have to agree with you in your response to happymom, and disagree with you in that a third of dog bites in the US are from pitbulls. If anyone digs just a bit deeper than the numbers most dog bites from smaller breeds are never reported thus never making the census, further reading on the subject will also reveal that those reported to be pitbull bites came from pitbull like dogs. This could mean pitbull, American Staffordshier Terrier, Boxer, American Bulldog, or any dog that slightly resembles the bully breed. "

brokenlady wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:13 AM:

" I would like to respond to the person who said that if you receive any type of govt. assistance you shouldn't be allowed to have a pet. First, I am a single mom, working a full-time job, but also have BadgerCare. I don't own a pet, but the issue is, I can afford to take care of my kids, but cannot afford the insurance premiums or what is not covered by insurance. Don't judge all people based on a few that work the system so they don't have to pay their way in society. I, however agree, that if this residence can't take care of their kids, and is on assistnace, they don't need dogs!!!!!! "

Garvi wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:11 AM:

" This to all the people talking about other breeds biting, There is a big differance between a lab bite and a pit bull bite, the lab will bite and release and the pit bill will bite than lock it's very powerfull jaw and rip and tear, the only comparison is it's called a bite. One other thing is, most other breeds will warn you with a growl or showing it teeth to let you know they are about to strike but with a pit they just come up and grab ahold, it is part of their defense to sneek attack. Bad breed, just google pit bulls and see how many countries and states have law restrictions on this breed of dog. "

PicklesPlease wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:11 AM:

" It is the breed--but the bleeding hearts will deny it until one of their own children gets its face eaten. If you don't believe me, get a pet tiger and raise it with love and affection. Then see how many years it lives before deciding you look like dinner.

You can take the beast out of the hood but you can't take the hood out of the beast "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:05 AM:

" rfield- as to any concern about myself or my roommate at the time, we did not just leave the dog out there to be taunted. I would bring the dog into the house and let the children know what they were doing was wrong and what their actions may result in. Never once did I see their parents out there with them. I am not trying to shift the blame or responsibility off the owner of this dog. I am simply stating other factors may and probably did contribute to this vicious attack. "

happymom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:03 AM:

" Responsible pet ownership and being responsible for one's personal life go hand in hand, Seabiscuit, thus the parallel in my comments. People who can't/don't/won't be good stewards of their lives are not in a position to be great pet owners. As an advocate for pets, Seabicuit, you should be in agreement with me. "

12.5% wrote on Aug 19, 2008 10:01 AM:

" I grew up in the same neighborhood with Ms. Bolling and her family. I completely agree with nanigrrl7. Some things never change. It appears her pets are just as mean/nasty as she was when we were growing up. Unfortunately, I think her pets have been trained to be mean. "

nanigrrl7 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:57 AM:

" Happymom- Give me a break. Some people will look for any excuse to down people who receive assistance, but a dog bite article starting that sort of criticism is a new low. Where does it even state that the owner receives any sort of assistance? My family has Badgercare because my employer does not offer insurance and I have a dog and a cat who are well cared for, up to date on shots and licensed and both spayed. I also happen to work 40+ hours per week paying taxes just like those who do not have Badgercare. The poor economy has affected many, but apparently those who have been affected should suffer even more? "

SarahAnn wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:53 AM:

" I wish everyone would stop saying that pit bulls are naturally like this. They are one of the most loving breeds out there. When a dog attacks it is because of the owner or they have a mental problem most likely due to over breeding. It is awful that these men got hurt and if the dog is a menace is should be put down but people need to stop blaming this breed. "

seabiscuit wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:52 AM:

" happymom-- your postings do not pertain to this original article, so please stop with the prejudicial comments now. This is about responsible pet ownership; you are taking this to a whole different-- and inappropriate-- level. "

FDLgoaliegirl wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:47 AM:

" I agree with happy mom. I don't understand why people who can't afford their kids tend to have mulit-animals as well. I mean if you can't feed/ or take care your kid or yourself, why would you further your bad situation? How can people in the neighborhood feel safe if you can't put up a decent fence to keep the animal in? "

rfield wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:41 AM:

" Yes people this is entirely the owners fault. Pitbulls are great dogs, but they are prone to these kind of attacks. Dogs like this need more attention to see what triggers them to attack. Something had to happen, to make the dog attack, who knows what it was... It SOUNDS like lack of training and attention.

In Tanktastic's example of the dog in a run being taunted by kids it would be easy to place the blame elsewhere, but that still is the owner's fault. They left the dog in a situation where they knew about the dog being taunted and did nothing to fix it. "

happymom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:40 AM:

" May I point out that owning a pet is not a right. Why is it radical to suggest that for the period of time that one relies on government aid to feed their children, they should not also be using such scarce funds to feed an animal? I guess I am way out of line, as usual, to frown upon people using having cell phones and getting fake nails and tatoos while they are eating up my tax money for their basic life necessities. "

Im Still Jackson wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:39 AM:

" I had a pit raised it from a pup with good demeanor ect then one day about the age of 2 it just snapped and went on a killing spree that started in the barn with several pigs and ended with a shotgun blast. Wouldnt have another one, ive seen what they can do and its not worth the gamble and its a documented fact they have a higher rate than most dogs for turning on their owners. IT IS THE BREED! Ive raised many dogs and I will reiterate "THE ONLY GOOD PIT BULL IS A DEAD ONE"! I saw that dog get the taste for blood and go crazy for it after licking its wounded leg from a previous fight with my elkhound .They were raised as pups togeather! "

funmom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:28 AM:

" happymom; you are way out of line. You have nothing from this article to base those judgements on. Pets provide a variety of benefits to their owners, especially when cared for appropriatly. Furthermore, just because someone may be having a time in their life where funds aren't what they could be, or need assistance for health insurance because an employer either doesn't provide it, covers very little, or the premiums are so high that it doesn't leave you much left on payday, are not reasons for you to impose your judgements. Oh, and just incase your curious, I do not recieve any "assistance" to help raise my children. "

please wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:22 AM:

" re: Happymom
Given these economic times, I guess that means that no one can own a pet. Badgercare recipients and people who receive public assistance also pay taxes and have rights. You don't get to make those decisions. Just take care of yourself. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:21 AM:

" please- do you really believe that if a lab or a golden retriever were to bite someone, it would be all the owners fault. Where when a bully breed bites someone it's all the dogs fault? "

seabiscuit wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:17 AM:

" Responsible Owner and Tanktastic-- I do agree that there are good dogs within the breed. I have known some very sweet Dobermans and Rottweilers, along with some vicious Collies and Cocker Spaniels. It's the treatment they recieve from the owners. PLEASE be responsible if you own a pet! I can't say that enough. Happymom, you kind of scare me with those comments... "

please wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:08 AM:

" This entire situation is sad for everyone concerned. I think the biggest mistake that potential dog owners make is choosing a dog based on looks, not temperament. Some dogs are meant to be lap dogs; some are great with children; the genetic traits of pit bull terriers is to PROTECT by any means necessary, whether that means another person or it's own territory and it will do so by any means necessary. I think any dog that you have to make excuses for (Oh, if you raise them right, they're really gentle!) is not a good choice for a pet. These dogs are responsible for over a third of all dog bites in the US. When these dogs bite, they aren't messing around. "

happymom wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:07 AM:

" I have a suggestion. If you receive public aid in any form, ie: BadgerCare, food stamps, or whatever they call them now, etc., you cannot be issued a license to own any animal - dog, cat, lizard, snake or buzzard. If you can't supply for your own human obligations, you can't have pets. That would solve lots of issues in these neighborhoods. "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:03 AM:

" Seabiscuit- Pitbulls were and still are bred to be fighters. But they were and still are bred (by responsible breeders) to be loyal people loving, family dogs. "

Responsible_Owner wrote on Aug 19, 2008 9:02 AM:

" Seabiscuit: The breed was not intended to be bred as fighters. Society has some owners breeding them that way. You can find docile pit bull litters all over. They are bred by the owners PEOPLE to be like that. Irresponsible owners!

How can kids be caretakers of anything? They can't even take care of themselves yet alone a dog?!

Ms Bolling needs to remove all PETS from that home as there is NO CONTROL in the home what so ever. She should also be fined the maximum there is.

I have been bitten more by chihuahuas and poodles than any large breed dogs! Not the breed!!! "

Tanktastic wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:56 AM:

" I lived in that area a few years back. My roommate at the time had a dog that we would keep in an outdoor kennel run for a few hours a day, that was next to our garage in the alley. On numerous occasions my roommate and I had caught the neighborhood children taunting the dog, throwing sticks and rocks at and into the dogs kennel. I am not saying that the owner is not at fault here, she clearly is. (the fence wasn't high enough, the dogs were not properly socialized, the dogs lacked proper training and supervision, whatever the case may be) I am saying other factors may be present that should be evaluated before we haul out our torches and pitch forks and point the finger of blame at one person. "

seabiscuit wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:45 AM:

" What-- there was another incident back in April from this same residence-- by a different dog?! These people should no longer be allowed to have dogs in their "care." This could have been a VERY bad situation... I hate to blame the breed, but Pitbulls ARE bred to be fighters. What is the motivation behind owning a certain breed, anyway? Ms. Bolling is an irresponsible dog owner, and she does NOT care for this animal. As a dog lover/owner, I believe there is no excuse for this. Thanks to her two innocent people were vicously attacked, the neighbors live in fear, and now her "beloved" pet may be euthanized. Nice. "

formykids wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:40 AM:

" There are SEVERAL kids living at that residence. My guess is Ms. Bolling isn't that main caretaker of those dogs. Her kids are the "caretakers".
There is NO reason those dogs need to be there when there are so many children in and out of that house. Ms. Bolling needs to swallow her pride and remove the dogs from her home. Just a matter of time before a CHILD gets hurt. Adult men are a stronger and can fend of the attack easier than a child. If you can't be a responsible dog owner, be a responsible MOTHER! Please grow up! "

Just Some Dude wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:24 AM:

" That is just shocking that another landshark bit someone. "

centralkid wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:24 AM:

" i know the people who live there. their dogs get out alot. but they care about them. "

ellie1948 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:16 AM:

" RE FATBASTARD AND RESPONABLE you both are right on the money they are great dogs the ownwers are at fault and why they delete your comments are cause they do not want to hear the truth... "

Responsible_Owner wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:07 AM:

" I will take what fatbastard said and go a little further.

The owner(s) of this and other ANIMALS in the area need to be responsible for what their pets do. The breed as a whole is a great loyal breed.

I say animals because we have irresponsible cat owners in my neighborhood!!! Let their cats out to roam then call for them all night long?!

But this is a case of irresponsible owner and the owner should go to jail as they have another dog that was involved in a bite incident in April! What was the city thinking allowing them to keep any animals?! One bite from any animal should bar you from ownership if you want them move to the country and put up an eight foot fence! "

fatbastard wrote on Aug 19, 2008 8:02 AM:

" I'm going to type this again. The owner(s) of this and other pitbulls in the area need to be responsible for what their pets do. The breed as a whole is a great loyal breed. It's the 90% of the people that own them who cannot even take care of themselves much less a dog that in the wrong hands could be very dangerous! This is truly sad for the animal. Maybe they should let some other dog chew on the owner for while! This neighborhood is full of irresponsable pet owners, to the point that most of them just live off wellfair and our taxes, sit out in front of their houses and heckel the rest of the people who walk by. "

Darwin wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:51 AM:

" I used to live in that neighborhood... nanigrrl7's response is accurate.
Irresponsible dog owners should not be allowed to have them at all. ANY dog can bite - I've seen some pretty vicious poodles and cocker spaniels. "

wizard wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:47 AM:

" Ryeguy your a real rocket scientist. Have you been eating moldy rye again? Go to a search engine and look up ergot or ergotism poisoning.Maybe life is pretty good in your Momma's neighborhood? "

nanigrrl7 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:43 AM:

" As a resident of this neighborhood I can safely state that this was only a matter of time. There are MULTIPLE pit bulls at this residence who are left outside all day long. The entire neighborhood was in an uproar when the dog was initially left in the home. These animals get out of the yard on a regular basis and the neighborhood is filled with children. If this dog took two grown men to the ground what would it have done to one of the many children in the neighborhood? This family has shown blatant disregard for the neighborhood through both their dog and children's behavior and I am hoping that this opens some eyes to what is really occurring at this residence. Our neighborhood is not safe with these animals in this woman's care. "

wizard wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:37 AM:

" Poor dog,pretty sad this is high crime area of LaCrosse, but the owner should be a reponsible owner. Olson looks like he is having fun,Ever try to put a job application or enter Century tel's building by the river? Something more worse than a pit bull will attack you. "

Mallard08 wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:25 AM:

" Notme should pull their head out.............the real ISSUE is the fact that the lady was incompitent and lazy and didn't train her dog right. I would sue the crap out of her and she should get fined big time. The dog should put down no questions asked. "

daddylonglegs wrote on Aug 19, 2008 7:00 AM:

" Bear pepper spray would have done the trick. I think Gander carries it. "

ryeguy wrote on Aug 19, 2008 6:59 AM:

" So Big Boy took a couple of chunks out and a second dog at that addess attacked a man last April...Ms. Bolling seems to have trouble controlling her big dogs. I think Ms. Bolling needs advice on how to choose, how to train, and how to house dogs. "

ryeguy wrote on Aug 19, 2008 6:54 AM:

" I think a roof mounted M50 machine gun would do the trick. Other advantages: it would make tree trimming more fun, and it might drown out the sound of leaf blowers when they used it.

I am afraid that dog is doomed. I wonder how the owners will take it? Probably they will go out and get another one. "

Vindicator wrote on Aug 19, 2008 6:50 AM:

" Take a look at the photo. Looks like a small childs bike. Just a matter of time before there is a fatality. This was the second attack from this location. The city has a duty to revoke and deny any dog license from this property owner, now. "

IAmRight wrote on Aug 19, 2008 6:49 AM:

" I agree. All CenturyTel field personnel should be issued assault rifles and body armor. "

notme wrote on Aug 19, 2008 12:44 AM:

" This entire situation was 100% avoidable. CenturyTel should allow their employees to go armed. When the dog attacked, and especially at the point where the owner could not control the dog, the CenturyTel employees should have been allowed to tack action and defend themselves.


Its not the breed, its not the owner, its not the training, or even the dog. The issue here, is WHY were these individuals unable to defend themselves? Why does the public continue to DEMAND citizens be left indefensible? Why does the public continue to accept our rights being violated? Why must we literally be sheep among the wolves?

Until societys attitude towards our inalienable right to self-defense changes, these types of crimes against the people will continue. "


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