On Monday evening, a pet Siberian Husky was fatally shot by an off-duty federal officer at a fenced-in dog park in Severn, MD (a town outside of Baltimore).
I found out about the tragic story this morning from a forum post on this site by member CatsRme. When I read the article in the Baltimore Sun, I could hardly believe my eyes. How could something like this happen?
Here's the gist of it: Three-year-old Husky Bear-Bear was playing at the off-leash park with the owner's brother when the officer and his wife arrived with their German Shepherd, named Asia. Bear-Bear ran over and jumped on Asia, who remained on the leash. Here's what happened next according to the Anne Arundel Police Department press release:
"The off-duty federal officer advised that he yelled for the male subject with Bear to come get his dog. According to the officer, Bear began to bite his dog. The off-duty federal officer stated he attempted to get Husky off his dog, but the Husky turned and attempted to bite him before biting his dog a second time. The off-duty officer stated that he feared for the safety of himself, his wife and their dog and subsequently shot the Huskie [sic] with a handgun he had in his possession."
It doesn't sit well with me. Of course the dog's guardian should have gotten Bear away from Asia, but I wonder how much time he actually had before it was too late. Did the dog really need to be shot? Was it appropriate to fire a gun in public, putting innocent people, children, and other dogs in the neighborhood at risk? The officer acted out of fear and with the intention of protecting his own, which I understand to a point. But I say he took it too far, and his actions were impulsive and irresponsible. Most dog owners know that if you try to get in the middle of dogs when they are playing rough or fighting, you are going to get bitten. Plus, when you enter an off-leash dog park, you know there is a possibility that the dogs will not all get along. Bear-Bear's owners say that their dog has never had a problem with aggression, and the owner's brother felt that the dogs were just playing roughly. As it turns out, Bear-Bear was the only one injured during this incident, and only from the gunshot wound. There have been no reported injuries in the other dog nor in the humans involved. Needless to say, those who knew and loved Bear-Bear are heartbroken and dismayed.
To be fair, there are often multiple sides to every story. Unfortunately, it sounds like there were no outside witnesses in this case. Additionally, news reports indicate that very little has been heard from the officer outside of the statements in the above press release. Police have not released the name of the off-duty officer, but WJLA-TV has revealed him as Keith Shephard.
Local citizens and dog lovers all over the country are outraged. A Facebook group entitled "Justice for Bear-Bear" has been started to offer support to owners Rachel and Ryan Rettaliata, and it currently has nearly 3,000 members. Soon after the shooting occurred, the case was said to be closed and the officer was cleared of any wrongdoing. Yesterday, Anne Arundel Police Chief Colonel James Teare, Sr said, "this investigation is not complete. The police department takes this incident very seriously and will continue to investigate all aspects of the case." I certain hope so. An article posted today from HometownAnnapolis.com states that "new information has prompted county police to reopen the investigation."
My deepest condolences go out to Bear-Bear's loved ones, and I hope justice is served. I plan to follow this case closely and will keep you informed as it progresses.
8/10/10 UPDATE:
The Baltimore Sun is reporting that two prosecutors have now been assigned to this case. Kimberly DiPietro, one of the prosecutors, told the Sun that they are trying to determine if the shooter was legally allowed to carry a weapon, and whether or not he violated the law by shooting Bear-Bear. There is no word yet on when this case will go to court. The federal officer who shot Bear-Bear was placed on administrative leave a few days after the incident.
8/18/10 UPDATE:
Misdemeanor charges have been filed against Keith Shepherd. According to The Baltimore Sun, the charges are "animal cruelty and discharging a firearm within 100 yards of an occupied home."
The public outrage continues, and the Facebook group "Justice for Bear-Bear" approaches 12,000 members. On the flip side, many people support the officer and feel his actions were justified. As you can see from the comments on this post, people feel strongly about this case. What's your opinion?
Comments
This just sounds wrong. How can this trigger/power happy bully get away with this kind of behavior?
How can it happen? He’s a cop. Cops shoot people all the time and unless there’s video, he’s the only one that get to tell his story.
First, I want to offer my condolenses to family of Bear Bear, this is just horrible and I hope the officer is somehow held responsible for his actions and judgement (or lack of).
Second I would like to bring to everyones attention the fact that entering an off leash park with your dog on leash can be a very costly mistake. Dog trainers and behaviorists, including Cesar Milan, have pointed out that it makes a very significant difference in the way your dog and the other dogs are going to react. When any one enters a bark park they are entering a pack and the behaviors that follow are part of that, the sniffing and sometimes mounting, position of ears and tail etc. is normal and as the dogs sort out their social hierarchy and positions in the pack are established everything will be fine. When your dog is on leash, it may want to protect you or it may feel restrained and exhibit a submissive posture which will make the dogs that are greeting the new pack member want to show their dominance and sometimes this can escalate. I try to explain this to people when I see it at the dog park, usually in to no avail, people don’t like other people telling them anything.
I guess that’s why the more dogs I meet the less I like humans.
“..people don’t like other people telling them anything..” — well of course not, you are all narcissists. That’s why you get dogs, you want a creature that worships you 24/7. As for you, I’ll bet you are also a woman: “.. I would like to bring to everyones attention ..” / “.. I try to explain this ..” — yes, count on a woman to think it is up to her to point out the correct way others (including other women!), but especially men, should act. Not to mention that a woman uses the pronoun “I” 7 times as often as a man does; another proof of narcissism.
EM If I want a creature to worship me 24/7 I will get you to do it you will be may slave.
EM, U R a total d0uche-bag!
You are a friggin idiot. How do you know a woman wrote that. It seems you really hate women. You for sure think that women shouldn’t tell a man what to do. Obviously you are uneducated and ignorant.I’ll bet a woman tells you what to do everyday at whatever job you have. Maybe that’s why you hate women so much because no one will date you. I suggest going back to school, learn how to write and act towards all people.
You ignorant Biotch!
I have witnessed plenty of dogf fights in my mind as I have owned pets who didn’t get along including two pit bulls. While scary to witness shooting a dog to stop a fight would be a last resort. Hardly ever is the fight going to end in death. So do we all now have the right to shhot another persons dog if it attacks ours! Ridiculous! If it is attacking a person by all means shoot it.
This makes me sick. I go to dog parks only in the early morning when all of the lazy owners are still sleeping in. The owners are worse than their dogs and so many don’t know anything about dog behavior. I love the idea of dog parks but to be honest, they so often show us the bad, ignorant side of dog ownership. (Everyone but this GSD’s owner knows GSDs are quite capable of taking care of themselves.) I think that show of extreme violence in a public setting could be so damaging to anyone around.
I feel sorry for his wife. I really do. He seems very unstable.
I am so sorry for Bear Bear and his loved people. The actions of that officer take defense to the max. Did he even give Bear Bear’s owner time to get him away? What a heartbreaking story. It makes me want to give my dogs an extra hug today.
How sad it makes me to hear about bear, it doesn’t surprise me though, the police everywhere are self important bullys
OK people calm down. If this trained police officer (only a person who has had an experience with the law would make such a negative comment about men and women who risk their own lives every day for us) thought this situation could have been handled any differently he would have would not have shot the dog. What was he suppose to do wait until he and his family were hurt? I know he made the right choice in a bad situation. I was attacked in my own yard by a doberman and my dog was killed…..wish I had a gun that day.
It was a dog fight at a *public dog park*. The officer completely over reacted regardless. My man concern is he had NO problem shotting a dog in public. Why did he even have is gun on him if he was OFF duty. Luckaly the the park was not crowded what if children would have been there. If it was you or me that would have shot the dog we would be in JAIL for firing a gun in publin
Here officers are required to carry a handgun while off duty because they are NEVER off duty. If you were being attached by an out of control dog you would have been glad to have an off duty officer come to your rescue.
Yes I would have but this was a couple of dogs in a designated dog park. And from what I have read he says that Bear Bear bit his dog on two occasions but no where is it collabrated or even mentioned other than in the officers statement. Jane,You are an idiot probably with no animals.
What if the shooter were just a regular citizen, not a police officer? I bet he would’ve been charged with a crime, like firing a weapon in public. This is another example of police abusing their authority.
So how much vet care did the officer’s dog require after the attack? And how many stitches did he need after Bear-Bear bit him? None and none? Case closed. This creep needs to be taken off the streets, given jail time, and made an example for any other trigger-happy cops.
OK, first of all, according to the police report and animal control that arrived on the scene neither the officer, nor his dog, nor his wife had a scratch on them. HE WASN’T BITTEN NOR WAS HIS DOG! HIS DOG DID NOT NEED MEDICAL ATTENTION. Yet, the police officers who arrived threatened the other dog’s owner WITH A TASER and did not let him get to his wounded and bleeding out dog for at least 20-30 minutes!
I can see both sides in this situation. I had a German Shephard to grab my Maltese one time. Luckily, the owner’s neice stopped the dog before he harmed our dog. Having your dog attacked can be very upsetting. On the other hand, was he sure they were fighting? Could this have been handled better? Did he give the other owner enough time to get his dog under control? From what I have read, I think the policeman may have been too quick to use his gun in this matter. No matter what, I feel very sorry for the owners of Bear-Bear, and they have my deepest sympathy.
Jane, there is some question about Shepard being a PO at all. Ft Myers seems to require the “officers” to check their weapons out at the beginning and back in at the end of their shift. Sounds like a rent-a-cop to me. The weapon used was his own personal weapon and there are some indications that he was not authorized to carry it.
Neither dog had any scratches or bites on them and neither did Shepard or his wife. The only injuries was the gunshot wound to Bear Bear.
Shepard and his lawyer seem to be trying to set up a scenario that this poor Iraq war “hero” has PTSD. Last I heard that is a mental illness and probably would not allow him to be a PO or legally carry a gun in most jurisdictions.
And I have to agree somewhat with anrodgers, After almost 30 years on the job working closely with POs I found that many consider themselves above the law and are God’s gift to humanity. The reality is that 99.99% of their job is writing up reports and driving around. It’s Firefighters and EMS that put themselves in danger every day for you ….. but rarely cops.
I really hope that you don’t believe what you wrote. Police do place themselves in harms way every day, as do fire personnel and EMS personnel. I know lots of both and have never been given the impression by most that they are “god’s gift” to anything. As for your comment about poor Iraq War “hero” – shame on you. You’re implying some harbored feeling against those that have served their country, that is a sad statement about you.
hey jim, shame on you for defendeing a dog killing pig
What’s this officers reaction going to be when he’s under pressure while he’s on duty with people involved. Psychologically this guy needs to be re-evaluated as an officer and hopefully some higher ranking officer won’t cover it up to protect the federal law enforcement public image before a teenager with an attitude problem gets shot by this gun weilding fool.
I believe what he did was wrong. You should never ever cause harm to an animal. Just walk away. Simple. Or take the dog away from the situation. It’s really simple and that could’ve been avoided. So sad for Bear Bear. He probably was just playing and pow! didn’t know what was going on.
How is it the officer isn’t being brought up on animal cruelty charges? Where are all the bleeding heart activists.
Jane’s blanket support for the “PO” sounds like what cops do. Protect their own at all costs. They will lie, conceal or plant evidence, even it will result in the conviction of the innocent. I will not give the police such an unquestioning pass. They are people too, and will use bad judgement at the same rates as the general population.
How about vetrinary reports of the dogs life threatening injuries, or for that matter the POs life threatening injuries?
I’ve been bitten by dogs, my wife has been bitten by our neighbors dog, twice. Does that give me the right to go ove rthere and kill their dog?
I think Never hit the nail on the head, you don’t enter an off leash dog park with your dog on leash, for a lot of good behavioral reasons. I think this cop made a series of bad decisions, and lotst control. He shouldn’t be allowed to carry a deadly weapon.
Well said, from unarmed woman who was beaten up in front of her 11 year old daughter while handcuffed by two policemen for “resisting” arrest and than belittled and made fun of with cruel statements about obesity and the “shock” a policeman had at the fact a man would actually have sex with her.
Great Job pigs, now kill a dog for NOTHING, no bites or scratches on anyone.
I would like to leave a comment, but I am shocked beyond words! I echo the concerns of the public about ANYONE carrying a loaded weapon into a dog park! I hope that not only criminal charges will be filed, but also civil charges on behalf of the owners loss! Animal cruelty MUST become a public safety issue b/c it is proven fact that animal abusers graduate to other forms of abuse if not stopped in their tracks! he also should be forbidden from ever owning an animal for he surely has no idea how to care for one…otherwise his own dog would not have been in that fray in the first place! Well, I guess I did find my words after all! Nuff said!
When handguns are available they will be used, whether needed or not. Perhaps billy clubs or sticks should be carried by off duty cops if they think they need protection while at a dog park.
Don’t you think firing the gun in the air would have separated the dogs without resulting in the death of bear.
Fire a gun into the air? Where is the bullet going to come down…exactly how stupid are you?
Self defense prevails in any attack situation and it is up to the victim to protect himself, family, and property. Kudos to the officer.
Excellent article, and I’m sure it will be picked up by the local media today, but watch how quickly law enforcement cronies will move to cover-up, and quash any further reporting, and this story will die as quickly as the dog that was shot.
They will most likely end it by saying that some high official will be investigating the incident and the Officer is temporarily suspended – then you will never hear any more about it.
The only thing law enforcement does better than uncovering crime, is covering it up when one of their own is involved.
It happens all too often.
http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=11&articleid=20100802_11_0_CATOOS625724
Okay Jane…maybe you haven’t been reading the news lately…but, the increase in dog shootings by “responsible” officers in blue, have become almost epidemic! As a former wife of a K-9 officer..I often wonder what kind of people the departments in the country are hiring? Are they conducting any type of mentality tests when hiring these people? I think NOT! If this is how they are protecting us, I would rather they don’t!
My heart goes out to the family of Bear-Bear…my thoughts and prayers are with you! As for the family of the officer who killed Bear, God help you too! Be careful…this man needs help!
ABSURD! This is just crazy. Do not come in a dog park with the leash on your dog. Be willing to step in to break up agressive behavior. I would much rather take a bite myself than have a dog shot. The dog was not after him or his wife. Their safety was not in jeopardy. This is totally an over reaction. This man needs to have his gun taken away. If he has PTSD, get him treatment. Get him far away from the dog parks. Now Big Bears owner gets to live with PTSD. Ver sad. Very sad.
Having worked at one of the off-leash dog parks, I know for a fact that some dogs do fight. I have had to separate dogs many times, pit bulls, shepards, etc. Bear-bear should not have been shot, I’m sure given a little time the owner of Bear Bear could’ve pulled his dog aside. The supposed police officer should not have brought the gun into the park in the first place. This man needs to be brought up on charges, sued for the loss of Bear-Bear and not allowed to own any weapon. He should also attend anger management classes. I feel so bad for Bear-Bear and his owners.
Attn. Wack Jobs:
Train your dogs. It is your responsibility to have constant control of you animal. If your dog is “dog aggressive” and is apt to attack other animals, keep it on leash and under your physical control.
I have a concealed carry permit and if your dog attacks mine (which is always under my control), I will end your dog’s life immediately and I doubt I would have a moment of regret. I any second thoughts I would have, would be for a dog that did not have an owner who properly trained and took responsibility for it. The death will be your fault, not mine. I have the legal right to protect myself and those I care about.
If any of you had a bit of sense, you would recognize that the husky’s owner is the one at fault. If the dog was under the owner’s control, there would have been no problem. I feel bad for the off-duty officer who was put in an unfortunate position due to the irresponsible actions of others.
The comments of this board reflect a group of people who have no concept of responsibility and write responses devoid of reason but overflowing with emotional nonsense.
And you are obviously an inhuman sociopath who has no sense of empathy for any living creature. I feel sorry for your dogs. I’m sure you beat them when they don’t tow the line.
Hey Planet Jerk, Are you the rogue cop. You certainly have the same mentality….pyscopathic nut job..
I just wrote an article on this subject. Don’t be surprised when it happens. The Police are completely out of control.
http://dogcd.com/police/terrorists-dressed-as-police-shoot-dogs-with-impunity-across-usa/
The shooter will be punished. I’m pulling for him to lose his job and pay damages to the owners.
Planet Earth = Internet tough guy… So tough, he won’t leave his name.
Attn: Jerkoff:
We get the message. You’re a real tough guy who can shoot a dog. The only reason girly men like you shoot dogs, is because:
a. you are girly men who don’t know how to handle dogs
b. you can get away with shooting dogs
It’s interesting that you tie your morality to whether or not the dog has an owner. Completely irrational, and immoral or should I say “Amoral.” Typical jack-booted militarized thug mentality that has taken over law enforcement in America.
http://dogcd.com/police/terrorists-dressed-as-police-shoot-dogs-with-impunity-across-usa/
have a nice day
Give me a break. If I was in the same situation you better believe that I would protect my dog and my family and if that means killing a dog that is trying to kill me dog, then SO BE IT. Get your own dog under control and don’t force me to go this far
He could have simply shot into the ground. The shot would have got any dogs attention. If it were two ppl fighting would he have shot one to break up the fight?
I think someone should have shot the police officer out of fear that he was going crazy and shooting at a public park. I suppose they would have said that was unreasonable. (Unless he was a fellow police officer and then it would have been his judjement and training entitled him to kill anyone he felt like) Just like Fresno, CA, except here the officer would have lied about it and the dog’s owner would have been accused of something and arrested. Good thing you didn’t take Bear-Bear to Fresno to be killed.
Too bad that firing he’s weapon into the air wasn’t an option…… oh wait.
Firing a weapon into the air means that bullet is coming down somewhere you can’t control. Firing into the ground means it will ricochet. If you can’t control your dogs or if they are an aggressive breed DO NOT take them to an off leash park. That is absolutely STUPID!
My thirteen year old lab was attacked by two pitbulls. The only reason she is alive today is because my neighbor hit them with bricks. She was severely injured. Had I been home at the time both pitts would have been shot. I would have honestly felt very bad for those dogs as it would have been the fault of the owner not theirs.
I have made it very clear to the owner what will happen if there is a recurrence.
Once the officer shot the dog,he should have then continued to should the few human witnesses at or near the park.The PO left witnesses and that was is mistake.
@Heather #32… please, if you are that reactionary, please stay out of the parks. Please stay away from teenagers… Please stay off the roads…. Please don’t go to any public place that may have long lines. And, most of all, please do not apply for a job at my place of employment.
Dogs are like 3 year olds ~ that argue, tussle, and carry on.. but, most of the time they will settle the issue themselves. However, fanatic over-reacting humans with guns are a danger at all times.
Those of you who believe Shephard was acting in self defense are just buying into the lie he created to cover his ass. It’s not like nobody in the area knew who Bear-Bear was. That dog was a regular in that dog park. Every week, at least 3 times a week, Bear-Bear was there playing with people and other dogs.
He had a solid history of never, ever, being aggressive to anybody, human or dog. Did you know Huskies are the least aggressive breed towards strangers? In a scientific study they found that out of 54 huskies tested, zero of them – ZERO – were aggressive towards strangers.
Did you also know that huskies play rough? Huskies like to wrestle and are very physical when they play. But here’s the important part – it is still JUST PLAY. Shephard misinterpreted Bear-Bear’s playing with his dog as aggression, and killed him.
I own a husky. I know how they play. I know exactly what happened in that dog park, based on that, and the reports – even the report from Shephard himself which was actually unwittingly describing exactly how huskies play. He called it “aggression”. I can only assume that’s because he’s an idiot.
The problem is that he was an idiot with a gun and a very quick trigger finger. He needs to be held accountable for ending the life of an innocent dog.
Bear Bear was shot in the rear. A strange place to get hit if he was a threat to him and his wife. He was also shot with a hollow point bullet. Neither the federal officer, his wife or his dog has any injuries. Strange that he feared for his families safety. This information is quite telling…..
From another source …
Bear Bear’s guardian asks the off-duty shooter — “Was that a Taser?” Shooter said, “No. That’s 9 millimeter. I hit him in the rear. I don’t see any blood. I think he’s going to be okay,” and just calm about it,” said Stephen Kurinij, who was watching the dog for his sister and brother-in-law. ”
The shooters was just calm about it! And he is a gov’t employee that shoots dogs in parks.
“Did the dog really need to be shot? ”
Not necessarily. Most cops have knives with them. He could have cut its throat.
“Was it appropriate to fire a gun in public, putting innocent people, children, and other dogs in the neighborhood at risk?”
It’s always appropriate to fire a gun in public when your life or safety are threatened. Firing at a dog is shooting downward, so there was little risk to anyone or anything other than the cop’s own dog, and I would be willing to say he had a good enough shot not to be too concerned about that.
“Plus, when you enter an off-leash dog park, you know there is a possibility that the dogs will not all get along.”
And people know that if you enter a biker bar on a remote highway in Texas, you have a high probability of being assaulted. It doesn’t excuse the person assaulting you.
“Bear-Bear’s owners say that their dog has never had a problem with aggression, and the owner’s brother felt that the dogs were just playing roughly. ”
Dogs don’t “play roughly” until they’ve known each other at least a few minutes. There is requisite nose-sniffing, butt-sniffing, head-lowering, and tail-wagging that MUST happen before dogs can safely make aggressively playful actions. It sounds like those did not happen. When they don’t happen, dogs are FIGHTING. And in nature, anytime an animal attacks another animal, there is the possibility of injury or death.
If your dog is attacking (or even just playing) with another dog and that owner tells you to get your dog away, you had better do so. It’s not a joke and it’s not about what you think your dog is doing or should be able to do. The cop told the guy to get that dog away from his dog. The guy failed. The dog died. Lesson learned.
As someone that works with animals, this story makes you upset, its tragic. However until the minority of this country takes our freedoms away, we still have the right to defend ourselves from a threat.
A cop is a cop 24/7; if this guy really is a cop since i notice some question of his status; esp since the article says he is a fed.
This comment board just goes to show how sad alot of you people are here, you dont agree with something so, its ok for one comment to suggest shooting the cop.
Yes the Shepherd shouldnt have been on the leash in a dog park, however did they just walk in?, did the Husky immediately came right over? What is the truth of shooters injuries? What is the Shepherd’s injuries? Where was the owner? How far from controlling the dog?Why was the dog allowed to get that close to the Shepherd?
( you all dont know; cause you werent there!)
Get the facts before you want to call all cops bullies drunk with power.
I’ve been bitten by three dogs in the past and all of them “have never bitten anyone before”. Isn’t that wonderful? Keep your dogs on a leash for his safety and your liability.
So what’s the story from the side of Bear-Bear’s owner? This story is very one-sided.
I do not agree with what the officer did, but I can’t help but wonder would there be the same compassion for bear bear if he were a pitbull or other bully breed.
Wow – the half-wits continue unabated….
Angie- you are correct, dogs are like three year olds but potentially much more dangerous – that’s why we as responsible owners must have control over them.
Zak- read the article, “shepard” did not shoot the husky, his owner did. In your words: I can only assume you are an idiot….
Jackie- if the husky was biting his dog, what part of the husky’s body should he aim for other than the rear? What does the use of hollow points have to do with this? Would you feel better snacking on your tofu if the officer had reloaded his gun with a different type of bullet before shooting the husky?
“Firing into the ground means it will ricochet. ”
You obviously know little about guns. Unless I’m mistaken, dog parks are turf, dirt, or sand-covered, correct? Bullets do not ricochet off grass or dirt, and hollowpoints fired from a handgun don’t usually ricochet off anything.
John do a bit more research from the articles I have read there was some interaction before.
If they were fighting there would be at least one wound the police report which is available online if you search states there were no injuries to shephard his wife or his dog “Asia”
Planet earth
Shoting the dog in the rear shows that he was not coming towards him so where was the threat to his life. Shepard is the officers name! now whos the idiot.
Jackie-
“County police did not name the federal officer”
Baltimore Sun
You are the idiot
Really? The dog’s “guardian”? That’s liberal-speak for OWNER. And please explain to me HOW this is a “tragedy” it involves dogs. Save the word tragedy for humans or children. Not everything in this world is a “tragedy”. ALSO how can a dog actually get “justice”? This is absurd. It’s more disconcerting that a gun was fired in a public place. The force MAY have been excessive but if the dog was vicious, that’s the way it goes. And I AM a dog lover but I also will protect MY pet and family.
in a dog park, you should be prepared to deal with dogs that may not get along…you never know when even non-aggressive dog friendly dogs may get into a short confrontation. 99% of the time, if the owner is there to establish his/her position at the alpha in the pack, the issue is safely resolved. Now the cop really looks like a big man, pulling his gun and taking out the husky. (a cop once refused to enter my home because “if your dog goes for my throat, i WILL shoot it”….my dog is a 65 pound standard poodle trained as a service dog…paranoid much?
i find the picture of a cute little terrier (?) dog above the
article leading to the story a lie. this story is about a seberian husky and a german shepard. both very good
sized dogs . they are not toy chihuahuas or terriers like i have .they are capableof killing and have done so . i own a terrior and while breking up a fight between him and another small dog at a dog park i was bitten on the thumb and it broke my bone. but never did i think either dog would do the damage me like a shepard and a 3yr old husky.my boyfriend (6ft 280 lbs-59yrs) says that he wouldnt be stupid enough to get between a husky n a shepard!why? u have to concetrate on controling one while turning your attention away from the other.either dog can do serious dmage to your hands, legs, muscles ,or your privates.my second objection is the people second guessing the the mans actions ? were u their? did u see the dogs actions? it could have been an over reaction? why didnt the reporters ask the witnesses to this shooting if they would have jumped between the dogs?would they jump between them if they had a weapon of some kind? stick? baseball bat? and their was no mention of the weight of these dogs? last question what is the right /wrong way to separate large dogs? small dogs? without serious harm to say your face? didnt see that on animal planet yet? maybe their should be such a show?
Planet Earth
Remember where you heard his name “Keith Shephard” then see whos the idiot!
Time will tell
Planet Earth, you sir are seriously the wack job. You sound like the type that would start shooting at another driver on the freeway because you were cut off and “put in danger”.
Inasmuch as we can’t shoot the shooter, I hope if this case goes before a judge, the man is forbiden to ever own a dog, or have a dog in his family, or to be around dogs of all kinds.
Too bad the bullet didn’t riccochet off a rock and hit him in his family jewels.
“my dog is a 65 pound standard poodle trained as a service dog…paranoid much?”
Standard poodles have the strongest jaws of any breed.
“in a dog park, you should be prepared to deal with dogs that may not get along…”
Sounds like the cop was fairly well prepared to me…
“Planet Earth, you sir are seriously the wack job. You sound like the type that would start shooting at another driver on the freeway because you were cut off and “put in danger”.”
Sounds like you have trouble distinguishing between people and animals.
Shooting an animal that attacks you or your animal is hardly the same thing as shooting a PERSON on the highway for cutting you off.
It’s truly sad that you don’t know the difference.
Plant Earth (how ironic.. you’r not even close…) – You are a moron. IF you were walking down the street and an off-leash dog attacked you and your on-leash dog, I can see the justification. However. This was at a DOG PARK!! RULE #1 at a dog park. DO NOT KEEP YOUR DOG ON LEASH WHEN YOU ENTER!!! If you knew so much about dogs and training you would know this.. but you don’t, hence the fact you are a moron. This cop totally overreacted and obviously had NO clue what he was doing, and should’ve never BEEN at the dog park. Any dog park I’ve been to, there is a small enclosure that you walk into, close the gate, take your dog off leash, and then open the gate to the main dog park enclosure, and then let the dogs run and figure it out themselves. You’re not even supposed to encourage your dog to congregate with other dogs around you. They can get too defensive and then fights start. I wish more people would read up on dog pack behavior and their role in it before going to dog parks. I’ve been to plenty of parks with my dogs, and have seen a lot of stupid people there, acting stupidly. You’d probably be one of them…
planet earth I think you are a piece of s**t. The only reason most people like you carry a gun is because your mouth overloads your a**. You feel like a big tough guy because of the gun. I hope one day you run into another person with your frame of mind and you shoot each other.
sounds like the GSD owner may not be educated in how dogs interact w/ each other and assumed dog play fighting is more than it appears.
Michelle-
You are correct that I am far from an expert on dog parks. I avoid them like the plague because of people just like you who bring their four legged children there without adequate training, proper shots and sporting a case of bordetella. I train dogs for field trials, originally in a professional capacity but now as a hobby.
Nevertheless, if you actually believe that a dog park somehow mitigates the responsibility of a dog owner to control his or her animal then I contend that you are the fool.
Planet Earth – maybe YOU should read the article again..”Police have not released the name of the off-duty officer, but NewsChannel 8 has revealed him as Keith Shephard”
John – Some dog parks have gravel. And not to mention.. if there were a rock UNDER the grass, or dirt, or sand.. it would ricochet, would it not??
GUNS DON’T BELONG IN DOG PARKS. PERIOD.
Should have kept a closer eye on the dog … I would do the same
Michelle – I never addressed you. Unless you’re “Planet Earth” or “John”
My dogs ARE trained, have all their required (rabies) and not necessarily required (bordetella, aka “kennel cough”) shots. So therefore, the people who you are avoiding are NOT “just like” me. I am a responsible dog owner. If I saw my dog getting agressive with another dog and being obnoxious, I, as their “alpha” would step in an a SECOND and fix the situation. However.. that does not mitigate the in-coming dog owner’s responsibility to properly introduce HIS dog to the “pack”.. and CERTAINLY… There is NO WAY there will be any justification for shooting a dog in a DOG PARK!! That is just insane BULLSH!T! Are you seriously saying that shooting a dog in a dog park is ok?? The cop had no business being there if he has no idea how dogs interact with each other and can’t handle a situation unless he shoots his way out of it. The people you are avoiding in dog parks are “just like” HIM!!
If a pitbull in a dog park started chewing on your child, I’m pretty sure every one of you would want to have a gun on you.
This post is full of speculation. If a dog jumped on mine and started biting, and I tried to get him off, but he started biting me, I would also fear for my life and the life of my wife. I don’t blame him for doing what he had to do.
Michael
If another child jumped on your child and starting biting him would you shoot him also? Would you not at least try to pull him off first?
I sincerely hope you would.
How ignorant. This man does not know animal behavior. He probably panics when his dog (or bitch) humps or is humped and gets involved to remove the offending dog! Does NOT realize that is dominating behavior. How horrible. He isn’t even aware of how little he knows. He shouldn’t be allowed to have an animal. Or probably to breed himself! Get out of the parks.
Also, some “men and women” in law enforcement can get a case of the macho when in public, arrogant, above the law with so little insight. They may know their job but they don’t know all of human or animal behavior.
While I am sympathetic to the owner of the dog that was killed, as a dog owner myself, I have to say, if the facts are accurate, then, there is some blame here to go on the owners of the dog that was killed. As a pet owner, you have an obligation to have your pet under control (either by leash, or voice command) at all times. People should never have to wonder, as your dog rushes up to them, barking and snarling, whether or not they are going to get bitten. All too many people get dogs, never take them to obedience class, never take the time to train them, etc.. I have been bitten twice by dogs, and both times it was when a dog came rushing toward me while their owner called out and assured me “Don’t worry, he doesn’t bite!”.
There are great officers and there are those who should not wear the title. Not sure which this officer is…either way it was bad judgement on his part to do this in a dog park. I can assure you…there are plenty of officers out there who should not be…We have some locals in my area that were picked on in school as kids….now they are local cops and you should see these clowns in action…its a shame. One told me one day at a civic function…had he not been a cop…he would have been a criminal. We need more stringent regulations on who wears the badge…and rid each Dept of these types ASAP.
Another punk cop acting like a tough guy and hiding behind his gun.
Michael – what speculation? Shephard (that is the shooter’s name by the way) described how the dogs were interacting IN HIS OWN REPORT. It was not aggression, it was PLAYING. Furthermore, neither Shephard nor his dog had a scratch on them. Shephard claimed that Bear-Bear bit his dog.
He was lying. That’s not speculation. The issue here is that a number of you appear to believe the BS that Shephard has been spewing. Additionally, you don’t pull out a gun and start firing in a dog park. You just don’t do it. It’s reckless endangerment in addition to being an absolutely massive overreaction.
Shephard didn’t even TRY to break them up. He just stepped back and fired. And Bear-Bear was PLAYING. By his own account, his own dog was ALSO playing. His descriptions of how they were acting were the descriptions of two dogs playing – except Shephard added that Bear-Bear was biting his dog which has been PROVEN FALSE.
Those of you who are knee-jerk defending Shephard are not doing yourselves any favors by ignoring the facts. You’re saying that you think it’s fine for some psychopath to start firing guns wherever they want, for whatever reason they want, and they shouldn’t have to suffer any consequences for it.
Most people can separate dogs without SHOOTING one of them. But Shephard is a coward and has to resort to deadly force regardless of the situation.
If one of us (who aren’t cops, off-duty or not) shot the Husky, we’d be thrown in the slammer, with an impending lawsuit. But not the cop, I’m sure. They more or less have a license to kill. Every time you hear of any person or pet being shot by a cop, very rarely does it ever result in a conviction.
Must be nice to be one of the privileged in America.
I am settled with it going to the Criminal Courts. Or perhaps even a Civil Court later down the road.
Having said that, I will not speculate. If the officer is found guilty, by all means punish the dog killer.
My heart goes out to Bear Bear’s owners and loved ones. I adore dogs and own two. I have a Rottweiler and Sharpei-Lab Mix. I live (rent) in an upscale neighborhood in Fallbrook, CA. There are 4 police officers that reside in my subdivision. My family are the only renters in the development and one of my cop-neighbors doesn’t want renters bringing down property values. My Sharpei-Lab mix has gotten out our yard a couple times and we have retrieved her immediately, she just sees other dogs and wants to play. She is age 2. Two of the cop-neighbors have threatened to shoot her if she gets out again and they tell me “they are cops” and no one is going to do a thing. I don’t believe that Fed’s story for a minute!!!
I have worked in Law Enforcement for 22 years and this more than disturbs me. Most off duty officers carry a weapon for emergencies having to do with major CRIMES. Going to a dog park to run your dog should be a safe and pleasant outing for both humans and canines. The explanation quote from the officer just does not seem realistic. I am very glad this case has been reopened. I send heartfelt condolences to Bear-bear’s family and friends.
PO should have shot the owners as well.
Heck yes he acted appropriately!!!! ALL dogs MUST be under control at ALL times….that friggin dog bit my dog/family/friend etc…should be put down!!! And if he is a federal officer who carries a gun on duty/off duty…the safety of others Im sure was NOT in question…YOU FRIGGIN LIBERALS need to get a clue…keep tucking your head in the sand….FRIGGIN IDIOTS!!! No wonder this country is headed in a downward spiral!!
Well, if it were someone that wasn’t in law enforcement, the person would be in jail! When one goes to a dog park it is at their own risk, I don’t recall reading where the policeman’s dog was being killed. Enough is enough, I am not a fan of people who abuse power. What if he would have injured a human? There are laws against discharging a firearm in public. This man sounds like a loose cannon and needs therapy.
I think the Dog got what it deserved.. I hate dogs larger then 50 Lbs…My grandfather has an old German Shepherd that is very aggressive every time I come around especially when grandfather leaves the room.
It is simple ray the dogs knows you hate them so they are going to be ready for you.
Give me a break. I own a husky, and while I love her to do death, I’m rolling my eyes as I read both the article and most of these comments. All of you are assuming that the officer acted unprofessionally on no more evidence than what is reported here? Seriously?
I’ve had poorly trained/managed dogs act aggressively towards me and my pets. We had a situation very similar to this recently — a stray pit bull began to act aggressively towards my wife and our two dogs (which, for the record, were behaving themselves inside our fenced-in yard) while I was at work. Fortunately, my wife was able to get our dogs inside the house, but only by placing herself between my dog and the pit bull. The pit’s owner was nowhere in site. Had I been home, and the pit had actually attacked my husky, I’d have shot it, too.
Dogs can easily be dangerous, a responsible pet owner wouldn’t have let their pet get into this situation. If I was carrying a gun and a dog attacked me I would do the same. My condolences go out to the officer who may lose his job simply over the negative press….
Good for him. People need to be responsible for their pets. (leash or no, manners are always important). I am glad that SOMEONE was there to protect Asia. She didn’t ask to be bit! Lets prosecute the offending DOG OWNER who let their dog be a danger to others. Now if only we can get a Court Judge who has some common sense and will let this poor federal officer go back to work, so we tax payers (who vote) can get some work done. How STUPID to pull a man off his job over such nonsense.
I don’t see what the problem is…I would have done the same thing or worse.
Sounds like one dog was going to die that day. If the husky’s owner didn’t want to step in to save the shepherd, then it certainly wasn’t the shepherd’s owner responsibility to just stand there and let his dog get killed by the husky. The owner did the right thing and protected himself and his dog.
I should be able to go to a dog park without fearing about a nut case with a loaded weapon.
Reckless endangerment by an off duty law enforcement officer puts our entire society in danger.
I would not want this person in my place of employment, as my neighbor, in my home or anywhere near me and my loved ones (four-legged or otherwise).
Aggression and impulsive and irresponsible behavior in a LEO carrying a loaded gun is a public safety issue and a disaster to one and all.
Good,
One less mutt pissing in the park where my kids are playing.
Psychopaths agree: “Happiness is a warm gun .. happiness is a warm gun .. happiness is a warm gun. ” Someday, perhaps in another lifetime, Shepard’s playful pet will be cruelly and unnecessarily taken from him. Get some help Mr. Shepard. You really need it! You are a low life with some bad karma on your hands now! Am confident you will meet yourself someday just as need to!
This will be covered up along with all other Police misconduct.
“Bear-Bear’s loved ones”? Condolences? Honestly. If you are at a dog park and yor dog goes running off, you takes your chances. If it gets hit by a car, you wouldn’t go after the driver, would you (well, OK I know some of you WOULD, but it would be silly). YOUR DOG IS LOOSE! It’s like not watching your 5 year old..if they get into trouble, it’s YOUR fault!
My GSD does NOT play well with others and I ALWAYS leash her, but the loose dogs in our neighborhood always run up to her and act aggressively. If she bites them (and she has), I let her..I know she can take them. If I had a gun, I would shoot those dogs too. It has no bearing on whether the guy was a cop or not. “Bear-Bear” (cute fluffy name) was wrong, and so were his owners.
First of all my deepest sympathy goes out to Bear-Bear’s family and just hope no children witnessed this horrid behavior. This type of behavior from law inforcement seem to be getting out hand. Are we safe? Just about a month ago in Pleasanton, California at the Alameda County Fair, a pregnant cow got loose from its pen and started roaming the fairgrounds (fair hadn’t opened yet). A few felt threatened so the shot the poor cow several times. Isn’t that great?
TO dutchoven:
The last time I was walking my dog I watched in disbelief and disgust, 20 something male pissing in the park, in public and in view of all. You are the reason why the gene pool could use some clorine.
Wow, a lot of hating going on here. Against one another and against the animals. So let me give myself up…. I rescue everything that is thrown away way out here in the country where I live, I have handled guns since I was seven and I have been in some type of law enforcement for thirty years. I have seen both bad and tremendously good cops. Do I agree with what this cop did….naaaah….sounds like panic and over reaction to me. I am grieved for the dog. I have lots of big animals and I agree you must be in control, ie., the alpha. For all that I have seen over the past 30 years, I will never cease to be shocked by man’s cruelty, both in words! and actions. There are no easy anwsers or simple excuses for any act of violence…whether by word or deed. Try to get all the information that you can, consider, reflect and then make your judgement. And by all means do not believe 99% of what the media says….yep, worked for CBS for several years before I went into cop work….geez! I’m old! And no, I don’t know everything, but I have been around for a long time and know that everything isn’t what it seems, thus please get all the facts before you judge so sharply on any person or creature involved in such an ugly situation. I truly would love to be put out of business, … then I wouldn’t have to worry about my loved ones stepping out of the door or my animals on my property. I wish you all blessings, success and safety.
wendy…please go play in traffic.
all the nra fans please clean your guns while they are loaded.
too bad the cop just didn’t kill himself years ago.
hate douche bags like you.
Interesting how most of the the “Monday morning quarterbacks” don’t know the facts (as most of us don’t) but presume that the dog that attacked the shooter and his dog shouldn’t have been shot. Based on the story, I would have done the same.
Planet Earth–you need to come back to earth.You are actuall the wack job. If the stupid cop was in the right then why was he shot in the rear? This was a off lease park you twit.Too bad your dad didn’t use a condom.People like you are the reason for carrying a gun
To all the people saying “Well the dog was just running around loose in a park where my kids play. I’da done the same ol’ thing.”
Uh dumb-asses…It was a fenced in DOG park. You dumb fux should ease the population by taking a bath with a toaster plugged in.
This is what happens when idiots are allowed to walk around with guns.
Hey Steve,
You don’t know the facts…you should be shot…and I hope you are.
Lucky it wasn’t a black person like Victor Steen, Sean Bell or Aiyana Jones; there would be no prosecutors assigned to the case at all, and this weak pathetic shivering scum would never be investigated.
I really hope the worst for this piss poor excuse for both a cop and as a person. All you gun haters try to remember that was an idiot that pulled that trigger and not the gun. When police have all the guns, all the guns will be owned by bulling morons that due nothing to protect you or your loved ones. May this idiot rot in hell….
I am sure the police officer is sorry to have been put in the position of having to kill another pet as he surely loves dogs himself or he would not have one and be taking him to the park. Unfortunatly he reacted the same way I would if one of my dogs were attacked by a dog capable of killing it or me. He had no choice but to defend his dog and when the dog turned on him and became a threat to him he did exactly what I would do. He killed him. I am sure he could determine direction of the bullet and danger to bystanders. If the bullet were entering a body it likely would not exit or be a danger to bystanders. If you have a dog capable of killing you have to have him under control or lease even in public no leash park. If you do not, you put a pet lover in the position of having to kill a pet. The blame is with the owner. If you cant control him under all circumstances, leash and have pepper spray handy. I am sure that is exactly what a court would say. No animal life is worth that of a human even when we love them so. I am one that loves my dogs (poodles) like children and am very loving and protective. My heartflelt sympathy to the dogs owner. I am so sorry for you and hurt with you because of your sorrow.
gun toters are just scared pussies,they can’t handle life and it’s challenges like the rest of us
I had some neighbors who were doing some bad things that prompted them to be raided by police. They had several pets including two pitbulls that were about 2 years old. Very playful and social, were these dogs and they barked alot for no reason. Strange to me, these pitbulls were constantly trying to lick people near them. Anyway, as I got ready for work I notice the police busting through the neighbors door, soon thereafter I hear gunshots. Blood from the dead dog was drug all over their floor. The other dog to this day has a couple of slugs in her. She has never been the same. They knew these people weren’t violent or dangerous. The elderly man who owned the house was veteran of Vietnam and a green beret and clueless as to what went on in his house. They killed the dogs in the house. Shattered their sliding back door and left a few walls with bullet holes. I don’t condone what these neighbors were doing, but the excessive force I’ll never forget. They weren’t concerned with safety at all. It looked as if they went out of there way to assert power with warrant in hand. I know there’s a criminal element that uses dogs as guards. Police are at risk, but they knew the situation there and sought to abuse. Other neighbors in the cul-de-sac were traumatized and were in disbelief the way the dogs were slaughtered.
If that clown had taken a gun out to shoot my dog when he left his dog on a leash in violation of the rules, I’d have no choice but to take out my gun and shoot him to defend myself and my family who my dog is part of.
We should all carry guns so more problems can be solved quickly.
Did ANYONE notice that the husky was not at the park with his owner, but the brother of the owner? (alpha issue irrelevant)
Did ANYONE notice that the officer’s name is Shepard (doesn’t matter who released his name, its still his name and not his dogs name) his dog is named Asia, But names are not the issue here are they??
I believe in gun ownership, I believe you have a right to protect yourself/family etc. But seriously, carrying a gun into a fenced Dog park??
The issue isn’t if he had his dog on a leash or was just about to take the dog off the leash, he should not have brought his gun into the park. It was unnecessary use of force and the other dog did not need to die. Now if this had occurred on the officer’s property or while he was walking down some random street, some force may have been necessary…but first please try to separate the animals. The husky owner’s BROTHER may have been at a disadvantage if the husky ran off, you can’t catch up with a dog…they run faster than a human can. Also, it might not have been trained to listen well to someone other than his owners…it may or may not have been trained period.
I own a gun but would never take it into a park, I keep it home for protection because I am a single mother who’s ex-husband and his “buddies” are real pieces of work.
I feel the officer used excessive force and should be evaluated before being allowed to return to work, because yes, sudden and excessive force can escalate into other more damaging issues. Yes this man over reacted and that is why he needs to be evaluated before returning to public service with a loaded gun.
This was a dog, hassling or playing with another dog … NOT a human child being attacked.
(I understand that there are a lot of people that are VERY attached to their animals and treat them as their children) I would be looking at the situation differently if the dog had been attacking a human child at the dog park…but again a gun would have put the child in even more danger and should NOT have been brought into the Dog park.
I have always loved my animals, treated some as my babiesl…but if my animal were being attacked I would not shoot the other animal…beat it with a stick, kick it, throw rocks at it, grab my dog and throw it over the fence if necessary (yes, large dogs can be picked up and put over a fence, I am small and I could lift my large boxer) there are so many alternatives!
There are obviously appropriate times and places to carry a gun…If you are ON DUITY , If you are in the armed forces and in a conflict etc. But NOT at a Dog park, fenced or not, leash or off leash. Dogs will fight, dogs will play rough. It sounds like the husky was excited to see a new friend come in, it may have been the first time the officer had taken his dog to a park. I would have been a little nervous my first time. I was not there, I didn’t see this happen, regardless… I don’t care who was carrying the gun, a gun should NOT be in a dog park, zoo, aquarium, movie theater etc! I know, some places have security personnel carrying weapons. They are the ones assigned to do the job at that location, if you are officer and carry a gun as a general rule…Leave it locked up in your vehicle then and only then (if necessary) return for it if some out of control person (not dog) is running around shooting at all the people at the park and needs to be stopped.
NOW:
Did ANYONE take English in school, Does ANYONE know how to spell?? You are all calling each other idiots and such…before you call each other names, be sure you can spell what you are writing in your remarks, you ALL sound stupid.
TOO BAD NO ONE ELSE HAD A GUN, JUSTIFIED SHOOTING WOULD BE THE WORD OF THE DAY THERE,
THIS CRAZY MAN PULLED A GUN AND STARTED SHOOTING, I WAS AFRAID FOR MY LIFE SO AS HE SHOT MY DOG, I SHOT HIM
Did ANYONE notice that the husky was not at the park with his owner, but the brother of the owner? (alpha issue irrelevant in this situation).
Did ANYONE notice that the officer’s last name is Shepard? (it doesn’t matter who released his name, its still his name and not his dogs name) his dog is named Asia, But names are not the issue here are they??
I believe in gun ownership, I believe you have a right to protect yourself/family etc. But seriously, carrying a gun into a fenced Dog park??
The issue isn’t if he had his dog on a leash or was just about to take the dog off the leash, he should not have brought his gun into the park. It was unnecessary use of force and the other dog did not need to die.
Now if this had occurred on the officer’s property, in his home or while he was walking/driving his “beat” and a dog was attacking a person out in the streets or a play ground some force may have been necessary, this wasn’t the case. First please try to separate the animals and realize that this animal was not a cougar or grizzly or some other wild animal. Domestic animals do not need to be shot unless they are rabid/trained to fight etc.
The husky owner’s BROTHER may have been at a disadvantage if the husky ran off (happens a lot at off leash dog parks) you can’t catch up with a dog…they run faster than a human can. Also, it might not have been trained to listen well to someone other than his owners…it may or may not have been trained period.
I own a gun but would never take it into a park, I keep it home for protection because I am a single mother who’s ex-husband and his “buddies” are real pieces of work. I carry a knife when I am out in public but be assured I would not do so without the proper training in self defense (as in not have it taken from and used on me, how to stop attacker but not kill)
The officer used excessive force and should be evaluated before being allowed to return to work, because yes, sudden and excessive force can escalate into other more damaging issues. Yes this man over reacted and that is why he needs to be evaluated before returning to public service with a loaded gun.
This was a dog, hassling or playing with another dog … NOT a human child being attacked.
(I understand that there are a lot of people that are VERY attached to their animals and treat them as their children) I would be looking at the situation differently if the dog had been attacking a human child at the dog park…but again a gun would have put the child in even more danger and should NOT have been brought into the Dog park.
I have always loved my animals, treated some as my babies…but if my animal were being attacked I would not shoot the other animal…beat it with a stick, kick it, throw rocks at it, grab my dog and throw it over the fence if necessary (yes, large dogs can be picked up and put over a fence, I am small and I could lift my boxer) there are so many alternatives!
There are obviously appropriate times and places to carry a gun…If you are a police officer on the job, If you are in the armed forces and in a conflict etc. But NOT at a Dog park, fenced or not fenced, leash or off leash.
Dogs will fight, dogs will play rough. It sounds like the husky was excited to see a new friend come in, it may have been the first time the officer had taken his dog to a park. (I would have been a little nervous my first time, not knowing how the other unknown animals would react to mine) But I don’t know the exact situation, I was not there, I do not know the personalities of the animals in question and I didn’t see this happen. It sounds like the husky had a very good personality according to people that knew him. Obviously the officer DIDN’T know the husky. Regardless… I don’t care who was carrying the gun, a gun should NOT be in a dog park, zoo, aquarium, movie theater etc! I know, some places have security personnel carrying weapons. They are the ones assigned to do the job at that location, this officer was not assigned as security at the park and should NOT have brought his gun.
If you are an officer who is not working and carry a gun as a general rule…Leave it locked up in your vehicle if you are at a park. (KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR VEHICLE) Then and only then (if necessary) return for it if some out of control person (not dog) is running around shooting at all the (human) people in the park and needs to be stopped.
Again, there are some places where its necessary for an off duty officer to carry a gun, but a fenced dog park is not one of them.
Now I am not saying a human’s life is any more important than an animals (wait, yes I am) Don’t get me wrong, animal cruelty is wrong, people that abuse animals should be punished severely.
The officer in this situation made a poor choice, first in bringing the gun into a fenced dog park. Then in using the gun to break up a situation that could have been handled in so many other ways. But I don’t believe he runs around shooting and abusing animals as a general rule. He reacted impulsively with very sad results and I hope he is going to be responsible and take what ever punishment is required. Anger management, counseling, retraining…
NOW:
Did ANYONE take English in school, Does ANYONE know how to spell?? You ALL sound like…well, I’m not going to say it.
Every man has right to defend himself and his loved ones and if he believed the dog was an iminent threat to him and his wife he is justified in self defense. He is a trained police officer, and police officers are trained to shoot to kill to eliminate the threat. It’s an animal not a human. We as citizens have the right to bear arms and that means he can carry a gun. Get over it.
@ bob bartlett, shooting a gun in the air is extremely negligent and I must wonder at your mental capacity that you suggest such a thing. Bullets when fired arc, they do not travel in a straight line and what comes up will come down.
You bleeding hearts are pathetic. Look how much time you wasted on a damn dog. How about channeling this power to curing cancer, eh ?
First of all, if you’re gonna take a dog to the park, take one that isn’t aggressive or keep it on a leash. If it IS an aggressive dog, which ALL ANIMALS are instinctivley, you shouldn’t have it to begin with.
If some little mutt is gonna start biting and running at me, I would shoot it too!
Wow, so many comments from people who are victims on a daily basis, but this officer protected what was his. Good job officer.
Just another police officer, whether federal or whatever else, that shouldn’t have had his gun in a public park. He should have known the chances you take while taking pets to the park. I have dogs and they do play rough at times and I may have to break them up. Or even tried to hold him back. Maybe have kicked at Bear somewhat just to get him off of his dog. But killing is not justified at all! He should’ve left his gun in his vehicle in the first place. As for Bear-Bears family, my heart goes out to you and your pain that this has caused you.
GET A GRIP. The husky attacked and got shot. Stop whining and making a villian of the officer.
What would everybody be saying right now if Bear-Bear had killed Asia and wounded the officer? Asia was on a leash and shame on Bear-Bear’s owners for letting him run amok! That is why there are leash laws.
It seems unfair to judge the officer so harshly… if he or his dog were being attacked and his tries to get this “bear” off his dog were unsuccessful, it seems that fear for his safety would be logical.
Also, this officer is obviously a dog-lover, hence having a pet dog and taking him to the park….so it seems irrational to think he was eager to go out and shoot someone else’s pet. Quit being to quick to judge, no of us were there to see what actually happened!!
Maybe he thought the dog was drinking and driving!
Poor excuse for a cop and a human!!!
As a dog owner I was always vigilante when a new pet was entering the dog park……As usual in our society Bear-bear’s owner are taking no responsibility for their lack of action in this situation….I will tell you that if I felt that my dog or family was in danger….I would have shot him too! Bottom line – Bear-Bear attacked another dog, what next a kid?
IT’S A DOG. GET OVER IT
Where do some of you people come from. First off dogs leave puncture wounds so NO stitches would be needed. Second instead of making assumptions, “he sounds unstable”?? wait until the facts are in. Third, A man has his dog on a leash and it gets attacked. Should he let it get injured? If the dog had been seriously hurt you be all over the guy for not doing something to save his dog. I know alot of officers that carry off duty and see no problem with it. They are trained by the way. Give it a rest.
I am a former (long ago) police officer, currently sympathetic dog owner .. so to say I am conflicted, is an understatement. HOWEVER, I question the need for shooting the dog IF it is true that neither HE or HIS DOG had any bites on them? But this is looking “in retrospect” and I’m sure AT THE TIME the off duty police officer BELIEVED the other dog was an imminent danger to his dog and wife. IF that were the case, I suppose his actions were justifiable, but I am so sorry it was at the expense of the dog’s life.
Most cops I know, and there are many, love dogs except those trained by street punks to be attack dogs. Living in a rural area, the cops around here are dog owers or have lots of interaction with K-9s.
I crate my Newfoundland if a cop comes to visit, but only so she won’t drool on the officer’s uniform and stick me with the dry cleaning bill.
The state of Ohio allows concealed carry with a permit, I have one. If the off duty officer had not been an officer but still legally carrying a gun they would have gone straight to jail for illegally discharging a weapon. Drawing a weapon and killing the other dog would have been a last resort for myself. The weapon should have never been drawn. In my opinion, the 2 owners should have been able to restrain their dogs even if they were full out fighting. The dogs were too big you say? If an owner cannot restrain their dog in a situation like this, they don’t need to own it. If the officer could not handle breaking up 2 dogs (keep in mind these were pets, not fighting dogs) without fearing for his life and shooting the other dog, he doesn’t need to keep a weapon or his job. One day, it will be a human being he shoots.
When you’re out with your dog, carry pepper spray.
Not MACE, not CS tear gas (these work on humans, but not very well on animals). A burst of pepper spray in the face will send an aggressive dog running. Cops have stopped rotweillers with pepper spray.
‘Bear Guard’ (used in Alaska and other places) is effective against a grizzly bear, and is just a heavy concentration of pepper spray.
CS and pepper spray from i was trained on are the same thing.
Most of you people just don’t understand. A dog is still a wild animal and extremely unpredictable. If he is truly a federal officer then I would have to believe he is authorized to carry a weapon at all times, and most likely required to. As far as if he was out of line in shooting the dog, who really knows all of the details, but just because him, his wife or his dog didn’t have marks on them doesn’t mean you wait until someone is injured to act. I am a dog lover but if your dog were to attack my family or my dog, I gaurantee I would do everything I could to protect them. Maybe the owners of Bear-Bear should have trained their dog better to not go after other animals or don’t take him to a public park without a leash.
My daughthers dog was attacked and seriously injured at a dog park. She would have been greatly relieved to have been rescued by an off duty police officer. I personally know 6 huskys, pets of friends. ALL of them are animal aggressive. You don’t know the terror of a dog attack until it happens to you. Police officers are always on duty and thank goodness for that. Something triggered Bear and who knows what might have happened if that officer had not taken action he felt he needed too. Get real folks, we need to protect ourselves and our families, aggressive dogs do exist.
Even if “Bear Bear” was in an off-leash park, the owner must have complete control of his dog at all times. As an off-duty police officer if the officer fears he is in danger of personal injury or his wife he is justified in using force to prevent himself from physical injury.
Its interesting how the article doesn’t mention if “Asia” the dog is a service dog? I’m assuming the dog is not, or this would REALLY be a moot article.
A dog is like a family member, if someone came an attacked your family member to the point where you were worried about your well being (and potential serious injury) or the well being of the family member (and potential serious injury) would you not use force to STOP the attack?
While unfortunate as it is for “BearBear”, it is his owner’s responsibility to maintain control of the animal. In his failure to do so, this caused the PO to react to the situation. Overreaction or not is irrelavent….if the dog was under control, this incident would not have occurred…period!! To all the closet experts out there who want to skewer the cops all the time…..maybe you should walk a mile in a PO’s shoes sometime and deal with all the “turds” of society that they have to. Then maybe you will have a better under- standing of how society is shirked all personal responsibility and look to blame everyone else for their problems
The officer said that the husky was biting his dog, and then bit him. Reports clearly show that he and his dog did not have a scratch on them. The officer lied. End of story. Convict him and get him off the streets. It’s people like ‘Shepard’ (yes, that is his name) that give other respectful police officers bad names. It’s people like ‘Shepard’ that give other respectful gun owners bad names. He used poor judgement, did an awful thing, and then tried to lie his way out of it. One more thing, if the dog was shot in the rear, why did the other ‘police officers’ not let anyone near the dog for 20-30 minutes. The dogs life would have been saved had they ‘let’ someone get to the dog. So ther other officers at the scene should be charged as well, for allowing the husky to die and not allowing time to rescue the dog.
You have to understand that dogs are going to be dogs and accept this accordingly. There is no situation that ever justifies such a shooting. If a dog attacks and seriously injures your own dog, your wife, or your child, then it’s your fault for exposing them to that situation.
I’m a gun owner, with a firm belief in the right-to-carry and right-to-defend.
I’m also a dog owner, and this man’s actions (to quote you) “were impulsive and irresponsible”. Not to mention, as a LEO he should have used MUCH better discretion in reconciling the situation.
My educated guess is that this LEO has either not been a dog owner long, or has not gone to many public parks. My small dog gets aggressively “picked on” occassionally, but the scenario generally works itself out as the off-leash dogs establish their pack order.
Way to go, you trigger happy Barney Fife! Someone needs to have his badge for this.
I am an US Army vet, I have black belts in two styles of Jujutsu, I’m 6′3″ and 275 pounds. I have a CWP and carry because, even with this background, I can’t defend myself and family if there are three or more armed attackers or if there is one with a firearm.
I am big enough to pull apart a Husky and a GSD. Not everyone is. I still might get bit.
There is no indisputable information in the story about how Bear Bear approached the GSD. Tail up or down? Ears back? Slowly or at a run?
Most LEOs are required to carry a weapon off-duty, bad things happen, even in dog parks.
If your state has a castle doctrine, and you fire a weapon in the defense of your family, or friends, you won’t be charged if the attack is sufficient to fear for the life or serious injury of anyone in your party.
As far as the dog getting hit in the “rear”, there is nothing about what direction the shot came from. Standing over a dog who is biting another dog, you would aim at the back 1/2 of the attacking dog, to make sure your shot doesn’t come close to the attacked dog. I can guarantee the attacking dog is using his mouth end to attack.
Since the shooter is a Federal Officer, you don’t have to worry about the local officers going out of their way to protect him. Most LEOs will work overtime without pay to get rid of the bad apples, because they know how difficult it makes their jobs if the people can’t trust them.
In conclusion, there is not enough information in the story to justify 98% of the crap written here previously.
BTW, I own two dogs. When I say sit, they stop whatever they are doing and sit. One is a GSD / Australian Shepard mix and 71 pounds and the other is a collie / border collie mix and 68 pounds.
They will sit, on command (from anyone in my family), even when chasing squirrels in my back yard.
A voice of reason. Thank you U.S. Army vet. I’m a vet myself. Analysis of the facts and evaluating the situation is rare today.
“Every time you hear of any person or pet being shot by a cop, very rarely does it ever result in a conviction. ”
Might that be because police are trained when to shoot and when not to, so most police shootings turn out to be justified?
“This will be covered up along with all other Police misconduct.”
Umm…it’s in the media, soo……obviously it wasn’t “covered up.”
Moron.
“This is what happens when idiots are allowed to walk around with guns.”
Or dogs.
“gun toters are just scared pussies,they can’t handle life and it’s challenges like the rest of us”
Cops are scared pussies? Really? Come down to my jurisdiction. I’ll take my gun belt off just for you.
Sandy, you said it perfectly! Thank you!
“You bleeding hearts are pathetic. Look how much time you wasted on a damn dog. How about channeling this power to curing cancer, eh ?”
Nah, they believe that they have a RIGHT to someone else doing that for them.
The Off-Duty Law Enforcement Officer was totally and entirely correct in shooting the vicious dog. He is an excellent example of the value to society of having off-duty officers carry firearms. He did a major social service by shooting the Husky/Huskie/Whatever killer dog.
No More Pet Whining!!!! Thank You, Officer…………
PlanetEarth, post #27: Perfectly stated. My sentiments exactly. My personal recommendation is to stay away from dog parks entirely for a wide range of reasons, not the least of which is to avoid the uninformed public. I have yet to encounter one human at a dog park who has total control over the dog. Therefore, I will not put my voice-command and hand-signal-command trained dogs in a position to be endlessly mauled, pursued, or threatened. Furthermore, the exercise equipment is normally occupied by a row of fat, pious, imperious, omniscient, sophomoric and aggressive experts, and I cannot lead my own dog through the paces. Just don’t go there with a well-trained dog. Just don’t. Then there’s the risk of Giardia, as if the social climate is not already enough discouragement.
He should be put in jail, period. If he has kids they should be removed from the home until he is taken away in handcuffs.
Yo … planetearth as you call your self… I have a ccp too if you shot my dog I would in turn shoot you worthless face off bet on it … I’d go to jail but guess what… your family would go to your funeral … seems like a fair trade off … try that sh*t that spewed in your post and see where it gets ya buddy…
@ John: Thank you for being the voice of reason on this string.
Not saying this situation turned out good for anyone, but it could have turned out even worse. To me the saddest part is how everyone else knows better than the event participants and/or investigators. What gets me is that those who think off-duty officers should be unarmed will be the first to complain that armed police took too long to get there when called.
@ The end of Planet earth:
your comment alone shows that you are neither mature enough or responsible enough to carry a handgun. Please send your permit back to the state of issuance.
@ blue …… Hey Blue … ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒΕ
Jenna – please read over your article. You really need to watch your typos.
Dog parks are an unpredictable environment. I have a large, very submissive, boxer-lab mix (abt. 90 lbs.) He used to love the dog park. Probably would still love it if we’d let him go.
He’s been taken down by pit bulls and shepherds. The pit owners just laugh. One of them was the manager for the local PetsMart – seriously! After three times with this happening, we picked lower traffic times to take Riley to the park. On his last visit an old dog with respiratory issues approached him. His raspy breathing sounded just like the pits before they attacked. He was frightened and took a protective stance and barked at the old dog. The owner had a fit and told me to get my agressive dog out of the park.
Needless to say, I’ve never been back. Our dog park now has a seperate area for smaller dogs since a big dog attacked and killed a little chiahuahua years ago. The problem is – there’s no one in charge.
Many dog owners are bigger jerks than their dogs. Owners of aggressive breed dogs just think its funny to bring their dogs to the park, scare everybody off, and have the whole place to themselves. That’s not what I fought for our dog park for. It needs to be a safe place for friendly, well-socialized dogs.
Its time some changes occur.
Like the song goes. “You take a mortal man and put him in control. Watch him become a God, then watch the heads roll.” Its a police state now, our freedom is gone!
Thanks end… That’s what I expected.
I think your heart is in the right place, but your poker face could use some work.
Sounds like a lot of you like dogs better than cops… next time you are down a well, who do you want Lassie to run to if not the Sheriff??
OMG, I’m so upset about this! I am a frequent dog-park visitor, and it is apalling that this officer SHOT this poor dog! With all due respect to many fine police officers out there, what the heck was this one doing with a gun at a public park, anyway???? Sounds like an officer with an arrogance problem to me!
More likely the cop overeacted and killed an innocent pet, he should be fired and NEVER be allowed to ever posses a gun/weapon of any sort ever! The sick bastard.
You are a bunch of idiots. Perhaps you would have liked it better if the owner had stood by while Bear Bear ripped out his dogs neck.
All you have to do to break up a dogfight is shoot off a gun (not shoot the animal), or a blank, or anything else that makes a loud noise. The noise will startle them and they will stop. I grew up on a farm, we had dogs get in fights many times throughout the years – it never failed to work and we never had to shoot a dog.
“He should be put in jail, period. If he has kids they should be removed from the home until he is taken away in handcuffs.”
We generally only lock up people for committing crimes. Last time I checked, shooting an aggressive, uncontrolled animal when you’re in fear for your safety or the safety of another is NOT a crime.
I own a Malamute – very simliar (almost identical to a husky – not to insult either breed). They are the most non violent dogs possible – they look intimidating – but that’s about as far as it goes. It’s said you can’t even train them to be violent – probably why Michael Vick didn’t have any. They do play rough, and are very stubborn to train, and LOVE to play. The cop wasn’t a dog breed expert, I assume, so probably didn’t know this. A shame for Bear-Bear the cop was intimdated by his looks, also a shame the dog’s owners didn’t step in right away to seperate the dogs. I carry pepper spray when walking my dog (he has been attacked twice – and never fights back, but I do!) – guns are too dangerous to bystanders.
I also own a gun (several). I think everyone should own a gun – and when 50 of them see a little girl abducted by a sex offender they should be obligated to shoot the son of a b**ch. Same with any other crime. If people knew they could get killed stealing a VCR, they probably wouldn’t do it. As far as the punishment fitting the crime, don’t do the crime and you don’t have to worry about it (imagine a stockbrokers surprise getting shot for embezzling). I live in a city where it is required by city ordinance to own a firearm if you own a house (Kennesaw, GA). Guess what? Crime is almost unheard of here – just outside of Atlanta. Criminals like easy pickings and are afraid of potential victims carrying guns. If you are anti gun – don’t own one, I don’t care. Go be sheep and quit trying to take mine away using this as another excuse to trample my right by law.
Hey LIBERALS – the law allows you to excercise your CHOICE to murder an unborn fetus or not because of the inconvenience of raising a child. Keep your Roe vs. Wade. I won’t participate in it, but it is your body and your right. As far I am concerned, if you don’t want kids, don’t f**k.
The law allows me to excercise my CHOICE to carry a firearm or not. Leave my CHOICE alone! I have a gun, not because I am too much of a wussy (as some have implied gun owners are), but to ensure, without a doubt, my families safety.
“More likely the cop overeacted and killed an innocent pet, he should be fired and NEVER be allowed to ever posses a gun/weapon of any sort ever! The sick bastard.”
Were you there? Did you see the incident? Or are you just going on what you read here? If you’re making these statements that amount to accusations and a conviction without a trial, then you are about as ignorant and stupid as a person can get.
I prefer to give people the benefit of the doubt. People like you see a “poor, cute, cuddly animal” get hurt or killed and automatically demonize any person instrumental in that occurrence.
I have news for you. A dog is far more dangerous than any unarmed human will ever be.
“With all due respect to many fine police officers out there, what the heck was this one doing with a gun at a public park, anyway????”
Perhaps this cop wasn’t aware of the places that Vickie feels cops shouldn’t carry guns. Can you provide me with a list so that I don’t make the same mistake?
“They are the most non violent dogs possible – they look intimidating – but that’s about as far as it goes. ”
That’s a generalization, and may be GENERALLY true, but I have experience to the contrary. When I was a kid a friend of mine had a husky that always tried to attack me. I had to sneak up to his house and duck in quickly before the dog noticed me. Occasionally it did and I just barely made it off the property with my behind intact.
I have a male husky myself, and since he doesn’t get along with other males, I know first hand how a fight between a husky and another big dog can be. Having said that, even my not-neutered 7 year old has never, ever injured another dog. As has been stated before, dog fights are gruesome to watch, but the dogs are rarely really at it to hurt each other; it almost always is a question of establishing the pecking order.
Also, sticking your hand in the way is a great way to get bitten during a dog fight. I was bitten by a fox terrier that I mistakenly thought was being held back from leaving by my big boy (my dog was on the leash as always, the other dog off) and in fact the terrier was the one that didn’t want to just let it go.
So while I can understand that the man with his german shepherd might have been scared or surprised, and possibly frustrated that the husky didn’t immediately listen to his handler and leave the german shepherd alone (part of the difficulty with husky’s is that they are very rarely as obedient as german shepherds, for example), and while many male huskies have difficulties getting along with other males, I can’t imagine that there really was any reason to shoot the dog.
Sad, sad story. My heart goes out to the family that lost their pet.
Sadly, police shooting of dogs – not just strays or wild dogs or fighting dogs, but including harmless family pets – is more common than most people realize and would like to know.
I can easily link to probably a dozen stories in which SWAT teams or police officers shot and killed family pets in circumstances under which the dog presented no creditable threat to the officer. But in every case, the officers get off with no real punishment or repercussions. They always are found to have followed “departmental policy” or “acted appropriately for the officer’s safety.”
There even have been cases where two police officers shot a Jack Russel terrier, a dachshund and Labrador retrievers – including at least one instance in which a dog was RUNNING AWAY from the police officer who shot it. Recently there was a video on the web showing two officers shooting and killing a dog that was chained up.
It’s disgraceful, but likely will not stop until police departments start taking more responsibility for and are held accountable for the actions of its officers in wantonly killing family pets.
FoolKiller says:
Sounds like a lot of you like dogs better than cops… next time you are down a well, who do you want Lassie to run to if not the Sheriff??
Hey dumbass why would anyone want to be in a well … wow no words can counter that stupidity …
Just wanted to add to John’s reply to someone saying huskies are not aggressive dogs: I agree that that vast majority of huskies are not aggressive with people; they’ve been bred for that for hundreds of years. They make terrible guard dogs; I had a girlfriend of mine take my dog out when I was out of town once. She had seen him once before, briefly, several months before. She was surprised when she opened the door and found him just behind it waiting for her… all four paws in the air, waiting for a tummy rub.
That said, male huskies are well known for having issues getting along with other dogs, especially other males. That certainly is the case with my dog, and it’s why I don’t take him to dog parks.
So it is just possible that the husky’s owner’s brother was taking an unnecessary risk being there with the dog off leash (huskies are not well known for listening to orders, either…) and that the husky started the fight between the two dogs. I still think shooting the dog was way, way out of proportion. My dog was attacked by a pitbull as a puppy: the owner grabbed his dog, and punched it in the face until he let go of my dog. Even if I’d had a gun, I never would have shot it; that would have been completely exagerated. My dog didn’t even need stitches, which was certainly lucky.
John – your are correct, GENERALLY the breed is docile. I would imagine the clarity of the bloodline would effect the breeds temperment as well. I retract that portion of my comment.
And yes – just like all animals, they can be unpredictable – anything can set them off “personality”, especially if they feel threatened
I have been in a similar situation, and I pepper-sprayed the offending dog. (My dog – a 10 lb miniature pincer was attacked by a Rottweiler.) The pepper spray subdued the offending animal immediately, did no permanent damage to the dog, and everyone involved went on about their lives. I agree this officer went too far. When you enter an off-leash dog park, you assume risks that you wouldn’t in areas like the one where I was in the above incident where leashes are required.
I think this officer acted very responsibly and with in the spirit of the law he’s sworn to uphold. That dog should’ve been on a leash even if the park is a no leash park. Good work, Fed! Also, firing a weapon into the air is more dangerous than firing it into the dog. No telling where that bullet would come down and he may have ended up killing a person. Bottomline, if a dog attacks, it should be shot.
‘Husky owner’ says “It’s Firefighters and EMS that put themselves in danger every day for you ….. but rarely cops.” LOL Apparently you don’t live in an area where crime exists, please let me know where that is? It seems to be Jane that is the only one here that is using any sense, at least on the 1st page of comments. Most law enforcement officers are required to carry off duty weapons. And may I say that most of you that are stating that law enforcement officers are nothing more than bullies and trigger happy thugs, you probably would be screaming at the top of your lungs if an off duty officer was just standing there watching and not doing anything at all, as you and your family was being torn apart and mutilated by a bunch of mad dogs, or thugs. And this, meaning the families being torn apart and mutilated by a bunch of mad dogs, or thugs, sometimes does happen even in the safe areas my friend. So until you put yourself in the same position as the officer, don’t be too quick to judge him.
Wow, an awful lot of assuming here – The things that people are assuming against the police office (or non-police officer as the case may be) are NOT in the article – they are merely assumptions made by people who obviously do not like the police.
My sympathy for Bear-Bear and I hope that power mad “Federal Officer” loses his job over this! Remember Ruby Ridge – a “Federal Officer” shot an unarmed woman dead while the poor woman was holding a baby in her arms! Typical behavior from these gun carying cowards!!!
This is the definition of a good shooting. I am glad the dog was killed, it was a bad dog and tried to bite a human. Humans 1 Dogs 0
So you’re saying that the federal officer should have waited until the husky caused a serious injury to some person or another dog before any type of force should be used ? Are you that brainless ? First of all, the husky attacked first. And second, a federal officer is trained to use lethal force when necessary and is in a much better position to make the call of when it becomes necessary. It’s crap to take an “oh it’s so terrible” attitude when this officer did what he had to do to protect himself and his dog.
I read this in The Baltimore Sun:
Police question if officer was legally allowed to carry gun
By Jessica Anderson
The department released a redacted version of the police report of the shooting of the dog, named Bear-Bear. Department officials released a statement Friday saying that after further investigation, the officer’s “legal authority to carry a firearm became questionable.
———-
Wow! Who would have guessed!!!!
It’s all about the trigger happy lying po po!!!
Could you imagine what would happen if Letter Carriers had Concealed Weapons permits and were allowed to carry firearms Dammmmmmmmmmn
“The officer acted out of fear and with the intention of protecting his own, which I understand to a point. But he took it too far, and his actions were impulsive and irresponsible.” Excuse me,, but did you mention that you observed the sad end of Bear-Bear? No,?, so you’re assuming 2nd hand info is correct?
Bill
Dogs get in fights every day,it is natural.If people are around,they are separated,using simple techniques.This guy is a cop,his training should have given him other options in this situation.Most people don’t have to carry a gun to feel safe,only scared,frail minded individuals.I own a gun,I keep it at home.I’m from Detroit and I’m not scared,especially of someone’s pet dog.If you think this officer’s only option was to kill,you are a total MORON.
Bad Dave from Detroit (moron?) was there also:)
My comment wasn’t directed at you Bill,but to those who think this cop was justified in his actions.And the belief that someone needs to carry a gun to be “safe”.
In the State of California, Federal Officers are not Peace Officers, but are given the authority to carry firearms on duty or off duty. Look under California Penal Code 830.2. Peace Officers are allowed to carry off duty firearms anywhere in the State, unless the owners of said place where the Peace Officer is entering does not allow weapons on the premises. As a matter of fact, President Busch before leaving office signed into Federal Law in 2004 and made some ammendments to it, and Peace Officers are now allowed to carry off duty firearms anywhere in the United States, as long as they meet the criteria specified in said law. also known as H.R. 218. Find it here, http://www.leaa.org/218/218text.html The fact that some knucleheads here on this message board make statements as to why is this officer even carrying a weapon in a park for dogs or for that matter anywhere is ridiculous. Had he not been carrying his off duty weapon and some dog, or dog owner went berserk and hurt someone causing Great Bodily Injury and or Death they would of questioned that officer as to why he wasn’t carrying his off duty firearm to save a life. Also everyone needs to take control of their dogs. What don’t you understand about that. The fact that the off duty Officer entered the park with the dog on a leach was totally appropriate, for had the dog not been on a leash prior to entering, here in California he would have been in Violation of the California Leash Law, and if the owner had lost control of his dog and had the dog run away and hurt someone or just run across the street and got hit by a car it would of been his fault. No control of said animal on either side of the fence in the park or its outside perimeter is negligence on the owners part . Just like parents need to be in control of small children, so that they don’t walk over to and enter a Dog Park and get hurt by some dog off its leash whether the dog is being playful or not, is also negligence on the parents part. Dog owners need to be in contorl of their animals so that when a person enters the park they or their dog do not get attacked by some large strange dog that they know nothing about as far as behavior, and or whether the dog is being playful or not. I nor no one here were there, the officer had a right to carry an off duty firearm as long as he was following departmental regulations and met all of the criteria associated with it. It was said that he ordered the owner to take control of his dog, and whether that owner failed to do so or was just slow at it, the officers statement was that not only was he trying to protect his dog but also his family member and himself he made a judgement call and went to the next level of force under the Use Of Force Policy. People, just as some of you have stated here about dogs behavior and whether they are being playful or not, if we’re going to have Dog Parks, then maybe people need to familiarize themselves with all breeds dog behavior before entering the Dog Park, On the same token, we need to familiarize ourselves with State Law in your own State to see if you are indeed in violation of any of the laws inside or outside the Dog Park.
My condolences go out to the owners of Bear-Bear, and it is a tradgedy that I hope never happens again. Also the fact that someone here on this message board mentioned that the Officer used hollow point bullets, only tells me that whatever he was going to shoot at if he had to in which case he did, he took the precaution to protect the public by using said ammunition, and did not make the mistake of using full metal jacket bullets which have the tendency to travel thru the body and possibly causing injury to another dog or person.
I like you’all, you’all remind me of when I was Young and Stupid………
Humans are more valuable than dogs,and with so many adults and children killed and mauled by dogs,I believe the officer did the correct thing,after all,huskies pit bulls and all other breeds of dogs are just animals with the instinct to bite and are capable of attacking humans at any time. Just read the terrible news stories of dog attacks and the harm(even death)that they can do.
You can armchair quarterback this subject all day long…..
Truth is that if you were not there to observe the actual incident you really do not know exactly what and how it all transpired. Even eyewitnesses can get actual observed events mixed up and misinterpereted. I am sorry for the loss of Bear Bear’s life and would hope that if there was any wrong doing on the part of the individual whom shot him, that they will be punished appropriately. Have always believed that karma can come ’round full circle.
Chino says alot,,:) neat, minding,, advancing years & measurable intellegence don’t maintain a necessarily relative position to each other.
thanks,,
I love animals, i own , cats dogs, snakes, tarantulas, parrots, fish of all kinds etc etc etc but i want to point something out, if you own animals you have to be responsible, and no matter how much i love my pets if an agressive dog would attack mine or my wife or god forbid my children i would not think twice about killing him…
People are going off on serious tangents. This isn’t a case of rogue dogs coming into your yard and attacking you, your family, or your small dog. And everyone going gung-ho about shooting anything that so much as looks at them wrong makes a serious point for more stringent gun control laws. Many of you are basing your opinions on the tragedy of loosing a pet in the above way. This isn’t what happened here. There is absolutely no correlation. It’s an off-leash dog park. Which, for those of you that do not understand this concept, means that it is a large enclosed space where you go in, unleash your dog, and let them run and play. The dogs are SUPPOSED to be off leash. There WILL be scuffles. It’s not meant for aggressive, unsocialized dogs, though, which I have to assume is the shepherd’s case (no where does it state that he was a regular, as is the husky’s case). According to the article, the husky’s owner/uncle did nothing wrong, so stop blaming him. Nowhere does it state that the shephard’s owner called and called to him for help but he ignored him, or anything to that effect. If that were the case, yes, it would be partly his fault. If you have never been to a dog park, if your dog has never been in day care, if you do not know how to properly handle fighting dogs, or your own large dog for that matter, and if you have an aggressive dog (which would be the shepherd, shepherd lover that I am) you do not go to a dog park! Just because you have a dog does not give you automatic, unknowledgeable access. Yes, of course there are many things he should have done instead- mainly, if he thought the dogs were fighting, would have been to back off, see if they fight it out for a minute and are done, or find something to shove in between them. Or, you coordinate it with the other owner to both grab a dog by the collar at the same time. Dogs also feed off their owner. If the officer was getting fearful, his dog would have picked up on that and become the aggressor thinking he needed to protect them. The main key is he had no right or reason to shoot the dog. EVER. Or especially to bring a gun into a dog park. A couple years ago, a man slit a doberman’s throat at the dog park. No reason. Dog was well-known in the park, another very non-agressive dog. It makes me believe that these men who bring weapons to a dog park have every intention of using it THAT DAY. They leave their house NEEDING to hurt something, and they use their dogs as bait. And what’s easier than claiming self-defense against something that can’t speak, with lenient laws against such actions?
Hey Chino – very appropriate to apply a California Statute in reference to a Maryland issue. You’re obviously well educated – A theory backed up by your spelling of former President Bush. Remind you of when you WERE young and stupid? You might not be young, but you’re still stupid.
Wow, what a bunch of paranoid morons are posting here (much like the police officer in question).
Duh–have you ever SEEN a husky? They weigh about 60 pounds. Have you ever seen a German shepherd???? A husky is no fricking danger to a German shepherd, and only a complete imbecile could possibly think his GSD was in serious danger even if the husky were trying to KILL his dog. It’s like a 7th grader trying to beat up your kid who’s a senior in high school.
Only a complete fricking moron would think that because two dogs are fighting that either one of them is a threat to any human being.
Only a complete moron would think that these two dogs WERE fighting. If they had really been fighting, there would have been some damage done, and the reports indicate the only damage done to man or beast was by that cop’s bullet.
Only a complete moron would talk on this board about dogs being allowed to run loose–of COURSE they were allowed to run loose, they were in a G-D DOG PARK. For those who are too stupid to know what a dog park is, go look it up before shooting off your mouth.
Likewise morons who are saying the cop was just being responsible by keeping his dog on a leash–again, have you been to a dog park? Most dog parks have a double-gate. You go in the first one, you unhook your dog’s leash, and you open the second one to let him in the park. Many dog parks even have rules posted that include the rule, “DON’T BRING YOUR DOG IN HERE ON A LEASH.”
This cop sounds like a typical dilletante dog park user who’s pretty much an idiot, but also he happened to be incredibly insecure and unfortunately packing a gun.
I am the owner of a big hairy dog. Not as big or as hairy as a GSD. Smaller dogs get in his face occasionally (they all like to challenge a bigger dog), and I not only don’t shoot them, I don’t give a crap at all, because first of all they are usually not fighting, they are usually either playing or just being obnoxious, and second of all, I know they can’t hurt my dog. He’s way bigger than they are and his coat is too thick for their teeth to get to him in any significant way. And third of all, my dog will get the hell away from a dog that’s being aggressive toward him.
There is no way a husky could seriously hurt my dog, and a GSD is bigger and has a thicker coat than my dog. That cop is a complete idiot.
But if I did stick my hand into a dog fight, I would not be so f—ing stupid or more likely disingenuous as to claim that the dog was “attacking” me, much less my f—ing family, who’s not even within reach of the dog. That’s like deliberately stepping in front of a bus and then complaining that the bus hit you. What a freaking imbecile.
Once my dog was attacked by a pit, who rolled him and had him by the throat. Yeah, I was definitely concerned and I definitely intervened–by pulling the fricking pit off my dog, not by shooting it with a hollow-point bullet. I’m a 5′6″ female. If I can get a pit with its jaws around my dog’s throat off my fricking dog without hurting a hair on the pit’s head, then a big manly cop certainly could get a fricking HUSKY off his German Shepherd. And by the way, my dog had some bites on his skull (where his hair is thinner) but they didn’t require any medical attention and his throat didn’t have a scratch on it.
This cop is a joke.
And last but absolutely not least–there is no f—ing excuse in the world for discharging a firearm in a public place unless that dog was literally trying to tear your toddler to pieces.
No, wait, what’s really last is this: HOLLOW POINT BULLETS?!?!?!?! Yeah, you definitely want to have a handgun loaded up with hollow-points on you at all times. You just never know when you might need to blow a guy’s internal organs to smithereens in addition to just killing him. Or even moreso, a dog, who might be hurting your delicate, defenseless German Shepherd.
This guy is an absolute loose cannon psycho who should not even be out on the street at all, much less carrying a firearm. What a complete loser.
If I were his wife, I’d consider this psycho, dangerous behavior good reason to seriously consider divorce, especially since their are children involved.
I’ve been in the same position as that officer when my gentle German Shepherd was attacked by 2 Japanese Akitas, he was on the lead in a forest walk with me when the Akiitas attacked I feared for my dog and myself. The irresponsible owner was no where in sight when the attack started, my dog was pinned to the ground while I kicked at the Akitas if I’d had a gun that day I’d have shot both Akitas. The owner turned up and called his dogs off which ironically seemed well trained. He walked away while I tended my dog only when I got home did I discover the puncture marks on my dogs neck and back. The officer was correct in what he did and people should get over the emotion of a dead dangerous out of control dog. The owners of bear bear are the reason their dog got shot.
It kills me to know the public I serve are so quick to make such silly and ignorant comments..”I feel sorry for his wife. I really do. He seems very unstable.” He seems unstable to you? Based on what? The article which just might happen to be biased?
“My man concern is he had NO problem shotting a dog in public. Why did he even have is gun on him if he was OFF duty” Really? Have you ever arrested violent criminals that you just might come across in your public life? Also try googling HR 218.
“If it was you or me that would have shot the dog we would be in JAIL for firing a gun in publin” Nope, at least not in my state, if you are legaly carrying a weapon and it is shown you werent being negligent (which negligence is NOT documented in the article) you should be just jim dandy.
“I’ve been bitten by dogs, my wife has been bitten by our neighbors dog, twice. Does that give me the right to go ove rthere and kill their dog?” depending on the situation yes in fact you may have the right and justification to use deadly force.
“If it were two ppl fighting would he have shot one to break up the fight?” Yeah thats a bit of a reach, not even a valid comparison. Sorry but a dog is considered a possession, not on par with human life..
“I think someone should have shot the police officer out of fear that he was going crazy and shooting at a public park.” So far the most ridiculous comment- you win the prize..if it was clear he was a threat sure go ahead, but does the article say anything about multiple shots? or that the officer was threatening another human? Nope sure doesn’t…dont think anyone could artiulate how shooting the HUMAN was justified..
“I’m pulling for him to lose his job and pay damages to the owners.” Uhhh…for legaly taking action?? What would you base him losing his job or being civily liable? I cant hardly make sense of this comment…wait it’s because it doesnt make sense..also maybe he could sue the owner/person in control of “Bear Bear”
“Dogs are like 3 year olds” yes 60 lb. cute little toddlers…with teeth, tremendous bite strength and the ability to maim..
“I should be able to go to a dog park without fearing about a nut case with a loaded weapon.” And the officer in question might would reply “‘I should be able to go to the dog park without fearing about a husky who’s owner isnt controlling him’”
the pig must die says:
wendy…please go play in traffic. all the nra fans please clean your guns while they are loaded. too bad the cop just didn’t kill himself years ago. ..Seriously? I dont think I need to offfer any commentary here..stupidity speaks for itself..
“Its a police state now, our freedom is gone!” why because he acted in a legal manner? what about his officer to not have a dog jump/his dog? HIS FREEDOM IS GONE OHNOES
Anyway im getting bored, But just a bit more..I, as you might have guessed by my posting, am a sworn law enforcement officer. I am in noway advocating the action taken by the officer in question, simply questioning some of the ignorant and/or plain stupid posts. The thing is in this instance, there is nowhere close to enough information contained in this article to make any sort of determination of whether the officer acted in an appropriate manner or not. Based off the information given would I have shot the dog? Don’t know, wasn’t there, I am ignorant to many of the needed facts, just like everyone else here. Good Day.
My deepest condolences to Bear’s family. You would think that an officer with something between his ears would have carried Dog Halt spray knowing this can happen anytime, anywhere when walking your dog. There is also Citronella dog spray one can purchase now which is suppose to be very effective. How many dogs does this idiot meet in the line of duty every day? You would think that in his line of work he would have know better and been prepared as a responsible dog owner. But why worry, he knew he could use his gun.
I don’t go to dog parks because I don’t want my dogs exposed to free roaming pets. There are plenty of places one can walk one’s dog on a leash without bring them to a dog park.
Most police officers are decent people.
I would not care to have this one on our police force if his gun is his first line of defense. What is wrong with his aim? He shot to kill and this man should not be allowed to carry a weapon. Are your kids safe with him packing his pistol? Personally, I think he needs help before he shoots another human being. I would expect an officer to be better prepared to deal with problems in the community on or off duty.
Does you mail person pack a pistol to deal with dogs? They carry dog spray.
This guy knows better but just did not care. He is a pathetic excuse for police force.
Cops are nothing more than a bunch of people that got beat up in school and now have guns. I HATE LOSER COPS.
You know everyone thinks what their dog is doing is cute. As a pet owner and animal lover its NOT cute. If an animal appears to be out control then its probably out of control. Just because your dog NEVER bit YOU doesn’t mean it wont attack a stranger. Why does this concept seem to fail MOST dog owners. Your dog is an animal and don’t you know what might set him/her off unless the dog told you!!
FIRST OFF, It was a federal officer, NOT a police officer.
so stop with the Trigger happy Police Bull. yes there is a difference.
this is not dog lovers comments, it is a Police Bashing comment….typical, everyone knows exactley what happened and as usual gotta spout off at the mouth about the incident .
put your feet in the other shoe…if you were with your wife/husband walking your dog and this happened,what would YOU do, hug and kiss the other dog and wait for the dogs owner to arrive while letting your own pet be mauled ?? shut up and read and learn the facts before shooting your mouth off about things you now nothing about.
What he should have done was let the shepard go and let them have at it if they were really fighting. A shepard and husky are evenly matched.
if the dog was so out of control shooting the dog is not the answer. if for some ignorant reason a gun had to be pulled out for “protection”, shooting the gointed at the ground is the answer to all this. the big bang would have scared the dog and the “dogfight” is over. to shoot the dog is insane. what would the officer have done if he responded to a school fight between 2 girls pulling each others hair out? shoot one of them?
i believe in, due unto others as you would have them do unto you…..i say, take the officer someplace and shoot him. im not advocating murder, just let feel some of the pain he caused.
if the dog was so out of control shooting the dog is not the answer. if for some ignorant reason a gun had to be used for “protection”, shooting the gun pointed at the ground is the answer to all this. the big bang would have scared the dog and the “dogfight” is over. to shoot the dog is insane. what would the officer have done if he responded to a school fight between 2 girls pulling each others hair out? shoot one of them?
i believe in, do unto others as you would have them do unto you…..i say, take the officer someplace and shoot him. im not advocating murder, just let feel some of the pain he caused.
If another dog attacks my dog, I’d put it down in a heartbeat!
An AGGRESSIVE dog got put down. GOOD RIDDANCE!!!
i stand behind the officier who shot the husky. dont get me wrong, i am an animal lover. i have seen dogs fight that have got along together before. sometimes they reach a point of aggressiveness and something has to be done to stop it.that officier was only protecting himself , his wife and his dog.the shepard was still on a leash, so therfore the husky was definately the aggressive one.
I had a black lab that tried to rip apart a dog much bigger than himself, and 1 he always played with. needless to say, i had to put him down because he started getting mean to my grand children. i had him when he was 8 wks old. he was 6yrs. old when he was put down. it can happen to anyones dog.safety first.
How can this writer sit in judgement and second-guess a federal officer? Has this writer ever been BIT by a dog of this size? I seriously doubt it, or she would’ve mentioned this in her article.
I have been bitten all over my body by a 65-lb American Pit Bull Terrier and had to get him off of me. It was NOT easy; I’m considered to be quite strong for my age (69).
My point is this, how can humaniacs sit in judgement of others when they haven’t “Been there, done that?” In defense of the officer, perhaps he DID feel threatened to use his firearm. Maybe it was OVER THE TOP, using excessive force. But if you’ve ever been bitten, you can share this officer’s dilemna.
I hope this officer would at least make an effort to buy them another puppy of their choice; that would be the right and PROFESSIONAL thing to do, showing alot of empathy and class!
fire the gun in the air? seriously? what if that bullet then comes down and kills a human? think before you post….
It seems the officer was ignorant of dog behavior in general. Dogs on-leash often act differently than when they’re off-leash. They do not have the ability to defend themselves as well when tethered to a person and therefore react more defensively. They can also be more protective of the owner. This is not at all unusual behavior – and most people know this…especially dog owners and extra especially owners of a GSD. The dog should NOT have been on his leash in a dog park. Beyond that, dogs can (and do) play rough at times and they can fight. Duh. Under the circumstances, to have shot that dog at a door park was unconscionable. It does seem to have been an irresponsible, emotion-driven act. Not the sort of person I’d want as a police officer. I generally have great respect for police officers but sometimes that respect is not deserved and this is one such case.
We weren’t there we don’t know what happened. Things can get out of hand in seconds…..don’t judge, I’m not sure what I would have done in the situation…….
I have been reading the comments and first of all those of you that say the owner should have had control of Bear Bear, they were at an unleash dog park. No one has full control over a child’s behavior must less a dog. You can teach and train good behavior, but you do not have full control over their minds. I have seen children do exactly what I just told them not to do. Now you tell me how can you have full control over a dog’s mind. I believe that, if you take your dog to a dog park, you are putting your dog at risk of being attacked or even being the attacker. I have seen the calmest dogs attack another dog, however mostly over food. I worked in a kennel for many years and I would never let the dogs interact with one another until I knew how they react with other dogs. I believe you should not take your dog to a dog park until you have tested their behavior with other dogs around them. That way you will know if your dog is capable of going to a dog park. There were several ways that those dogs could have been broken apart without shooting that dog. Police do bully people and this guy fits into that catagory in my book. He should have to pay for Bear Bear, although, no amount of money can replace the pain that his owners are going through because they lost a family member. My dogs are like my children and if something happens to them, I mourn them like I would if I lost a child. Also, I am sure that if that man had let go of his dog, that german shepard would have held her own. Another point I have to make is that Bear Bear sounds like a boy name and Asia sounds like a girl name. I don’t know what the sex of these dogs are, but if this is the case, I really don’t think they would fight unless they are fighting dogs in the first place. Usually it would be two males or two females fighting but rarely male to female. My heart goes out to Bear Bear’s owners. Don’t just let this go, because it sounds like the other officers that showed up helped with the dogs death. They wouldn’t let anyone care for Bear Bear. He probably died from bleeding out, when if he was allowed help, it might would have saved his life. Who knows, he wasn’t given the chance to live.
Check out the interview with the owners http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/news/local/family-talks-about-shooting-of-dog-by-officer-080510
Also remember the police had closed the case until there was a public outcry and it was discovered there were witnesses. Children playing close by had witnessed the incident.
tHE COP SHOULD HAVE USED BETTER JUDGMENT. THERE MUST HAVE BEEN A BETTER SAFER SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM. THE COP SOUNDS LIKE A GUN NUT TO ME.
as usual, if you dress in blue, it doesn’t matter what you do. The case will probably be dropped. Have you ever seen a case, where they say it wasn’t justfied? I haven’t . Iam really tired of these gun carrying public servants walking around shooting, at will. Do these small town cops have any training at all? I feel so sorry for Bear-Bears people. This should never have happened.
planet earth, I couldn’t have said it better myself.
The teeth of dogs are lethal weapons. When dogs use them against people or other animals they have to be stopped. Sometimes with lethal force. Perhaps some of you remember the woman who was killed in the corridor outside her apartment by a dog who attacked her. Didn’t see much sympathy here for the injured dog only for the dog that did the injuring. Typical blame the victim or in this case his owner syndrome.
I think many pepole here are missing some key phrases from this article first that there were no other witness so I would like to know how all of you suddely know what hapend and whether or not is was appropriate for him to shoot the dog. While there may be the rare case of an office who thinks he is above the law and protects his own first. Most are very hard working, honest people, highly trained in when to use deadly force. I hate how so many quickly jump to stereotypes of the trigger happy cop. I can not think of any reason you would not take your dog away from a man with a gun, except that you can not control them enough to do so.
Cops can kil people and not be taken to task. A dog? Never.
None of you were there.
None of you saw what happened.
I didn’t either, but at least I recognize this.
I’m really sick of hearing about our so called “trained” law enforcement officers shooting their guns for next to no reason at all except to pretend their power and authority.
There is another cop in trouble in California for assault inside a dog park. In that case, the off duty cop didn’t shoot the other dog owner, but punched the woman directly in the face. Zero reason for these psycho cops to be kept on the job.
You know what the next line by the cops always is:
“the officer is on PAID administrative leave until the incident is investigated.” Such B.S.
And, there is yet another case in California that has been “under investigation” for nearly a year. The off duty cop decided to shoot his weapon into the air (a felony for anyone else) as “warning shots” to an “unruly crowd.” Yep. The off duty cop decided to play cowboy and shot real bullets over the heads of innocent, unarmed people. Again, he’s been on “PAID” admin leave for nearly a year.
Modern day cops are such liars and thugs.
Cops are such thugs.
I love dogs, but some dog owners lack respect for the rights of other dog owners or people without dogs. I was attack twice within the last two weeks by a pitbull in the area of my office. Sad thing is the owner of the pitbull also owns an office next door to mine and in both instances he tried calling his dog back to no avail. Fortunately I had something in my hand to ward off the dog in both instances and he did not bite me. The owner said he is only a puppy and he would not not bite me, but his dog is obviously untrain as he does not respond to his owners call. I reported this to the local police, but of course as usual they more reactive that proactive in their response. I am sorry for the lost of this owners dog, but unless there is other witnesses, we should not convict the train officer without due process.
what a moron! i am so sick of pistol happy cops (off duty or not) using a gun to solve any problem. This wasn’t even a problem…anyone knows you don’t get in the middle of dogs fighting, and most importantly, you don’t keep a dog on a leash at an off the leash park…the leash creates the problem. had they all been off the leash this probably wouldn’t have happened, and there are certainly other things he could have done besides shooting the dog. he should be punished to the fullest extent of the law, which sadly, for animals, isn’t much.
If a dog began to attack me and my family, you can be guaranteed that i would defend myself
Oh another REAL BRAVE SOLDIER,DISCHARGING a firearm and Killin in PUBLIC…WOW WHAT A BRAVE MAN…REAL TOUGHGUY
There are some real idiots making posts here. Maybe you should control your dog so it wouldn’t end that way. I guess he’s supposed to wait until his dog is dead to shoot. Better yet, why don’t all cops stop carrying off duty so when you are a victim of a crime they can just walk away and let it happen. Never ceases to amaze me how people in this country get dumber and dumber. And BTW law enforcement is authorized to carry off duty in all 50 states by federal law.
Anyone familiar with Huskies will know that about the time they get to be 3 years old, especially if intact, they will begin to show some signs of aggression toward other male dogs. That is a natural occurrence and also another good reason to have your pets spayed or neutered. But it also does not mean that the animal will continue to be aggressive. It is something common among dogs in general. It is a pack mentality and the owners must remain the top Alpha in any pack to remain in controll. No one but the owner, who the dog respects, should be allowed to take the pet anywhere as the pet won’t listen as well if at all. This comes from the experience of 2 people who have owned huskies. Remember to always, for your safety & anyone elses, read up on any and all breeds you may be thinking of getting so you have an idea what to expect from the breed (s).
Typical macho cop! Of course he would pack a gun at a dog park…. just like all of the other owners.. right?? Wrong! Every day you pick up the paper and read about cops beating someone up and shooting anything that moves. They are scary and I would never want to be married to one for sure! Trigger happy idiot. On the other hand – the owenr of Bear, if the article is correct, the owners of Bear should have responded more quickly. Hope the prosecutor’s resolve the case in a timely manner.
As unfortunate as it is that a dog had to be shot, it does not merit as much energy as is being put into correcting this ” injustice ”.It’s just a dog, people ! Kids in our own, supposedly rich, country have no future due to neglect, illness and lack of opportunity .And yet here we are, organizing protests, fund-raisers, etc… for a dead dog!
Again, it’s sad for the owners, but it’s ONLY A DOG !!!
Use your anger and do something useful: raise funds for under-privileged children’s breakfast-lunch programs, help the elderly or in some way make the world a better place for your fellow HUMANS in need.
But I guess the humans are not as cute and cuddly( and non-judgemental ) as Fifi or Bear-bear.
So sad.
WOW ! what a chicken cop shoot a dog rather than attempt to separate the dogs with the help of Bear-Bears guardian.I am a female who has a preference for the Pitbull, & when i was in my 20’s my Pit & my brothers pit got into a fight. It was scary. but the love we had for our dogs compelled us to break up the fight without hurting our loved ones. We put ourselves in harms way & yet neither one of us was in the line of work where being brave is required for the job of Cop. This cop…was afraid for his safety as well as his wifes…common sense would bring to mind best & worst case scenarios of going to a dog park where strange dogs out of ones control are present….when i had my Pit, there is no way i would take a chance of going to a dog park because despite the best training, they are after all just animals….unpredictable. This sorry excuse for a Police Officer should just stay at home where he is safe, & in return the public is safe. God knows the truth & i have faith that Keith Shephard will suffer the consequences of his actions.
My heart goes out to the family of Bear-Bear. Please try to have a great week.
dirty bacon loving pig, he will get his own and get shot by a crack head one day
Less than four days ago, my dog was attacked by a larger, more aggressive dog while I was taking him for a morning walk. My dog was on a leash, we were on a public sidewalk and doing absolutey nothing wrong when this incident occurred. Guess what?…I am retired law enforcement and I always pack a firearm!!! After pulling my dog away and kicking the attacking dog off of my dog several times, we found ourselves in the middle of the street (that is a place where cars drive and sometimes run over people and dogs). By this time, I had enough. The aggressor dog was still circling and coming at my dog. I PULLED MY SEMI-AUTO PISTOL AND POINTED IT DIRECTLY AT THE AGGRESSOR DOG. SCREW that dog, SCREW its owner and SCREW anyone who doesn’t agree with what I did! I can’t believe the number of people who say the off-duty officer was wrong! You must be the same tree-hugging, liberal, birkenstock wearing wimps who evidently like being victims and think self-defense and self-reliance is some sort of illegal behavior!!! Where is your common sense? PS: I did not have to shoot the aggressor dog and the only injury was to my dog. Hope that some of you idiots feel better.
I am a dog lover and have many dogs. However, if a dog was ever aggressive to my dog I would NEVER think about shooting them; many other ways are available to stop a dog fight. What kind of “off duty officer” or anyone else carries a gun to a dog park…I mean really??? This man needs to be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Today, while at the dog beach, a few dog owners and me were talking about aggressive dogs and not one of us said…”well, just shoot them!” Some people are unbelievable!! Maybe someone has a video, maybe there is more to the story???
Just seems we are hearing of more and more “Officers of the LAW” shooting first because of FEAR . Saddens me that a poor animal that was playing was killed due to a trigger happy macho man with a gun and a badge . There seems to be a lack of mental instability in too many people with a badge and this scares me more than the criminal element in the world .
We must insist that there be a better thorough screening of any all law enforcement officers . If there is fear or stress , take their gun away and release them from the force .
I also had a similar incident almost 2 years ago. My 2 dogs , ( one a puppy i rescued from the poung ) about 4 months old and my airedale terrier both got out of the yard and were playing roughly with a pitbull being walked by a young girl. The short end of it , after about 15 minutes a part time police officer arrived on the scene and jumped from his car , kicked my dog then proceeded to pull his revolver and shoot my airedale. ( witness’s ) . After a cpl months of vet visits and he was declared healed , i approached my borough hall asking to be re-imbured for my accrued medical bills because the officer used excessive force. Well , this was the first that they or anybody else in the borough were informed and they said they would look into it. Low and behold , the very next day i rec’d a citation in the mail for my dogs not being properly restrained , the next days mail i was summoned to court because i owned a viscious dog. ( Co-incidence ? lol , i think not ! ) . Not only did this officer shoot my dog , but it was in a residential neighborhood with many children living on the street. The bullet never ricochet off the sidewalk never to be found. I did go to court armed with a petition from all my neighbors that know the dog to be a gentle animal and charges were dropped , other then paying a fine for my dogs getting out of the yard. BTW , so called viscious attack went on for 15 to 20 minutes and the only one that gave blood was the airedale. no others were so much as scratched.
This should be a warning to all dog owners. Let your dog run wild at its peril. I have been accosted by dogs while walking on trails often. And it is the same stupid response by the owner. “My dog has never done that before.” I even had one owner say that to me two days in a row. I explained that stupid comment only works once. I have felt threatened by a dog on more than one occasion, including with my children. It is the owners responsibility to keep the dog under control. I have hit a dog with a stick. I haven’t had to use my firearm yet. If your dog is near to me and and my children, and acting aggressive and close enough that I can hit it with a stick, you are not keeping it under control. Keep your dog away from me and my children.
Then you won’t need to worry about it. I am so sick of dog owners who all think they have Lassie and they actually have Cujo. And yes, I am a dog owner and lover. Have been my whole life. It is stupid owners I don’t care for. It is a shame that it is their dog that pays the consequences.
Bill
This sick person has to be FIRE from his job and trown in jail. You dare he do this? this is what is call abusing power….I hope he pays for this insane act…. I have nothing but disgust for people like him. Bastard!
Wow, talk about riling up the dog nuts. If I felt I, or another human being, was in imminent danger from a large dog, I’d likely shoot it as well. Sorry it had to happen but many irresponsible or lazy people should not own dogs. Funny they seem to gravitate toward the larger more aggressive breeds.
I should of known, starting with Jenna the writer of the article, and the many Females here on this message board, They’re all pissed off because a Cop shot a Dog. Lucky for y’all Girls he didn’t shoot you instead, because you know you’re probably the kind that when walking your dogs, we all have to ask ourselves ” Which One’s The Dog” So I understand your fear of cops. The guys and notice I didn’t say Men who take pleasure in talking Wack about cops, on the other hand, were probably arrested at some point in thier lives, and probably got their asses kicked in the process by some Cop, and now they’ve found a forum to release their stress hiding behind a computer monitor and are looking for sympathy for themselves. Sorry Dudes, suck it up, now I know why you didn’t make it on to the Police Force. I ain’t mad at you. “That’s life in the Canine World”. That’s why someone came up with the words It’s a Dog Eat Dog World. Stop trying to make Browny Points with the girls here, by being so sensitive and sympathetic. We know you ain’t. Today we lost men and women in Iraq and Afghanistan, and ten times that amount on the streets of our country, due to the Drunkin Driver and the Criminal Element and what surpassed all those deaths were the abortions going on in this country oh my, Ten Fold. Bear Bear was a loss, but we all lost more than Bear Bear today. Prioritize your Sympathies and your pay attention to the above and hope that when you become a victim of crime, or attack by some strange animal, there’ll be an off duty Cop there to put his/her life on the line for you, no matter what nationality you are, on or off duty. So go and do something about it, don’t just sit there on your Fat Asses go and make it a productive day or week, the Humans are depending on you. The figures don’t lie………..Cops and Military personell will always be my Heroes, and the Females in those positions will always be my She-roes. BOW -WOW…………….”So, how’s that for putting people down, get pissed off, and especially at me. but go do something that’ll impact the lives of people”, and do it in such a pissed off way that you’ll get everyone’s attention, Bear Bear will Love you for that. R.I.P. Bear Bear, you won’t be forgotten, you died for a reason and look at all the people in this Forum from all over that didn’t know you and how they came here to leave condolenses and talk about your death. You touched us all……………Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Chino you must be a fighting dog owner you figure if they loose you have lost money then they must die
1) The fact that the officer had a dog himself would indicate that he was a dog lover himself. It would follow that he would hardly be “trigger happy” and all too eager to kill a dog (in a public place, no less) unless he genuinely feared for himself or others.
2) To those who say he overreacted, exactly how injured should a person allow himself to get before he defends himself? The officer articulated that the dog made as if to bite him while in the act of attacking his own pet. One needn’t be in fear of one’s life, only for one’s personal safety (in this neck of the woods, it’s “immenent fear of serious bodily injury”). Maybe some of you should do an online search for photos of dogbites or talk to an ER doc about them.
3) The ignorance being flaunted on the board is staggering, but the prejudice being displayed (cops are this, cops are that, etc) is typical. Similar comments made about, say, an ethnic group or a specific gender would not be tolerated. On the other hand, everyone who’s ever gotten a speeding ticket now feels it’s OK to sound off and get back at those mean bullies who actually had the gall to make you account for your own behavior.
1 may have questioned him being a dog lover but for one do not have that same idea.
2he did over react he could have kicked the dog hit the dog ontop of the head something to show he was in control not the dog as a dog owner and lover i trained my dog to defend my house and family and i do not take him to a park it is true dogs can get agressive and not listen but there was other things he could have done he lied which is in the report no injuries to him his family or his dog.
3 i will talk bad about an officer i have one who came to my house and pulled his weapon on me and i was watching t.v. and was doing nothing there are cops who think they are above the law just ask the lady who was hit in her car by an officer who claimed he was on a call record showed he wasn’t but he never served time in jail, lost his job and never paid for damage he did to her car he is now a captain at the lawenforcement agency and has not even said he was sorry and i have never been arrested
Fire the moron… then sue him for gross stupidity. Next!
My condolences to Bear Bear’s family. This cop sounds like someone who shouldn’t have been at the off leash dog park because he know NOTHING about dog behavior.
First, why have his dog on a leash at the off-leash dog park. Sounds like this cop, his wife, and most likely his dog are a little fearful of the big dogs that would naturally be playing there. Or, his dog is aggressive and he was afraid to let it go free. Either way, the interaction between dogs would have been completely different if this moron didn’t have his dog on a leash in an off-leash park.
Second, my dog is half husky. So many people mistakenly identify huskies as being wolf hybrids and are unnaturally afraid of them…would the cop have shot Bear Bear if he were a German Shepherd?
This moron should be completely tossed in the slammer. Sure, sounds like he just has no idea about dogs and certainly shouldn’t own a large fearful dog. However, he SHOT the other dog because he was completely ignorant of the situation and the behavior that the dogs were exhibiting. If you’re going to own a dog (especially a big dog) do some freakin research.
too bad that there aren’t doggie Tasers.
If I’m walking my beloved ( & SO cute) dog & it gets attacked, then the vicious attacker goes after me & then my dog again… – you haev got to believe that there will be consequencies. And, if I can help it, it won’t be me or my dog who goes to the hospital.
The nitwit’s dog showed NO injuries. Nitwit and his wife? No injuries, not even a scratch. The dead dog? NO injuries (other than a bullet in his butt).
That must have been some vicious attack…
Shooting the dog shouldn’t have been an option, but the dog owner is always responsiblle for his dog’s actions at all times, the off duty officer would have probably shot the husky if he was attacking you.
Let’s hope a child never aggressively approaches a child of his and pushes him/or her down.
BAM!
You people are so ridiculous and full of it.
This is pretty simple, this man and his pet were attacked by a dog. The owner of the dog clearly could not control him. The officer shot and killed the dog. End of story.
Comparing that to shooting a child is just idiotic. You people are so out of your freaking minds.
Yeah sure, that dog prolly wouldnt have killed anyone, but it sure as heck coulda mauled someone. Dogs are great, I have three. But if my dog attacked someone elses dog, and than tried to attack the owner and it was shot. Than that is on me as an owner.
Carrying a firearm in a dog park is hardly an illegal action. This is a federal officer. Get some perspective.
Just ANOTHER example of a TRIGGER HAPPY officer who just first and asks questions later even when OFF DUTY and this was someone’s pet. What a JERK.
I TOTALLY agree with Commente #242: I DEFINITELY would keep ANY child or ADULT away from this trigger happy officer.
Opinions on all sides are fine, but keep in mind some facts that keep getting overlooked: 1. no humans were bit in any way. 2. no dogs were bit in any way. 3. the dogs were in a dog park, meant for dogs to interact in doggy style.
“I have been in a similar situation, and I pepper-sprayed the offending dog. (My dog – a 10 lb miniature pincer was attacked by a Rottweiler.) ”
Cops carry a variety of things on-duty…gun, knives, pepper-spray, taser, baton, handcuffs, even nunchaku.
Off-duty, a cop usually only carries his gun, and perhaps handcuffs.
“Could you imagine what would happen if Letter Carriers had Concealed Weapons permits and were allowed to carry firearms Dammmmmmmmmmn”
I’m not aware that letter carriers were disallowed from getting concealed carry permits.
“Dogs get in fights every day,it is natural.If people are around,they are separated,using simple techniques.”
There is no “simple technique.” You don’t touch a dog in a fight, period. Anyone who thinks otherwise is a fool.
“Duh–have you ever SEEN a husky? They weigh about 60 pounds.”
About 20 pounds heavier than the average wolverine, 30 pounds heavier than the average badger, and 59.9999 pounds heavier than a funnel-web spider. Size isn’t really an indication of dangerousness.
“Only a complete moron would talk on this board about dogs being allowed to run loose–of COURSE they were allowed to run loose, they were in a G-D DOG PARK.”
Yes, they were in a dog park. A dog park is for dogs who get along with other dogs to run loose. Kids fight too, and schools are for kids, but that doesn’t excuse kids who fight in school.
“And last but absolutely not least–there is no f—ing excuse in the world for discharging a firearm in a public place unless that dog was literally trying to tear your toddler to pieces.”
When you go through law enforcement use-of-force training, then you might be qualified to comment on that. Until then, YOU’RE the moron, talking about things you have no clue about.
“Cops are nothing more than a bunch of people that got beat up in school and now have guns. I HATE LOSER COPS.”
I’m sorry that you’ve had bad experiences. What were you arrested for?
There was a similar incident here in Ohio a year or so ago. Two men were walking their dogs in a local park. One dog was off-leash (illegal in that location) and the other was on-leash. The off-leash dog attacked the on-leash dog. The owner of the on-leash dog tried to stop the altercation and could not. He was legally carrying a weapon under conceal-carry, and shot and killed the off-leash dog. After investigation, the shooter was not charged with a crime. The person whose dog was off-leash and out of control was charged with having a viscious dog.
I personally got between my dog and another dog in a fight recently, in my own neighborhood. My dog was on-leash; the other dog burst through its front door, charged across the street, and attacked us (second time this had happened in two weeks.) My dog was all bit up, and my hand was broken so that I needed two surgeries, 7 weeks total in a cast containing all my fingers, and another month-plus of therapy. Let me tell you, had I had concealed carry I would have shot that dog, especially since it had been the second time it had attacked us.
“fire the gun in the air? seriously? what if that bullet then comes down and kills a human? think before you post….”
It’s not a wise thing to do, for sure, but a bullet has lost its muzzle energy when it stops rising and starts falling. Depending on the gun, a bullet directly fighting gravity probably won’t go higher than several hundred feet in the air and will not have reached terminal velocity of about 300 fps (the firing velocity of a bb is about 350 fps) by the time it returns to earth. Enough to sting, for sure, but not kill.
Oh please… there’s something WRONG with this guy. It’s that simple.
He had NO business in the dog park at all..much less owning a dog larger than a yorkie.
Steven is right… let’s hope he doesnt’ decide to reproduce and then take his child to day care.
“”When you go through law enforcement use-of-force training, then you might be qualified to comment on that”"
Law enforcement “Use of force training”? LOL How about “Managing 3 yr olds Training”. That would have more appropos to the situation than use-of-force training.
Unless of course Bear-Bear turns out to have been a heavily armed terrorist in a dog costume.
Good GOD!
When is the lst time that the shooting of A HUMAN BEING got this many comments?
I’m sure there are a million places to comment on the shooting of a “HUMAN BEING” …. why don’t you find one?
Of course it was just and correct! The one uncontrolled dog was violent and needed to be better handled by its owner. Such arrogance of dog owners disgusts me and I have seen it repeatedly. It is unfortunate that it had to end in this manner, however it was perfectly legal, and the safe and sane response of a trained gun handler took care of the violent out-of-control and vicious dog! End of story. Logical, simple. safe and sane!
First off we all need to step back and take a look at the history of a pure breed Huskie or Alaskan Malamute. These dogs were breed for their gentle nature. (ever heard of a 3 dog night? It means that 3 dog slept with their owner.) Now beleive you me. I wouldn’t sleep with a nasty dog! Now let’s step ahead to pre WWII. The Armed Forces tried to train Northern breeds for guard dog purposes. All they acheived was a dog who led the enemy through the mine fielf and them begged for their treat. Now I step ahead to my own personal experiance. I had a Malamute and my neighbor has two huskies. They used to play together ( never a bite or blood drawn). But to listen to them play, one would swear they were in a death match. They made quite a ruckus. But my neighbor or I could step in the middle of their play and never get bitten. I would bet $100.00 that the idiot FED mistook playful talking (yes, they do talk) and baring teeth for agressive behavior and freaked out. According to statistics, more bites are from his beloved shepard than from Huskies. He can be glad he wasn’t in Alaska and shot a sled dog. He’d be dead before his gun stopped smoking
He got it wrong.
He should have shot the owner.
Problem dogs are a refection of poor owners.
There are too many of these type of stories in the news in recent years. The cops are just trigger happy bullies looking for any opportunity to use their weapon. What happens when they finally use it on a person instead of a dog!
it’s a shame some scared little people need to carry guns to feel safe in a world we all live in,especially an off duty officer-pathetic
You’ve got to be kidding me! No one who has commented or written anything about this saw it happen and yet they are all ready to hang this guy. I think the guys quick thinking and action saved his dog and possibly others in the future but no one really knows because they weren’t there. Get off the guy!
Hey all off duty cops!!
Do us all a favor and next time stay away from dog parks. If you do go, use a little common sense. When you take your dog to a no leash park, make sure you take your dog of its leash. Every day we hear of cops and off duty cops terrorizing other peoples pets, many times getting away with it. In this case, even terrorizing the Huskey’s owner. The last time I checked we lived in the US of A. Supposedly the land of the free, but some of the stories I hear about what some cops do make me wonder if we are in some sort of communist, authoritarian police state!!
If I understood the article I read. It wasn’t JUST a gun, it was a 9MIL with HOLLOW POINT AMMO. Do you really a weapon for a walk in the dog park? For gawds sake he was suppose to be off duty.
last week i was dogwalking a friend’s Akita while they were on vacation; we visited the park where all various sizes and breeds were playing. We all enjoyed the park and I felt especially responsible for such a big dawg, (but then again he is just a big ol’ teddy bear). Dogs run free. Some dogs get excited and may initially go after one another but then break free and run off. Regroup. Then play. I can’t imagine that a swift kick couldn’t have worked. But no, let’s take a gun out and shoot it…thank God it didn’t hit a person, or that any children were there. Mr Cop you need more than Admin Leave. Anger management and then maybe a donation of your time to a dog shelter.
Instead of a gun, the guy should have pulled out a camera and video’d the dog attacking his dog. Then he could have SUED the owner of the attacking dog big time!
And this is why I will never ever take my dog to a dog park. It took two to get that dog shot.
As much as I love animals, Your “I couldn’t believe my eyes” indignation may be better directed toward senseless human-on-human crimes. The cop most likely is a dog lover, so take into account how he must have felt after killing the dog. People, keep your ink and outrage in perspective.
If’it’s true that Bear-Bear bit this dog two or three times, his owner must have taked it to the vet for bite wounds. What did the vet have to say?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_people_killed_by_dogs_in_the_United_States
2008 Stats… second most deadly breed… Husky. So much for the “They are a gentle breed” theory.
As for the rest, let the courts work it out thats what they are there for. I beg and plead with everyone who are willing to convict the shooter before ALL the evidence is heard in court to agree never to call the cops in your life. If you believe they are that bad, vote for politicians to do away with the cops and never ever call for one. I have met bad cops but most are good, the same goes for pet owners, I have met bad pet owners but most are good.
look where you got your info that site anyone can right on it and say what they want without knowing for sure if it is the truth.
What would have happened if the shooter was not a law officer and discharged a hand-gun in public killing a dog. We have laws that protect criminals from being shot while running away from their crime by normal citezens. Just because this gentlemans job is law enforcement does that give him the right to shoot somebodies dog because he doesn’t agree with the behavior. I don’t have sympathy for dog owners who get fined or jail time for their animals behavior but this guy took the law into his own hands and should be treated just like everyone else!
The big mistake was bringing the dog into the dog open area while it was still on its leash.
There is a reason for the double gates at the entrance.
Whenever a dog enters the dog park the other dogs will come to check it out (sniff). Many dogs get nervous at being checked out as they do not know the other dogs.
If the dog is still on the leash it cannot run away from the other dogs into the dog park open area and meet the other dogs under its own terms. Being on the leash the dog could not run and was in a flight or fight mode with the flight possibility not available. The dog had only one option and that was to fight for its own space in the crowd. Many dogs, especially females will lay on their backs (submissive and non-threatening) allowing themselves to be checked out by the other dogs.
But too often the dogs fear will make it defensive if it is not permitted to run away from the others dogs.
The shooting was totally unnecessary had the owner used a little dog sense. Never bring a dog into the dog park still wearing its leash!!! If they cannot run they will fight when approached by many other dogs who are just doing the dog ‘greeting sniff’ thing..
It’s not the dogs in a dog park that are the problem – it’s their owners who don’t know anything about dog behavior…
Just because a dog is a good pet and nice to humans does NOT mean it won’t attack another dog. When I was a kid on two separate occasions while walking my cocker spaniel, we were attacked by a dog running loose. One was a black lab, the other was a chow. It was absolutely terrifying. There is no doubt in my mind that if my dad (in the first attack) and a passing motorist (in the second attack) had not intervened, my dog would have had his throat ripped out. It’s not the fault of the dogs, it’s the owner’s fault. If your dog is agressive to other animals you DO NOT take them to a dog park! IMO, the officer was trying to protect his pet and did what he had to do. I feel bad for everyone involved and I’m sure he feels bad that he killed someone’s pet, but come on! Unless you’ve seen an animal attacked, heard the sounds and seen the blood, you can’t know how truly scary it is. That’s my 2 cents.
I wouldn’t have shot another dog that I believed was behaving agressively towards mine. I would have booted it in the head if I really thought he was a danger.
I have a dog that a neighbor’s dogs would be agressive towards, bit him (without drawing blood) and were asically menacing little parasites. Every day now, even though the little furry leeches are gone, I wish I had booted them in the head every single time their brainless owner allowed them to harrass my dog.
My dog is still around – he now has agression/fear problems with other dogs. I keep him out of situations that may result in him scaring the bejeezus out of another dog/owner. He’s never bitten another animal, and I don’t want to find out if he will.
But the bloodless agression he had to endure because another owner was a mouth breathing idiot has become my problem. I really wish I had kicked the snot out her dogs and taught them fear of me before my dog learned fear from them.
I never would have shot them unless I saw blood. This officer went too far if the first thing he thought of was using his gun. There are other ways to dissuade a dog in agressive play.
Look, its a dang dog people. If the off duty cop had shot a person who was biting and kicking the crap out of some other person we’d be pinning a medal on him. Personally, i still would. The owner of the now dead dog got what they deserve for not training and controlling their dog: they no longer have one. Also, they should be the one being sued and looked at for breaking the law-their dog started it. Too bad the cop didn’t ‘miss’. Dumb people make dumb dogs.
“Police have not released the name of the off-duty officer, but NewsChannel 8 has revealed him as Keith Shephard.”
Planet Earth & Jackie are both idiots.
My Uncle, once an officer, said police are more prone to shoot dogs because they are trained to expect the worst from a dog. Drug dealers, punks of all sorts, will train their dogs to fight. I think too often police use this ‘training’ as an excuse to ’shoot first and ask questions later’ – it’s a form of apathy on the officers part.
Sage makes the most sense of all. I’m quite sure we don’t have even half of the true story. I agree that aggressive dogs should be controlled in a dog park or otherwise, but I disagree that shooting an aggressive dog is the answer in that type of situation. But,it is only my opinion which is one of many.
I have owned many Huskies, I loved them all and raised them from birth to grave, each about 13 years. Huskies can be an aggressive breed, without warning. Natures Instinct is much closer to the surface in some breeds, and with Huskies it can appear in a flash. If there is a smaller dog within site, and the Huskie has an opportunity, he will kill it many times. Even if the Huskie has know the other dog for years, when the instinct kicks in, there is not saving the other dog, or at time small child. We loved our Huskies like our children, but they were thier own personalities. The officer should not be condemmed so quickly..Huskies are not labs or lap dogs..they are Near Wolves…and can appear and act a a wolf would without warning.
This is so sad I am so fed up with these rogue cops who are gun happy .I hope he gets kicked out of the force creep that he is…..
A Police officer is off duty not unarmed, his job requires that he intervene in any potential situation that puts any human at grave risk and he will be terminated if he fails to act. Large dogs and especially Huskies and other heavy-work related breeds (potentially sharp)are frequently involved in serious injuries to humans.
Such a family pet can turn on you and cripple you for the rest of your life. Off Leash parks that permit the large breeds still require the owner to maintain due diligence over the animal. The Officer had virtually no choice but to due the needful to protect himself and the lady there present. People ought to assess their pet needs before ever purchasing a dog that his engineered to pull Sleds for they are bred to get the job done or die trying.. It always proves tragic when a dog owner has an animal that is beyond their ability to manage. I have be forced to eliminate 4 month old puppies for the aggressiveness traits. Read, read, read, before you buy or give a home any potentially sharp breed!
I love all you people who say something like “if he had just been a regular citizen he’d be in jail but because he was a police officer…”. First, he was not a police officer but was some sort of “federal agent”. Second, you weren’t there so you have no idea what happened. You people act like anytime an officer or “agent” has to shoot someone or something it is always unjustified. They take oaths to serve and protect, not become injured and die. I guess the main problem is you have to add and subtract facts so any story about an officer or “agent” fits into your notion they are all power hungry bullies. Hopefully it will never need to happen..but if you ever feel the need call 911… don’t. Why would you want some bully come save your butt or deal with someone you can’t/won’t? After all, you would just be interrupting their donut break…right??
Wow some folks in here are very ignorant… all Federal Law Enforcement Agents (Not Officers) are by law to carry their duty weapon or and concealable handgun in their person at all places in the USA (w/exception to courtrooms and jails), those places even include airplanes (yes Federal LEAs can carry on airplanes). Also, if the agents dog were a gov. dog then it is even more of a reason to shoot the attacker. If a human assaults a government dog they could be killed for doing so. Yes having a weapon at all times means that one is more likely to use it, but just think, without police or federal agents there may not even be a park to enjoy safely in this country. How about the disgruntled folks who left comments go live in Juarez,Mexico for a week and I guarantee you will all come back (hopefully) and appreciate the job that all of our public servants do much more.
As a police officer he is trained to use his discretion as to when to use his gun to kill raging animals. He also is skilled in the use of the gun to minimize danger to the bystanders. Did anyone stop to think that every year millions of offduty police officers are mauled by doggies at these dog parks and they are trained on how to respond in a professional manner? A quick kill shot ended what may have turned into a savage bloodthirsty free for all. Thankfully this is why he carried the gun with him to the doggy park. If you have any doubts, watch Cujo.
Completely biased and ignorant article.
“But he took it too far, and his actions were impulsive and irresponsible”
Impulsive and irresponsible? You have got to be kidding me! What else are you supposed to do if you are being actively attacked by a vicious dog. You weren’t there, you even state there were no outside witnesses! How thoughtless and clueless you are. It’s sad you have access to such a public forum to post such rhetoric.
This should happen every day. People with obnoxious dogs that do not control them are BEGGING for this to happen. Don’t want your dog killed, freaking watch them for God’s sake!
I am so tired of the bleeding hearts in this country, 1 I live in a state that concealed handguns are legal, 2 if a dog attacked mine and then when the owner did not try to get it off, then it tried to bite me you are damn straight I am going to shoot it. It is an off leash park but the owner is still resposible for his dog. I am so tired of its always(never my fault) blame the other guy. Guess what YOUR DOG ATTACKS YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE! Get over it and stop trying to blame someone for protecting themselves because if you could you would do the same damn thing. F-ing cry babies!
Why do some of these comments say that you should keep your dog on a leash? At dog parks, you do not use a leash. If you cannot let your dog run around at a dog park off-leash, you should not bring your dog to the dog park. Why did Shepard keep his dog leashed? He could walk the dog in any other park if he wants to use the leash. Dog Parks are there so dogs can run and play off-leash. This dog was killed in an OFF LEASH DOG PARK!!! He wasn’t charging people or pissing in a kids park. He wasn’t running in the streets after anyone. He was where he belonged and had been going there for a long time. Shepard should have kept his testosterone under control and taken his dog off the leash so the dogs could establish their own dominance and pecking order. I think that the big bad cop just didn’t like Bear-Bear because he jumped on Asia. Well dogs in dog parks do that all the time. Evn the little dogs do it to the big dogs, or at least they try to…I’ve been going to dog parks for years and have seen hundreds of dogs play and jump on each other, and sometimes get too rough. It happens, but I’ve never seen a dog fight get so bad that a gun was needed. Not once. Even the dogs who get into it, will get over it soon enough. And they don’t hold a grudge when it’s over which is more than I can say for people. Mister tough cop just couldn’t handle it when his dog was not the top alpha-male. It reminds me of the stupid S.O.B.s who make their sons fight so they don’t get called sissies. Why else did he pull his gun on an innocent playful doggy? As the article says, no one was injured except Bear-Bear. No marks on his dog so it doesn’t sound like a fight to me. No injuries to him, his wife or his dog. And by the way, some dog parks are pretty large. When a new dog comes in, the other dogs usually run over to “meet” the new dog. That could mean that the man who brought Bear-Bear to the Dog Park was not close enough at the time to get there before the cop started shooting. I hope he gets sued AND goes to jail for using a firearm in the city park. And yes, if that had been me or you, we’d be in jail.
I understand comments made by others but what I want to know is where was the owner of that “attack” dog? Certainly reads he was no where near or even paying attention to what his dog was doing. Don’t everyone assume because this is a police officer he was wrong for what he did. Would you feel the same way if the dog attacked people or what if it had been a child? Grow up people there really is not enough information to form an opinion either way….I’m sorry for everyone.
The officer should have shot BearBear, his owner and every other stray dog and owner there for getting into his dog’s space at an off-leash dog park that he willingly entered with spouse and dog in tow… oh wait.
Bet the dog just wants to hang out in the backyard next time. Forget going for a ride, might be his last one, unless Daddy runs out of bullets.
Are you sure he didnt work for the Post Office?
Humans attach human emotions to dogs. Unfortunately for Bear Bear, no one seems to be speaking for him. The officer had no right to do what he did. If this officer had his dog on a leash (stupid in a dog park), then he should have dragged his dog right back out the gate. If Bear Bear continued with the behavior, his dog would have been removed. People get very emotional when it comes to our pets, but we cannot attach human emotions in our animals. These two dogs were acting like dogs, not people. These two were probably doing nothing more than trying to exert dominance and establish a pecking order.
To all the “I would have shot him too” & “He was protecting his family.”
This was a PUBLIC OFF-LEASHE PARK. The shooters dog, being leashed, in perfect dog behavior, became aggressive and started the fight. The hard the ignorant and scared owner pulled on the leash, the more arrogant and vicious his dog became.
Had the FEDERAL OFFICER dropped the leash in the off-leash park, the “fight” would have ended and the dogs would have been cool.
The real point here is:
1) Owner ignorance
2) Choosing a breed to protect an obviously scared owner
3) Ignorant owners need to take dog training classes to learn about how their behavior affects their animals.
4) The FED could have gotten away from the situation with his wife by exiting the pen. HE AND HIS WIFE would be safe, and only the dogs at risk. Pulling his gun, shooting the OTHER dog, and possibly provoking a GUN BATTLE in a public park was insane.
5) The FED has pro reasoning skills, is generally scared of his environment, chose a dog and a conceal carry as protection, and believes his property is worth more than Joe Citizens. Guaranteed this guy has shot other HUMANS, pulls his weapon 10X more than his co-workers, drives a Hummer, is violent towards his wife, was bullied as a child, and has a very small penis.
#5 goes to all you other idiots saying you would shoot the dog too. What a bunch of scared little people. Man-Up.
yes, the officer was within his limits, and its very few and far between I’d say that. And this is coming from an avid dog and animal lover.
learn to respect life and people SHOW SOME RESPECT
Please stop all the commenting on what officers are doing in the line duty. Unless you’re a cop yourself or have a very clear understanding of the sitaution, you really don’t have a leg to stand on. If the officer feared for his life or safety, he could have and should have used his weapon. That’s what it’s for. Huskies are the second deadliest breed in te United States in terms of attacks against humans.
Further, what do you mean “justice”? For a dog? That was on the attack? Do you really have that much of a beef with the boys in blue that you would side with an attacking dog over an officer of the law? If so, that’s sad.
Also, thanks for being a contributing to the unprofessionalism and releasing the poor man’s name, so even more people can harass him. I’m sure he appreciates it.
Jane, your’ experience of being attacked by a dog makes you biased. This was not the same situation as yours. The evidence seems to show that the PO(if he was one) was in the wrong. I have much respect for the many honorable officers out there, but being a cop doesn’t mean you’re a good person. Just look at the corruption in the New Orleans Police Department. Some people become cops because they want power over others. They think they can do anything they want and unfortunately they usually get away with it.
ATTN Planet Earth
If you end my dogs life because you are a retard with a gun instead of a cock, you won’t have a moment to regret it.
An attacking dog needs to be deterred from biting another dog. It needs to be killed if it attacks a human.
The signage at the parks sets out rules. This has been verified.
No Firearms are allowed.
My last comment: Any trained Concealed Carry FEDERAL OFFICER knows NOT to pull his weapon in this case. That is what the training requires. Furthermore, they are trained with Canine Partners, and those animals are treated as officers. The other owner would be under arrest for shooting the other dog, had it been a Canine Officer. It was a complete and total failure of training, use of force, and arrogant wielding of a weapon.
I hope it was a personal weapon, that Federal Officer does not mean “Law Enforcement,” and that he is treated like any Joe Citizen who pulls and fires his weapon with reckless abandon in public. This is not Bagdad. Unless you are on PRIVATE PROPERTY, being attacked by unleashed dogs, you have no right to shoot a domesticated animal any more than you do another human who may be fighting with your best friend.
Use the AKC term for female dogs. Say the article said “One bitch attacked the other,” and the Officer chose to shoot the bitch that was not his. Oh, and the bitch turned out to be a woman. Is it still OK?
No and No.
this all sounds like crap cop rules apply. at least he got put on admin leave. prob paid leave tho
Wow, everyone has formed some opinion without a real 1st hand info. Were you there ??? No… then stop making waves, oh cops are all trigger happy !!! I’m sure the next time your getting mauled, you may wish one of those trigger happy cops are on scene to save you.
To many of the commenters:
Have you ever been to a dog park? A dog park is where you bring your dog to take them off the leash. If you are skittish about dogs, or you have small children that might get bit, DON’T GO TO A DOG PARK.
This is not like someone let his dog off the leash and the dog went crazy where he shouldn’t have. A dog is entitled to be a dog at a dog park. And not get shot while he is there.
To the people who claim Bear-Bear should have been under immediate command of his owner, read the above. This is a DOG PARK. Dogs run around. That is why there are fences.
If you feel nervous about the idea of a dog park, stay home. Don’t bring your dog and a gun just in case someone else — gasp — brought their dog too.
I’d have blasted that dog, too. People don’t even know ow to train their dogs anymore, then they let them run free (even in an enclosed dog park) and expect others not to take action. I’ve been bitten trying to break up dog fights and it’s no fun. Blast away, officer!
I would like to draw everyone’s attention to Joan’s comments. She gives more details about the inapropriate police conduct. So we shouldn’t be surprised if one police officer behaved in an abusive manner if the rest of the department did the same and worse. This incident is only the symptom of a serious disease: abuse of power.
And for those who support this guy I have a question: if it was his kid getting into a fight with another kid in the park, would it be OK for the police officer to shoot the other kid?
Maybe the Fed can come visit us sometime with his gun. We always have strays and dumps running down the road.
I smell a new career for him… ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER!
As a firearm owner with a permit to carry in public, I am EMBARASSED by this clown. He is a bully, coward, and a disgrace to dedicated, competent police officers everywhere and he should lose his job and pension. Let this jack-a$$ go work as a carny or something, but he does not deserve to keep his badge. Again, this man is an embarrassment and his actions can be justified by any citizen with common sense.
Unreal! Have most of you not been reading the same papers as I? People are attacked, and maimed or killed by dogs on a regular basis. This was a large dog, attacking another, and then attacking a person!
I would have shot the dog too before I would allow myself or my dog to be ripped to shreds….I own a rottweiler and a mutt.
A responsible dog owner controls their animal.
A responsible person puts their life and safety above an animals!
If you or I had done this, we would be in jail while it was investigated. That is where this guy belongs. I’m so sick of cops being above the law. His life was not in jeopardy he had no justifieable cause to discharge a firearm in public much less kill an animal that is only acting within it’s nature. Probably upset this macho @sshole that his dog was getting a little beat up. This jerk belongs in prison, certainly not policing our streets.
I have to side with the officer. If my dog or child was attacked then you have to shoot the offender. The owner of the husky bears ALL responsibility. One bite is too many and is ABSOLUTELY UNACCEPTABLE. I stay close to my Great Dane and will grab an offending dog if its too annoying and I sense escalation. I feel that most of these comments would be different if the husky killed or severly injured this other dog. These people would then complain why didn’t he do something. He acted correctly. Those who have unruly dogs won’t show up at that dog park and its much safer for the rest of us.
Let me start by saying that I have no idea whether the officer was justified in shooting Bear Bear, and anytime this happens, it is very tragic. With that said, I think that a lot of people are rushing to judgement in stating that the officer was abusing his powers. I am a life-long dog lover, and owner, but I was placed in a very similar situation, in which I had to fire my weapon after a pit-bull mix breed dog charged me, and after knocking it away once, it charged me again, and I had to put it down. I was not going to risk being injured and maimed, thereby putting my career in jeopardy, along with my means of paying the bills for my family. The point that I am trying to make is that dog owners need to be more responsible for their pets, and be held accountable. Had the owner of the dog that charged me, not ran from me during a burglary investigation, I would have never had to discharge my weapon. Unfortunately, the dog, which was only doing what dogs do, protecting her property and owner, paid the sacrifice of an ignorant owner. If the officer who fired his weapon in this case was in the wrong, then I agree that he should be held accountable…Let’s give him the same benefit of the doubt until this is determined…
These guys get away with killing PEOPLE all the time, a dog is nothing, not even extra paperwork. The officer will probably get paid leave and counseling for the stress he had to endure while killing someones dog.
nothing like a dog taking a really large piece of your ass in his mouth to make you use lethal force. my dogs are a part of my family. if your dog attacks, i will defend my dogs, like i would defend any other member of my family using what ever means i have. i would expect you to do the same.
I agree with all those who feel we have the right to protect ourselves and families with whatever force necessary, But I also think the situation could have been handled just as easily and much more humanely by just firing the gun into the ground. I have yet to see a dog that a gunshot doesn’t get their attention. If this officer has no better discretion than that he doesn’t deserve to carry a badge. PERIOD
Commentor 308 and others, please remember: no dog was bitten or scratched, same for humans. Also remember that in dog park not on the street. The owner of GS perceived a threat to his dog and/or himself, he shot the HSK. HSK owner says agressive play, GS says fight/attack. Now my opinion: given not even one scratch, looks like human overreaction.
I am not judging this individual based on the vague facts presented in this article ! But I will tell you this, if a owner cannot control his dog and it is attacking my dog…I will stop it via the same methods! A dog that is unresponsive to its owner OR an owner that is unresponsive to the menace posed by their pet is a hazard not only to other dogs, but kids as well. And if dog is attacking my kids….it will be shot immediately….I will then place a note in the dead dogs mouth saying “This is what you get when you don’t control your dog” and return the entire package to the owner!
The cop has Barney Fife syndrome.
I have the greatest respect for police officers, but in a case like this the man has to be judged as any of us non-police officers are judged. He should not have shot this dog and killed it. I hope they investigate this case really thourough and make sure justice is done – if charges need to be filed and carried out on the man with the gun, then so be it. The fact is a person’s dog that they loved is now gone prematurely because of what I think was over-reaction.
Take the rent a cop to court where he will get screw-screwed a la his wallet.
It always amazes me how many stupid people really exist!!
This officer’s dog was attacked + His dog was on a leash+
Bears owner had no control+ dog tries to bite officer+ (officer or a CIVILIAN has the right to protect his property (dog) and himself from a threat!! = DEADLY FORCE!!
If he was OFF duty WHY was he carrying his gun???? Definetly a so called cop that does NOT need to be carrying a gun!!!!!!!!@
It never ceases to amaze me that soooooooooo many people will get more up in arms over a dog than they will a child.
If Bear-Bear had left a scratch on the other dog, or the other two people, and the officer had NOT shot him, who would have received a citation? Bear-Bear…or his owner?
A: His owner, because he is responsible for his pet no matter WHERE he is and under ALL circumstances. Bear-Bear’s death is on HIS head.
The only legal requirement for using lethal force (against a HUMAN, not an animal) to defend yourself is that you fear for your life or the life of another (or believe yourself or another in danger of great bodily harm) and you have no other reasonable option available to deter or negate the imminent threat to yourself or another.
MR Shepard, his Wife and Asia were at the Quail-Run Dog park when Bear-Bear ran over and ‘jumped on’ their dog Asia. They were not familiar with Bear-Bear and had no idea what the dog’s intentions were. I keep hearing people here put MR Shepard down because “He is an idiot” that has no idea about dog behavior. He is not responsible for knowing ALL dog breed’s behavior, just his own dog’s behavior. It was even stated by the rescue official interviewed that; “Siberian Husky’s are known for their very rough play habits, and that someone unaccustomed to the breed can easily mistake that behavior as aggressive…”
MR Shepard reportedly tried at LEAST once to get Bear-Bear away from Asia and his Wife. He was almost bitten for his efforts and then Bear-Bear returned his attention back and continued his assault upon Asia. He even called Bear-Bear’s ‘assumed’ owner to intervene and gain control of Bear-Bear. I consider that MORE than he should have done because his owner should have been AWARE of where Bear-Bear was and what he was doing at ALL times REGARDLESS of being in a “Dog park”.
The testimonies of all the people who ‘knew’ Bear-Bear as a non-aggressive and loving pet are irrelevant, in same way that all the shocked neighbor’s who all say their quiet, kind, generous, church-going neighbor couldn’t possibly be the serial-rapist caught red-handed in the act are irrelevant.
Nobody KNOWS if an unknown large breed dog that runs toward them and jumps on their pet or themselves or another human is aggressive or not. In my mind if you don’t err on the side of caution then you are probably in the running for a “Darwin Award” or at the very least deserve to get bit to teach you some common sense.
There also seems to be a lot of “Animals are more important than a human’s safety” bias in most of the posts on this thread as well as a lot of comments about people desiring to do physical violence to MR Shepard in retaliation for what he did. Everyone kept on pointing out that MR Shepard was at fault because his Pet was still on a leash. Did anyone ask how long MR Shepard had BEEN THERE at the park? Maybe he had just arrived, and THAT is WHY Asia was still on a leash as MR Shepard had not had time to take his pet off leash yet. I saw plenty of posts decrying the fact that MR Shepard didn’t wait long enough for Bear-Bear’s owner to intervene and gain control of him before shooting him but we don’t know how long that was to begin with. But nobody here asked how long MR Shepard had been there before automatically assuming that HE had had PLENTY of time to get his pet off the leash. Maybe Bear-Bear’s owner had ‘plenty’ of time to gain control of him also? Who knows…just don’t be so biased.
I think both parties are to blame:
***If MR Shepard was issued a concealed carry permit as most law enforcement officers do (as most carry back-up weapons anyway) then he was legally able to carry a weapon. I have a permit to carry a concealed weapon myself and I am not law enforcement.
***If the dog park was legally posted prohibiting the carrying of weapons, then MR Shepard was wrong.
***Bear-Bear was obviously not properly trained by his exhibited behavior around Asia. There are training classes which address such behavior if you care about your dog. My 175lb Rottweiler Gus is the most docile breed of dog I have EVER had, but he is VERY protective with a VERY reserved sense of personal dignity almost characteristic of an English butler. If Bear-Bear had ran over and jumped on Gus, he would have been visibly shocked and looked to me for a cue as to how to respond. If I had shouted for the owner, or shouted at the other dog and tried to get them apart, Gus would have perceived a threat and attacked Bear-bear himself. If Gus had seen Bear-Bear snap at me nobody would have been able to keep Gus off bear-Bear unless he was tased or shot. Gus will not attack or ‘jump’ or even approach another dog without looking to me for ‘permission’ unless he perceives a threat to me and even then he will remain at my side in ‘guard-mode’. Gus IS a very playful dog…he is just very well trained because I KNOW how people perceive Rottweilers in general and want to avoid trouble.
***Bear-Bear’s owner did not maintain control of him. Even in a ‘dog-park’ that does NOT absolve you of responsibility for your pet, just as taking your child to a playground doesn’t absolve you of being a vigilant and responsible parent because there are “other parents present.” In fact, I would say that in both cases, your responsibility should increase by at least 2x.
***I won’t comment on the alleged PTSD because it sounds wishy-washy to me.
***I also won’t comment about the Officer’s judgment or lack thereof. I do know that being a law-officer you must develop sort of an instinct about judging whether a situation has ‘passed that line’ and requires deadly force and act upon that instinct instantly or you or another person could pay for your hesitation with great injury or death. It was mentioned that MR Shepard’s Wife was present. Love can tip that instinct decidedly towards using that level of force when confronted with danger. Was she screaming? Was she possibly pregnant? Things certainly worth considering…
To be honest, if I had been MR Shepard and it had been my little girl at 3-4 years old there with me I would have probably responded similarly to how he did. If not armed I would have stomped Bear-Bear into a puddle and walked his a** dry…quick, fast, and in a hurry.
My point is…’we’ weren’t there. It wasn’t ‘our’ pet, and ‘our’ loved one potentially in harm’s way. We won’t know WHAT ‘we’ would have done unless it happened to us.
I am very sorry for Bear-Bear, Bear-Bear’s owner and friends/family. I hope everyone involved can get past this and that all (including here) have learned something from this that will prevent this type of thing from happening to them.
Take care all and go hug your pet. I’m scratching Gus’s ears as I write this…
-Cheers.
Asia was on a leash in a dog park? This put Asia at a disadvantage, could cause tension felt by the other dogs. I am a frequenter of dog parks and sometimes dogs, when they first arrive, do get rushed a bit by the ones already there. Some people don’t understand that the dogs will settle in just a few minutes. The “off-duty” copy should have left his gun in the car trunk. Honestly, this would very much upset me if it happened to my dog. Asia is a German Shepherd? They often tend to react more to other dogs and other dogs in turn will react to their tension. But the humans not unleashing their dog, to take part in a normal dog-to-dog introduction, is remiss! It can even cause biting.
What if it had been a child? Bear Bear was obviously an aggressive animal and the shooting was completely justified. Anyone that has seen a dog lose it for no reason will completely agree. As for the owner, if you elect to own an aggressive animal, you may as well own a gun because it’s the same thing. Sooner or later, it will go off and kill someone.
Several things stand out:
The only reported injury was the dead dog, not the shooter, not the shooter’s dog. This strongly suggests that the Husky was playing in typical Husky fashion. If a dog that size is attacking, there will be injuries.
With no lives at risk there is no justification for discharging a gun in a public place.
The people who are assuming this dog was a vicious killer have no idea what they are talking about.
This officer should be put on probation at a minimum and preferably banned from carrying a firearm.
Thank God the Husky’s owner did not swing on him, he would have killed him, too. I would have jumped on anyone who shot my dog in front of me for no good reason.
I’m sure my opinion would be less than favorable in this forum, but I thought I’d throw it out there anyway. This officer was a complete gag-off for shooting this dog. If he’d been a responsible dog owner he would have had his own dog off the leash. Second, if he were a not a complete wimp, and actually a true law enforcement officer…he would have engaged this situation with a quick kick to the dog, rather than drawing down on it with a 9mm in the park.
Yah, you might hurt the dog, but you’ll spare its life. Dogs are dogs, sometimes they fight…it’s the natural order of things.
After shooting the dog,,he should have shot the owner’s brother!
This “off duty” cop should lose his job and be put in jail for murdering a member of someone’s family. I hope he faces not only criminal charges, but has a civil suit that makes him pay out the butt for what he did. What a sick, angry, scary individual. That’s why cops should have either sedative guns or stun guns only – not lethal weapons. This makes me sick…. poor Bear. I am so sorry for Bear’s owners, too. It’s not as if it was a maltese being attacked or anything….they are both big, capable, territorial breeds who probably had an ego clash but it certainly didn’t warrant this act of cruelty and murder.
Geez, It’s amazing how so many of you assume the police officer was wrong. Remember that you’re “innocent until proven guilty” …unless you happen to shoot a dog, I guess. It seems extremely disrespectful for so many of you to make such bitter and anti-police comments. Don’t you see how you make all of us who love our pets look like a bunch of low-IQ mental cases or something? Why not take the high road and wait until the investigation is complete?
I love the way he’s called a bully and power hungry…the insults some people throw at this officer act like they know him personally…after reading an article about one incident.
I don’t know if he meant to kill the dog or not…I have no clue, nor do any of you other people! I am a dog lover, my home life revolves around my dogs…just as if my child were being attacked by a dog I would use anything I could obtain to get the aggressor off my kid/dog. I have been in that situation and it is not easy to deal with.
I know the pain both side are feeling, my condolences…but all you sheep that are jumping on the “hate the bad cop” bandwagon need to grow up…put yourself in each parties shoes and treat them as you’d want to be treated!
If the situation were turned backwards, and instead of that a*hole cop shooting bear-bear, what if the other guy was in the same situation and decided to shoot Asia instead. My money goes towards the cop would probably arrest him for some ridiculous reason and make the guy feel like a criminal… What is it with cops and abusing their powers? That’s how they repay us? We give them our tax dollars and they can shoot our animals when they aren’t even on the job.. not only that, but get away with it. Makes me sick to my stomach.
I wasn’t there, don’t have all the information, but with the shallow read, it sounds like the shooter overreacted. It sounds like a dominant aggressive fool to knowingly take a dog amongst other dogs and then kill anything that gives them trouble.
Personally, I wouldn’t take a pet to a non-leash dog park… there’s going to be conflicts, and lazy owners, and belligerent owners, just like their dogs.
I’ve been bitten by loose big dogs, and small ones on leashes… the big ones terrorize, period. There are too many incidents of people dead from dogs… as a young child, alone, I was bullied by a Saint Bernard that kept knocking me down… I got away. I did absolutely nothing for the small dog on a leash who bit my ankle from behind.
Now, if a dog attacks me, I will defend myself… first by seizing the animal, if it is small enough to incapacitate it, otherwise with violence to deter it… if the owner does not -immediately- assist me. If a dog attacks me with no owner present… it risks its life doing so. I will not suffer a vicious animal… it will not suffer either; a large dog attacks me, I’ll injure or kill it… -perhaps- -after- the first bite, but I doubt I’ll wait that long for an animal of any threatening size. I don’t fault anyone else who elects to do so, when the owner can’t or won’t stop their animal. Control should be IMMEDIATE. A leash is no protection, unless the owner is physically able to control with it, and it’s short enough to prevent contact and you stay out of reach. Even ‘good’ animals can be vicious, and not necessarily needing to be provoked…. owners are responsible for everything their animal does, even if provoked.
But a domineering fool who takes a gun and a dog to a dog park… best explain themselves for doing so.
I have 2 Mini dachs, I made the mistake of taking them to a park and when a Dalmation who Just wanted to play my youngest was so terified he ran away and we could get him to stop,the Dalmation was running right along with him thinking he was having a grand time,
I did not think my dog was in danger at any time but he sure did.Dog Parks are great,dog parks are not for dogs that wont stop on comand
Seems by many of the comments that if Bear-Bear would have killed the german shepherd, and maybe during or after – the dog would then have gone after the man’s wife – you would all blame the off-duty cop for not stopping it. And felt bad for the poor german shepherd with it’s bloody throat ripped out.
I’m a commercial dog walker. Every day I enter a dog park in my area with up to 6 dogs UNDER MY CONTROL. I understand that when I bring them there, I may not have control of the dogs they interact with, and so I use my authority and body language to let my dogs and the other dogs know that I am in control, watching and paying attention. Dog fights happen. When they do – and I’m talking about big dogs, boxers, retriever mixes, huskys, rotties, etc. – I put myself between the dogs and use my body to block them, then I pull my dog out by the hind legs and hips, put them on leash and keep them next to me until the situation has been resolved and the dogs have be properly introduced. I’ve never had this be insufficient and most fights are resolved with the dogs getting along just fine minutes later. There is no reason to carry a gun into a dog park under ANY reason, anyone in control of their own animal should have been able to break up that situation. All of you freaks that say “I would have done the same thing” are the reason I’m THRILLED to say I live in CANADA… where, incidentally, we have a higher gun-ownership ratio than the US when population is factored in, but where this simply wouldn’t happen, because we’re not a nation of gun toting a-holes that think it’s their god given right to randomly shoot anyone or anything deemed offensive. And why all the pitbull comments? There was no pitti involved, just a lot of reactionary crap.
Gary Monn – you’re an idiot. What if, what if, what if? What if some cop with an attitude problem brought a gun into the park? What if some poor guy thought he’d bring his brother’s dog to the park for a nice evening outing? What if his dog decided to play a little rough with another dog THE SAME SIZE, but didn’t break skin or do any sort of harm? What if that cop with the attitude simply decided to shoot the other dog because of fear over something THAT HAD NOT HAPPENED?
or, to use your stupid little analogy:
What if a strange man came up to me on the street and started talking to me in a way I didn’t like… What if I had a child with me? Should I shoot the man because if I didn’t he might escalate the situation and beg for money or steal my purse or say something I didn’t like? I guess so, before he decides to kill either myself or my child?
Rip his throat out, huh? Just a little reactionary? I bet you voted for Bush too, didn’t you…
Commenting after reading the article and skimming the comments – if it’s true that the shooter SHOT THE DOG WHILST IT HAD ITS BACK TO HIM, then as others have noted, there was certainly no immediate, clear, or present danger to the shooter himself or his wife.
And since when is it cool for an irresponsible dog owner to shoot someone else’s dog because he thinks it’s playing too roughly w/ his leashed-dog in an off-leash park?
Good to see that dog owners are a vocal segment of society, and that they raised hell over this and prevented the police from covering it up.
Unbelievable.
1. If he was truly a Federal Officer, why was he so scared of a dog? The dogs were equally sized, and there was no evidence of any damage to the ‘officer’, his German Shephard, or his wife. He panicked, and we do not need officers in the field who will panic. He is trigger happy and should stick with a research job.
2. When my Chihuahua was a puppy, I was walking her and my dobie lab, when a ‘neighbors’ dog bolted out of the house and attacked both of my dogs. Physically attacked, not playful. This was a pitbull. Even his owner had trouble getting him off of my Yasha. (I was on the opposite side of the street). Fortunately, I was fast enough to pick up my Chihuahua. We still have the Chi, and another small dog.
3. If your dog shows aggression towards my kids, I will not hesitate to take a Bo Staff or a set of Arnis sticks to it. Not that I would want to kill your dog, but, I will do what I have to in order to protect my children. I don’t have to worry about my dogs, they stay in the house, and only go out to make.
I hate dog parks. An owner’s uncontrollable dog once bit my leg and wouldn’t let go ( I have 32 stitches and part of a toe missing). I didn’t use a gun. With my thumbs I pushed the dogs eyeballs to the back of his head. He let go.
The off-duty officer probably was afraid the Husky was going to pull a gun and shoot him.
Too bad the Husky didn’t have a gun and didn’t use it.
I have had Dogs all my life and I’m 57 years old.
My dog is part of the family. It sound to me this cop MURDERED this dog for his own fears.
Book him on MURDER charges ……. ASPCA
It just re-affirms over and over again why cops are so disliked. They are never held accountable for their actions, and more than likely deserve it when they are shot themselves.
Gutless cop. He just wanted to use his gun. Every cop knows that all one has to do is grab a dog by the two hind legs and pull. End of the fight for the aggressive dog.
Very poor judgment on the “officer’s” part. There are plenty of other ways to get dogs apart. He probably acted like a wuss and the dog perceived his hesitancy and that’s why it tried to be aggressive with him. It really makes me wonder, though…what was Asia doing while this was going on?
At our local dog park, dog fights happen off and on – nothing serious, and it’s usually due to a dog owner acting stupidly.
Sincere condolences to the owner of Bear Bear. Maybe he’ll come back as a ghost and bite ol’ Officer Shephard in the hind end.
Like Joe the Cop I am really bothered by the number of people that are really out of touch with reality. I have witnessed a real dog fight and the owner of both broke them up with a cattle prod. I would not have gone near them becasue they would bite anything that moved. Most of the wackos here dont even read the details. The officer said when he tried to separate them the dog bit AT him. Not that he bit him. That means there was no way to get near enough to them to separate without chance of serious injury or death. Like one of the writers says, a person has a right to defend and protect. If the one dog were prone to play ruff or attack and was not sociable he should not have been in such a place. I have seen more irresponsible owners of large dogs capable of killing a human than I have seen irresponsible police. Errors can occur but if what was written is correct the officer did the right thing to kill an out of control dog when he could not separate them. He does not have to wait until the dog kills his to take action. He did exactly the right thing. To most of you wackos he is automatically wrong because he is a trained professional and a lot smarter than you or wrong because he carries a gun. I carry one too. 100% of the time. Ever hear of home invasion? Animals attacked and killed in their own yard. I had 4 large dogs come upon me suddenly and It was by pure luck I was able to confound them and get away. A few days later a trucker parked his truck at a store and was walking to his residence where he could not park and they attacked him. He lived but will never work another day in his life. Ended in divorce from the strain on the family,etc, lots of sadness. A man stopped and pulled him inside the car and got him away or he would be dead. If you dog attacks my dog and may kill or seriously injure him, I would do the same, exactly. The right bullets, the right place to shoot if possible. I am mature in 60s, military vet, peaceful citizen with license to carry. In a wheelchair now but in earlier life could not defend myself in serious situations without a gun. I lived in Detroit when several people were killed after being raped when their car broke down and the state police were bought in to patrol the expressways. Had they taken their personal security seriously and defended their self and wife they would be alive today. Be responsible with your dog. Keep it under control. If it atackes me or my family and I cannot get it to go away any other way I will drop it. If the owner then comes at me in an uncontrolable rage and is about to injure me he will be with his dog on the ground. Respect other people and their property. Because you have a large dog is no reason to let it jump on someone else. Praise the police, you may need one some day, like the aethist will someday need God. Sorry for the spelling. I can’t get it right at times. Police and some citizens carry a firearm 100% of the time. Otherwise the one time you need it , you wont have it. I have needed mine once in my shop to protect my son when someone was out of control and a threat to him. Once in 60+ years and it saved his life without firing it. I could say more about people that are so predudiced toward guns or police but you would not understand and the ones that understand dont need it repeated. The police officer gets 5 stars and thanks. You make the world a much better place than………
Regarding what “Planet Earth says”
Planet earth i want you to know you are a crazy wack job. Really, you’d shoot a dog for attacking your dog. Just a comment like that will get the universe against you, bad move.
LMAO.
I cannot for the life of me beleive that you “”Dog Lovers”
are placing a human being in the same line as an animal !!
what a bunch of morons ! you would actually let a child get mauled before letting your fluffy loveable Pet be Harmed.. you fools ! and you want a Law Enforcement Officer to be Jailed or Shot.. in the defence of a Dog !
WOW you people must be some real serious losers without a life…YOU WAS NOT THERE !!! you read an article and became the Protector of animals everywhere .
I own 3 dogs. If anyone of them EVER attacked a child, see ya ! I’ve seen morons like you people before, actually blaming kids for getting bit because they were in the dogs “Personal zone” ,,,,, BULLS**T.. they are animals,,,you want to love them,go ahead, but dont place them above a child or human being for that matter, ( Not including robbers,child molesters,dope heads ect.ect.) because they are not humans but animals themselves..
apparently all of you police bashers have been arrested for something and thats why you are sour towards law enforcement..I’m not a Police officers and I’ve been arrested for D.U.I. It was my fault, why would I hate the cops for something I did to MYSELF ! I carry a gun, so What. I am ex-military with years of martial arts training so dont flatter yourself and call me afraid, because I carry a gun. come to think of it, Be a Man ( or) woman, go up to a Police officers and call him some of the names you are calling them while hiding behind your monitor… or just sit in YOUR DOGGIE PARK with fido and pretend your really helping the world by saying we dont need the Police,,,And better yet, post something negative on a web page article about an animal instead of helping another human being , best of all, try reading the intire article instead of just posts, and add your comments about something you have no idea what your talking about…
Watch some of the court tv programs where dog owners are admonished for not having their dog under control. I may be a nut job but I was the one packing the drag chutes at one time to stop the jets carrying nukes. Like I said I have never but I am a man and if it comes to the extreme force I will protect myself and even you if you were being attacked. I come from a long line of protectors since documented at Kings Mt and Cowpens in the Revoutionary war to the cousin that was in WWII, Korea, and killed in the line of duty as a police officer. Nuts like us built this country and protect the candy asses. Without us you would be in England supporting the Queen and speaking funny English. You are welcome for the free ride.
5 stars Mr T You are right on.
First Mr. T is a fool. If he thinks, that the life of a person is more valuable than a dog..he is just an idiot to even in the first place compare. Life is life and should be treated with dignity and sanctity. Just because we humans collectively have the brains and power to control other species, does not mean we have a right to, or that it is correct. By that logic, every gun wielding bozo has a right to kill any person without a gun. MIGHT is NOT RIGHT..MR. T. And before you open your mouth unthinkingly, just think there are several out there who could kill you because they are stronger than you and you irritate them. I hope that seems ok and logical to you?
What was done by this officer was infact something a Mr. T would happily do I presume. Quickly come to the conclusion..it’s just a dog and it is bothering me a superior home sapien and what a good excuse to practice shooting my firearm!
What was done by this officer to this innocent dog was base, mean and really inhuman. THERE was no reason to kill…even if this evil officer had just shot in the air, and given a kick to the startled dogs it would have been OK.
I am so sorry…that Bear-Bear had to die because of a sadistic idiot who should never have owned a dog in the first place and whose licence to carry a gun needs to be revoked ASAP.
The life of a human is not worth more than a dog. The difference the human has a soul and has been given a place of dominance on the earth. I have 9 little dogs and I love them as children. In a lot of ways more loyal than people but still….but since I think of it, I know a lot of people I would not value more than my little guys. You might be one. I certainly would not value an attacking out of control dog more than my little well behaved innocents. The first thing my dad taught me was to never shoot into the air. That bullet may come down a mile away and kill someone. When you say that you loose all credibility with me. You remind me of the middle east where everyone shoots guns in the air at weddings and falling bullets kill some of the wedding party. Do your self a favor, listen to the people you are attacking.
Isn’t this what a gun is for? Protecting your family, even if its one dog against another, it’s his 2nd Amendment right. If some little kid started beating up mine on the playground i’d shoot his ass dead, and his parents too if they had something to say about it. 2nd Amendment. Read it. Besides, all dogs go to heaven.
Lets not shoot any little kids There is no comparison between kids and an out of control large strong dog unless they are armed and about to use deadly force. That would be very rare. They are not likely to be able to dish out death.
How about you not tell me how to defend my family and property Ron. Liberal wuss.
I just know the law and I also know you cannot shoot a little kid under any circumstance I can imagine. If you do you will set 20 years in jail and then get a needle. You can only use deadly force against a human if you are facing deadly force and other factors. If your neighbor is coming at you with a garden hose to hit you it does not justify deadly force and should not be considered. Kids fighting will have to be handled differently. I can tell you what the law says about protection with a firearm. You can take it or leave it. If you break the law with a firearm you will have a lot of tiime to sit and think about it. Deadly force is not for arguments. And even pulling a gun in most cases is illegal. Unlawful display of a firearm to gain leverage. I am sure you will get others to explain better than me, its late and I am tired. You have to know the law to be licensed to carry. That is the reason for the license compared to drivers license. You must know about operation and how to drive and rules of the road to qualify for a license. Granted some fool the license bereau but….not counting those rare occurences. By the way the liberal is the one that says talk nice to the robber or killer and he will turn and give a kiss and be a good criminal and not hurt anyone any more. Remember the Brady people, liberals that wants to do away with guns because Mr Brady was shot by a mentally disturbed person and dont believe you should protect yourself. I am a conservative. Opposite view.
I would guess that it’s been said on these comments over and over, but I’ve not read a one. I’ll say it anyway:
You guys are horrifyingly, adorably hilarious and ok maybe I shouldn’t bother. But seriously? How many of us had a few tense seconds with our dogs dancing with each other? So bloody happy that nobody packs here. A moment of panic and *BLAM BLAM*. It’s not as “badass cowboy” as you think it is.
And also, sorry; I totally know that there are lovely Americans – Cheers and visit Canada!
You sound like some kind of damned leftist hippy to me. You probably voted for Obama. If i feel that my kids or property is being threatened i have the 2nd Amendment right to defend it, so don’t tell me how or what to do. Whatever, this officer was completely justified in doing what he did. Huskies look a lot like a Wolf, and everybody knows wolves are aggressive as hell. Huskies are huge dogs and he probably would have killed that Shepard and the officer and his wife given the chance, and then turned on his own owner. That officer did the right thing before it turned ugly. Brady got shot, but so did Reagan, and Reagan loved his gun rights and AMERICA. Ray Gun.
It is important for the knucklehead who killed a dog that was acting like a dog learn that when entering an “off-leash” park, your animal(s) are “OFF LEASH”! If your dog park does not have a fenced “vestibule” for leash removal, find a new park. My heart goes out to the owners of Bear Bear.
It’s just a dog….not like he killed a human.
WHAT A FN SCUMBAG!!!!!!!!
The cop was within the law to shoot and kill the huskie and I would have done the same. I have shot and killed an aggressive dog for threatening me a few years back. It would just take a second for that husky to sink his teeth into somebodys arm/hand and caused real harm and expensive medical treatment. The owners of the husky are the ones who should be in jail and charged for possession of a dangerous animal. No sympathy whatsoever for the husky or husky owners. You own an aggressive animal then dont cry when your dog gets capped.
Everyone knows cops are unstable, and should not be walking around ARMED on their days off!
NICK: You’re an idiot. Dumber than a turnip!
Dogs are unpredictable. They are animals. Animals are not human beings. We as humans want to think we are humane. However, there seems to be a double standard. I am sick of hearing about people being killed by attacking dogs and we say oh that is so sad. I want the State of Tennessee to ban pit bills. If an animal (dog) comes at my family or me and attacks, the attack dog is toast.
Having been the victum of a dog attack and having a dog killed by another dog within seconds right in front of me, I do not think the officer was in any way out of line. I still have nightmares and grieve for my dog.
300 plus comments.none of which were at the scene.where are you compassionate people when priest are butbanging alter boys where was your outrage then.its a freaking dog.period no more no less.they were brought over as tools.hunting herding guarding.poorly trained dogs at a offleash dog park.thats your problem.a properly trained dog will sit and stay when told.should he have shot it maybe not.was he justified probably so.but i nor most wasnt there.maybe the law officer should file suit against the dogs owner for not having properly trained his dog. the mental anguish of having to shoot it.should be worth quite a few grand.
The” cop” is on administrative leave.. where he should be. I don’t want anyone THAT stupid attempting to protect anyone else.
He panicked … and pulled a 9 mil on a dog in a DOG PARK.
He’s a MORON and needs to be, at best, DISarmed.
hannah Everyone knows a officer is never off duty.i bet your a Rhodes Scholar?
WoW! there is always two sides of the story, I would of done the same thing.
Nick…I’m an officer.. and when I’m at a dog park, I’m OFF DUTY.
The majority of comments show complete ignorance of canine handling and behavior in the “real world.”
If you don’t have the skills of the dog whisperer ,or complete confidence with aggressive dogs, then you should not attempt to break up a dog fight. They are violent, dangerous events. Dogs will bite their handler in a dog fight.
If your aggressive dog advances on mine I have the skills to intervene – I will beat your dog with a stick and place it in avoidance drive. This event is TOTALLY the fault of the attacking dog’s owner!
The officer was 100% correct in his action for a person without a high level of skills – a bullet to the head of your attacking dog! Protect yourself using whatever means!
This is a shame and should not have happened. I lived in Alaska and dog mushed for years. The dog lot I helped out at had 66 dogs. I can’t count the number of times I saw 2 or 4 dogs fighting. All you do is start grabbing dogs by the tail and swinging them out from the center of the fight. I never had a fight last longer than about 90 seconds. If that agent has that much fear, maybe he souldn’t carry a gun.
The owner of the dog should had paid more attention to his dog.But he either didn’t or refused.Thats why his dog was shot.Too bad
I think most people justifying this behavior are forgetting the facts. It is an OFF LEASH DOG PARK. Rules should be read and researched before going into a dog park. Everyone keeps saying “the dogs must be under control”. There is some room for error here people and bringing a GUN into a dog park or ANY park is unacceptable. This is trigger happy behavior and quite disturbing. Are people blind to this?
it was an OFF LEASH PARK.
the owner of the German Shepherd kept his dog ON A LEASH. Hence, he was in the wrong.
Keeping your dog on a leash within an OFF LEASH PARK is at the height of ignorance. It has a large affect on pack dynamics and makes the leashed dog a target (similar to having a kick-me sign), as well as making the leashed dog feel defensive (similar to having your hands tied behind your back in a wrestling match).
The off-duty cop is completely in the wrong.
You all need to get some training on when the use of deadly force is appropriate. Police and civilians operate under the same laws, and frankly, you all don’t know what you are talking about.
Yes, I am sorry to hear that Bear-bear was shot. I don’t want to see any animal hurt, I have dogs and cats of my own. But, any time someone can reasonably articulate that they are in imminent fear of serious bodily injury for themselves or another human close by, deadly force may be used.
I am a police officer and this is how we are trained. I also train civilians in the Concealed Carry permit for Colorado and civilians are trained the same way.
I know that some of you live in a world where all animals are warm and fuzzy. Stop getting your world view from TV, and learn something about the world you live in.
“bruce willis” – too bad you have no idea what you are talking about. you are a disgrace if you think deadly force is authorized in a dog park.
know what he could have done? left the dog park.
also, his dog had ZERO cuts or any other markings. how does that justify deadly force?
it doesnt.
Off duty oficer carrying a gun in a dog park what’s wrong with this picture. Just because he’s officer doesn’t give him the right to execute poor Bear. I have several dogs and they always get into fights with each other but never to the point of requiring vet care. It looks vicious but its their way of letting the others know who’s incharge but in the end they all get along just fine. Take the guns out of the gun happy police officers, prison time and a STIFF fine is required here, I can think of a better way but thta’s not gonna happen!
If the officer is telling the truth this is so dumb- Why would anyone be upset over someone protecting themselves and their own dog? What about the dog who was bitten? Your silly arguments only stand if he was lying. And why would anyone want to put their job in jepoardy because they were “trigger-happy”? Even an idiot could see what a mess that would make for themselves. If he is telling the truth I would have done something very similar. In fact- I have. And I have had animal lovers criticize me as well. What would you do if a dog was lunging and biting at someone you loved? You’d pull the gun. That’s what.
Sorry folks, but I have to go with the officer on this one. The comment “dog fights rarely result in death” is not true. My neighbor was walking her sweet German Shepard (on a lease) when a pit bull (why are these dogs not outlawed) attacked her with no provocation! The pit bull latched onto the Shepard’s neck and would not let go. The Shepard died as a result of the neck wounds.
Christina –
the officer probably is telling the truth. that he thought his dog was being attacked. but was it? im sure he THINKS that. but that probably wasnt the case. if i think something, does that make it true?
the FACTS is that he brought his dog on a leash into an off leash park. i cant stress enough how stupid and irresponsible that is. HE is the reason for everything.
I am a firm advocate that animals have the same rights humans do and, for that reason I feel very strongly the officer should go to jail for murder or some such equivalent. Bear-Bear had every right to be in that park and should have been off the leash when the 9owners let him into the enclosed area ~ if it’s like the park in Menands. For an OFF-DUTY officer to use his gun in a situation such as this is uncalled for and definitely, if not already illegal, should be!!! My condolences to Bear-Bear’s family. I know what it’s like to lose a beloved member of your family. Even though our pup lived 13 yrs & 3 mos., it was still too soon to lose him.
theotherside-
how is that in any way similar to what happened in this case?
I am sure he is on administrative leave with pay. Was the officers dog evaluated by a vet to see if indeed it did had been bitten? How about the dog that has been shot? The officer should have his animal removed and he and his wife should be forbidden to own animals for teh rest of their lives
.
I have a conceal and carry permit. I have a 9 lb chihuahua if your dog attacks my small dog a hollow point bullet will make its debut.
I think it’s clear the officer went too far. Apparently this kind of thing does happen at dog parks and shooting a dog sounds extreme. Dogs fight. Killing someone else’s beloved pet is not the way to go about defending your own unless there is no other way. I doubt the officer was really threatened and did overreact. He should be brought to task for egregiously overstepping his bounds.
maria – the cop’s dog was examined. no markings whatsoever.
“Trained in the use of deadly force”? LOL.. in a dog park?
If Quick DrawMcGraw was so scared in a dog park that he was carrying a 9mil, maybe he should have STAYED HOME.
Then again, maybe BearBear really WAS a heavily armed terrorist wearing a dog costume.
This story is so terrible. That cop needs his badge taken away now!!!!!!!!!! Cops have a reputation to uphold and leaving him on duty makes them look bad. Why would you want someone who makes HORRIBLE and RASH decisions like that? Who knows what he would do in an ACTUAL threatening situation…and not something like this where 2 dogs may have been PLAYING too rough. Plus he was “off duty”. What happens when he’s actually “on duty”???? Will he just walk around killing 2 people if they are fighting? My God, where does this end?? They were at a dog park…the dogs were most likely getting to know each other..they will play and sniff and if they get too rough, that is them determining which is dominant, one will eventually back down–and if one doesn’t then that’s when you interfere WITHOUT a damn gun. Plus, they are bigger breeds..they are going to play rough. This message goes to Mr. Keith Shephard himself (in case your jackass eyes come upon this): YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE YOUR DOG ON A LEASH WHEN THERE ARE OTHER DOGS AROUND THAT ARE UNLEASHED. IT MAKES THE OTHER DOGS ESPECIALLY EXCITED AND WANT TO PLAY EVEN MORE. A little common sense would do you some good. If you are going to be a pet owner, then freaking learn more about them!!! Do some research. I am almost at a loss of words, I am just in awe. I know there are always 2 sides to the story…HOWEVER even if Bear Bear did “bite” or “scratch” or “play too rough” with his dog, there is NO need for a gun to be involved. This cop, Keith Shephard, must be mentally retarded (excuse me if that isn’t the politically correct term) to not think about the situation before hand. I have NO sorrow for him if anything bad happens to him. He knew he had a reputation to uphold…even when you aren’t on duty you have a reputation!! Did he really think shooting a dog, even if it did end up living, wouldn’t get this much attention and press? Freaking moron. I started researching cops killing dogs and there are too many to even talk about. What is going on in this world? Some people, like myself, view their dogs and other animals as CHILDREN. I am so thankful something like this didn’t happen to myself, I don’t even know what I would do..and I never want to find out…but my heart goes out to this specific family/Bear Bear and anyone else’s who had some arrogant a-hole cop do something as terrible as this. May you rest in peace Bear Bear…and to the parents of Bear Bear, I hope this case has a good outcome so you can be at some peace…..but as for you Mr. Keith Shephard..may you NEVER find peace with yourself for doing this to an innocent animal. I hope you lose your badge. I hope you remain jobless for the rest of your life. I hope if you do get a job..that it’s picking up dog crap at some park…But let’s hope that park has metal detectors set up at the entrance. I am sure Mr. Shephard has enough threats on him, and I am not going to sit here and write up some physical threats..I will leave that to others that are as angry as myself. However, I really do hope you have nightmares and never live this event down.
Typical power hungry cop, carrys a gun to intimidate people, he was probably short and had the “little man complex”
I hope they hang him from his you know whats !(gum balls)
I completely agree with Nick. It is a dog, human beings are being murdered all over this country everyday. Prime example the city of Chicago. I am willing to bet all you “my dog is like my child” haven’t been nearly has appalled and outraged. Really people IT IS A DOG, get your priorites straight.
Mimi… I’m sure they are literally thousands of places to vent your anger over human beings being murdered..
Why don’t you go find one? Or did you just want to revel in your righteous indignation?
How many of you were there? Ever seen a dog attack? How can you all pass judgment if you weren’t even there? Douchebags.
mimi- ‘it is a dog’ doesnt account for anything. what if i came and shot your dog? would you be pissed? or would you just say “oh well, it is a dog”
john – you seem okay with passing judgment, yet you have no clue. seems like a pretty bad dog attack, with no bite marks at all….ignoramus.
Just a quick note to the officer involved in the shooting:
I have been in more than a few “bar fights.”When they were over or broken up there was blood, stitches were required, sometimes bones were broken. no one watching wondered if it was a play fight. I have dogs, once in a while they disagree with each other and they fight, there is blood, stitches are required, so far no broken bones. I don’t wonder if they are play fighting. When they are play fighting there is no blood, no stitches, no wounds of any kind and no need to kill either of them.
Breaking up a dog fight can be intimidating. My wife an I have pulled them by their tails enough to lift their feet of the ground, dumped cold water on them, tried pushing a piece of lumber between them and lifting the dogs off the ground. Some times some things work, some times they don’t. If you can get their heads under water this always works. Again, I have never tried shooting them. But then again I never felt fear for my life either.
I wonder if this officer still cries when someone yells at him.
This story is still very sad. I live in Md and I live not far from Severn. I have a purebred Siberian Husky, and he sometimes goes overboard when he plays around. When he and I play, he forgets his strength sometimes, and bites my hand a little too hard. He never breaks skin though, but still it does hurt. It’s not anything they can control, because it’s their nature. I love my dog, and it would kill me if someone did that to my dog. My mom got a german shepard from the pound, and at first we thought the two would get along, but my dog thinks he’s the alpha, and he tried to prove his dominance to the german shepard. My mom managed to push my dog out of the way with her body weight, long enough for me to grab him by his collar, and pull him backwards. I don’t think that cop really tried that hard to break up the fight. And I don’t think he gave the owner’s brother enough time to get to Bear-Bear. Had he given him enough time, this tragedy would’ve never occurred. That is my belief.
Willis: “but, any time someone can reasonably articulate that they are in imminent fear of serious bodily injury…”. The crucial word is “reasonably”. It does not appear that it was reasonable to believe any humans were in imminent danger of injury, nor any dogs. I have been in fear of my life in the past in certain interactions/places in the past, but that didnt give me the right to shoot up the neighborhood, my fear was exagerated and I knew it.
While I recognize that all pet owners lover their animals. I have to say that the comment by Planet Earth is on point. All of this emotional rhetoric that is being spewed comes from a place of ignorance. It is highly doubtful that while watching a Husky attack your dog, your first thought is “Isn’t Bear Bear cute he’s trying to get to know my dog”. Your first reaction is to safeguard yourself and your pet from a dog who may do harm whose owner clearly can’t control him. Bottom line you are still responsible for your dog’s actions whether in a dog park or not. If Bear Bear had actually injured another dog, then would you bleeding hearts have been calling for the execution of his owner?
Mimi- have you ever been to an off-leash dog park? do you own dogs? do you own large dogs? if you answered no to any of those, perhaps you are the ignorant one.
planet earth and yourself are ignoring the facts and imposing your own.
the dog was in an off-leash dog park. that is key. dogs are not supposed to be ‘in control’ (i.e. on a leash) in an off leash park. off-leash parks exist so dogs can release energy by playing and interacting with other dogs.
the cop was in the wrong. he kept his dog on a leash within the off-leash park.
and if injuries resulted to either dog from the incident, it would be treated as any other dog fight. with no dog getting shot.
No marks on anyone… no blood at all.. not even a nip. Not a scratch.
That must’ve been some vicious dog attack.
Like someone said, better hope that this idiot doesn’t have a kid run over to his kid and push him down.
BANG!
The “cop” has been put on administrative leave. I don’t care where they put him as long as he’s not armed and walking the street.
Thank god for civil court.
Sounds to me like the agent was right. His dog was on a lease and the husky was unleased and biting evrything he could get a hold of. The owner of the husky should have tended his dog better than he did. I keep my dog on a lease when were walking for his protection. He is a big overgrown “baby” and if a dog came after him, and the owner wouldn’t help, I would shoot him also. I think endangering the public is nonsense. That’s just a cop out, trying to layer a problem with another problem, to justify there position. Any, the moral of the story is, keep control of your dog. Standing with your hands on your hips, saying, ” gosh, I didn’t think my dog would do that!” isn’t going to get.
Jim – you obviously didnt read/understand anything.
it was an UNLEASHED dog park.
John> wtf are you talking about? Cops carry guns all the time on and off duty and in public places all the time! Remember when the active shooting walked into the salt lake city mall? The off duty officer that was carrying a gun returned fire and saved the lives of many others. I would have shot it to if he bit me or my dog. Seconds feel like hours in a traumatic situation. You people are morons especially this author
indeed, the gun is fine to carry if he is authorized to carry.
but his use of said firearm was in very poor judgement.
and the dog did NOT bite him OR his dog. there were no bite wounds anywhere to be found.
It was a very unfortunate circumstance. From reading the article through, the owner’s brother was at the dog park so does that mean that the owner wasn’t actually there too? It’s almost an assumption that dog parks can be great places for the dogs to romp, but as other commenters have mentioned, problems can pop up easily. Not everyone has the skills or strength to break up a dogfight or watches the Dog Whisperer show for such information.
Some cops are just wired that way: solve everything with your gun. (And many get away with it.) This is why they want to be cops in the first place – shoot people, shoot animals, call it your job.
Hopefully, this pathetic idiot will face a judge and pay for his total lack of discrimination in handling a common situation.
A Fed. Officer with a German Shepard shows up at an off leash park and another dog attacks his dog? Was the Ger. Shepard dog a trained attack dog? Did the Huskie smell trouble with a Fed. trained G.S.? Maybe those questions could be considered.
unless you visit dog parks and/or own a large dog, you probably shouldnt be commenting on this situation.
dog parks have problems that crop up, but mostly they are over in 10 seconds and the dogs sort out the pack. i’ve never seen any damage done in a dog park.
the biggest problem in a dog park is normally owners not picking up poop.
@JANE….ITS OBVIOUS YOU ARE MARREID TO A COP OR ARE FAMILY WITH ONE. THIS IDIOT ACTIONS WERE WRONG AND YOUR KNOW IT…SO IF YOU DON’T LIKE COMMOM SENSE DONT GIVE YOUR OPINION…POOR BEAR….AND I DON’T EVEN LIKE DOGS….
My dog and I get attacked by other dogs all the time in my neighborhood. I don’t shoot them because I’m not a frightened little weasel; I’m a man with pride that understands sometimes you have to bleed a little.
Many cops are just government sanctioned criminals;this case is just one more demonstration.
Seems like the shooting officer is keeping an eye on us…how flattering!
(27) Planet Earth says:
Attn. Wack Jobs:
Train your dogs. It is your responsibility to have constant control of you animal. If your dog is “dog aggressive” and is apt to attack other animals, keep it on leash and under your physical control.
I have a concealed carry permit and if your dog attacks mine (which is always under my control), I will end your dog’s life immediately and I doubt I would have a moment of regret. I any second thoughts I would have, would be for a dog that did not have an owner who properly trained and took responsibility for it. The death will be your fault, not mine. I have the legal right to protect myself and those I care about.
If any of you had a bit of sense, you would recognize that the husky’s owner is the one at fault. If the dog was under the owner’s control, there would have been no problem. I feel bad for the off-duty officer who was put in an unfortunate position due to the irresponsible actions of others.
The comments of this board reflect a group of people who have no concept of responsibility and write responses devoid of reason but overflowing with emotional nonsense.
No shortage of trembling little cowards with guns. If you can’t handle an 80 pound dog with your bare hands, stay home. The rest of us will make the world safe from big mean dogs for you sweetie.
That jerk never should have taken a loaded gun to a dog park in the first place. He was off duty. The husky’s handler was not even given a chance to do anything. The shooting came before he had a chance to. There are less lethal ways of dealing with dog issues.
Whoa, whoa, whoa people. That cop only has 2 balls. There’s not enough room for all of you to swing from them. I just love to see all the witty bitches on here with thier hurtful comments. Any of you tough guys or girls care to leave an address? Didn’t think so.
Police officers are allowed to carry their guns AT ALL TIMES. They are charged with protecting the public even when off duty, so many carry their weapons in the event something bad happens.
That being said, it is disheartening that someone who owns a dog doesn’t understand basic dog behavior (rough playing vs. actual attacking). My dogs have their mouths wrapped around each others necks all the time in their rough housing, but never harm each other.
If you aren’t around your animal enough to know the difference, maybe you shouldn’t own one.
Hey Siberian Saint I don’t see your address anywhere.
Talk is cheap but it takes money to buy whiskey.
Name the place.
to Planet Earth.
I hope I catch you at a dog park, If you ended my dogs life, I would kindly end yours. And then go after your family. I would start be tying you up and killing your family one be one while you watched.
Thats essentially what this police officer did. If your not allowed in a park after dark, how come your allowed to carry guns into a place were children would be playing.
This police officer must have been a pu*sy, I know I can handle a german shepard. Any real man can break up a dog fight using his bare hands.
This man doesnt respect life. His justice should be for the other owner to come and shoot his dog right in front of him.
to planet green
i also carry and would end your life the second you pulled the trigger. just as you said to protect my dog. you have made it very clear to me my dogs life is more important then yours. i woulndt harm your dog he cant help hes owned by an idiot who thinks a gun solves all problems. read the facts off leash dog park no history of aggression moron holding onto leash of his dog he could have pulled his dog out.so when you think you need to shoot a harmless dog better look around and pray its not mine or me even in the same place cause you will need a coroner.
Mr Piper Lakun
Maybe you don’t really need to take it out on the family. They already suffer enough just living with him.
What do you think happens if his eggs are a little over done? I’ve met my fair share of guys who feel tough when they think they have the advantage. But they all wet their pants before it’s over.
It’s not the family’s fault. I am sure he keeps them on a leash too.
How tragic. You don’t need a gun to break up a dog scuffle!
good shot.
I don’t even like dogs, cats either, but see where this is wrong on so many levels. Once again we have a trigger happy cop that lugs around his weapon, or A weapon, when he is off to the park so his dog can get some exercise. Law enforcement agencies do not need these type of enforcement officers. They live to shoot. So many things could have gone wrong. There should be some punishment for the shooter, that is a given.
How can he get away with this you ask? Because he is a federal officer. Don’t we all know a badge gives you the right to do anything in this country these days?
You got to kiddiing me, if a dog attacks another dog and bites it and also bites that dogs owner what the heck do you expect!! I do not want dogs that bite other dogs and people around. Too many people have dogs that do not control them!! I have a dog and a cat and if they attacked someone they would not be around for long!
To all those who stated their outrage regarding Bear, was anyone there? Did anyone see this happen? How can you be so ready to point the finger when you did not see it? If this had been a pit bull story, would anyone be outraged? I doubt it.
I think people should wait for the outcome of the investigation before their start claiming moral outrage. Get rational you guys.
I was bitten by my own dog of 14 years when I tried to break up a fight, and was given 6 stitches. You can bet I lied to the Hospital as well, or I would have come home to a dead dog because of Cops like these.
Next time, I will use a boot instead of my hands!
As for the Officer, he WILL get the same treatment himself some day. Karma, baby…
TYPICAL OUT OF CONTROL COP—-FEARED FOR HIS LIFE
I’ve never met an intelligent cop.
Hell, I have a concealed carry permit and if I see a dog running off-leash around my rural home it’s soon a dead dog. Period!
Will all of you people just “CALM DOWN”!! 1ST: None of us were there to “SEE” what happened (or did not happen)2nd: Who,in thier right mind,is going to try and break up a BIG DOG fight with just thier bare hands??? 3rd: As a dog(or ANY animal)owner,”YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ACTIONS OF YOUR PET”!!….You think not? Let your dog bite someone(especially a child)and you’ll see how responsible you are!!!4th: The park is provided for ALL DOGS…not just the largest,smalliest,meaniest,most docile,good looking,ugliest,etc…etc…etc.And 5th: We all know the personality of our dogs,if your dog is prone to be a little or a lot unruley,unpredictable,high stung,and certainly in any way vicious,doesn’t matter what kind of park you are in…”KEEP YOUR DOG ON A LEASH”!!!!! COMMON SENSE PEOPLE!
Dog parks are the worst place to take your dogs. They were created in Berkeley,CA by a group of lazy dog owners that wanted nothing more then to anthropomorphize their dogs, into happy hour bar room idiots. Dog are a pack animal, but the pack should be their family not random dogs and people at a park that provides no structure. Pack animals naturally have conflict with their same species of other packs. Not to mention dog park are open air sewers, and hot beds for your dogs to get a variety of diseases and infections.
Be a responsible pet owner and just say no to dog parks.
A few things:
1. We have always owned multiple dogs and there have, at times, been vicious fights. However, we’ve never had to use a gun to pull apart two fighting dogs, no matter how large. Yes, they have left deep and expensive wounds, but there isn’t any reason why Bear-Bear’s owner should not have been over there, pulling his dog off the officer’s dog.
2. Given that, I believe the officer used excessive force. But I also think that Bear Bear’s owner failed to act in a swift and decisive manner as well. Had he shown the other dog owner that he was also interested in resolving the conflict, his dog would be alive.
3. I work for cops and they’re, by and large, good guys. Yes, there are bad eggs in every group: Plumbers, musicians, reverends, whatever. But a wholesale rejection of police officers is pretty inaccurate and short-sighted, particularly if you’re the one on the business end of a crime. They don’t make tons of money and they have to hear this crap all the time, so if you’re going to insist on spewing it, then you must resolve never, ever to use their services again. But the people that grouse about them the most, in my experience, are the ones who also call them the fastest.
Well all the gun control and animal lovers are out in force weeping over a dog that bites. One guy has a wife who was bitten twice? That dog needs to be “put down”.
I grew up on a farm and love animals but people who defend dogs that bite never dealt with tetnus or rabies.There was a home owner in Princeton NJ who had dogs that were vicious and finally mauled a couple yard workers. Somehow the bleeding hearts convinced the judge to let the dogs live. Then they severly mauled his mother-in-law and the guy had the nerve to LIE about what happened to the hospital and police. The owneer had the dogs put down by a vet and went on TV sobbing about his loss. There was very little sympathy and the lawsuits ensured he is very broke for the future.
My 8-yr old niece was in a dog park with her Cairn Terrier, on a leash. A Huskie-mixed dog jumped her dog, ripped off his ear. A Mastiff, female, stepped in between my niece and the attacking dog. The owner of the Mastiff called for the police when the mixed dog attacked my niece in her face & throat. The Mastiff challenged the attacking dog and kept him off my niece, but not without him attacking again, her dog. Police came and shot the attacking dog, wounding him, but he didn’t stop biting. The had to kill the offending dog. My niece had to have over 100 stitches on her face, lost her eyebrow, part of her lid, and a piece of her nose and lip. She had to have over 6 surgeries to repair the damage–still isn’t right. Her dog lost his ear and parts of one leg (muscle and two toes). If it wasn’t for the Mastiff standing ground and keeping the dog off her, the vet said she could have easily lost her life. All of you are questioning a second of time in sympathy of animals over the life of humans. Dogs are animals & if they can’t be controlled by the owner, should not be allowed off the leash in any park.
What. A. Psycho.
If he shot my dog, I’d shoot him.
The officer clearly has a small penis. He took it out on the dog. He should have shot himself and given his wife the chance to enjoy a not so small penis. Unfortunately, this sort of thing happens all the time.
Chill out, people! When I was young, I was attacked by a Dalmation who jumped the fence and came after me. I was ten…and fifty years later I still bear the scars. I eventually got over my fear of dogs, and actually came to love and appreciate them….but if an unleashed dog attacked my LEASHED dog, and then me, there is no reason on this planet why I would have to wait to see just how much damage the dog can do before I am allowed to defend myself with whatever I have handy.
“Off leash” dog parks, as far as I am aware, require that the owners still be in control of their animals…and that does NOT mean that they are allowed to attack other dogs or people. In other words, that off duty policeman had every right to defend his own dog and his own life…that he managed to prevent injury to both his dog, his wife and himself is a GOOD thing.
So now a bunch of people who wouldn’t so much as send a sympathy card if this policeman were bitten, or his wife injured, or his dog killed, are threatening his career and perhaps even his freedom because he DEFENDED himself?
Since when it is more important to protect the life of an attacking dog, even when it DOES have a cutsie name like “Bear Bear,” than the life and safety of the dog and people it attacks?
No, I’ve BEEN there; dogs have bigger teeth than we do, and they are a lot more willing to use them, and we can’t bite them back…hence the gun, and good for the cop.
ever wonder why people hate cops? the fact that he goes to an off leash park with his dog leashed is a clue he is not very clever. then feels he needs to shoot and kill a dog for playing with his dog. sounds like he was looking for trouble and wanted to show off and bully citizens.
Dogs are scary. Cats FTW!!!!
I believe what the officer was right, after reading some comments. Why:
1) The owner of Bear should have had enough time to take the dog away from the pother dog.
2) What if he didn’t? Asia could have been killed, and people might have been attacked afterwards.
3) He is a officer, and if a animal shows threat to other animals or humans, and in a human populated area, it has to be put down.
He might be wrond though.
hey diana, what were you doing to that dalmation that agitated him to the point of biting you? dogs can judge people quite well, and are able to spot mean haters like you. the cop and you are from the same mold. hate filled people who like hurting life, rather than loving it.
The officer reacted appropriately. I find it stranger the poster did not say if it were proven if the officers dog was bitten or not. I am assuming the police looked to verify the story by looking for injuires to the officers dog. If they found dog bites, then case closes. Bear Bear was an aggresive dog that picked the wrong dog to attack. Dont let emotions cloud logical thought. This man is trained to handle dangerous situations and his traning came through.
well, I have a 5 lb chihuahua and it tried to jump on another 5 lb pikanese (SP) and have it’s ummm way with it. It also bit the neck of the other dog.. while ummm you know, and didn’t do anything at all to the dog. I approached it and so did the owner of the other dog and my dog stopped… growled, showed it’s teeth and nipped at the lady so furociously that she kicked it about 10 feet. I don’t blame her one single bit. The little sucker got fixed a day later (he was only 6 months old – we thought it too soon but evedently not). Point – When you attempt to interrupt a male taking his way with another female (or male – they get confused sometimes) you better have a shive, gun, or whatever because a 100 lb dog can tear you up very very fast. Poor bear, but bear may – i say just may, have been too big for a 10 ft kick.
This is too much. Our country kills babies through abortion and unglodly people say it is a good thing. A dog gets killed and evil people say it is a very bad thing. A man murders a woman or child in a henious way, and unglodly people say, o they are dead now, so let the killer have life in prison and get all his needs met, including enjoying his family and enjoying thinking about how he killed. You who commented on the poor dog, are discusting. The officer had a right to protect himself, his dog, his wife, but you say it was evil because you are evil minded. Nasty people.
I don’t own a dog, but I have a neighbor here in suburban Chicago who had two. One was a dalmation, the other a “shorpie”. Both have come over onto my property unleashed and acting in an aggressive manner towards me. On my property. I never did anything to either one.
By the way, folks, dogs ARE used for protection and are trained by owners (some, not all) to be aggressive.
I also firmly believe in my second amendment rights.
Period. One dog is on death’s door, the other died some months back, of natural causes. They are(were) both lucky I did not have a firearm with me when they came at me. Now, whose fault was that? Their owner does not have a fenced in yard (I do) and he obviously did not train them regarding their boundries
Dray24 # 443
OK, so you think it’s OK for an off duty cop to pull his gun and shoot another dog in a public park and shoot a dog who was OFF LEASH in an OFF LEASH dog park. I have two GSD’s who are great dogs, have never so much as nipped a person when afraid (as when dumb humans run over to play with them when they don’t know the dogs and vice-versa).
I have never felt the need to pack a firearm at a dog park, and I have never seen a macho impaired Federal Officer do anything so stupid in all of my years in allowing my dog freedom at the beach parks. You could have hit a person idiot!
Sure, any dog might play a little rough in a park, but I have never seen ANY dog full out attack another dog. (your dog will not die from a nip)
Sometimes dogs get very protective of their owners (or themselves) when on a leash in a no-leash park–dumb move!–they are afraid that with a leash on they will not be able to adequately protect themselves–a natural dog instinct–would you want to have to fight someone while tied up?? With a couple of dozen hard case gang bangers? That is how your dog feels!
This guy suffers from a bad case of cop-itis–that is when a cop pulls his gun or beats somebody up– just because he can–sometimes from fear, sometimes to demonstrate how big and bad they are.
They (the cops) haven’t figured out they are supposed to be protecting us! (the dogs get it) If you are so paranoid–keep your d@amned dog and your gun home !! Dogs scuffle, that is how they play and demonstrate dominance–He (Bear Bear) should have bitten the cop’s leg off!
There seems to be more to this than noted, there are alway three sides to a story: (side one was killed,) the other side (the shooter has stated,) and then we have (the truth?) I would like to do a profile on the shooter; to think it’s was that critical of a situtation to shoot an animal in a park that was set aside for the animal to react. I bet, this isn”t the shooter his first incident.
I’ve read this whole comment section, this is my take.
I read a lot, so far this year, I have clocked over 47.000 web pages, THIS IS NOT by any means, the first story I have read about a Cop shooting someone’s dog. Most of these stories, this could have been avoided, but in several of these stories it was in front of kids. Wtf, NO OTHER WAY TO HANDLE IT?? I do understand Cops got it tough. I still say, anyone who straps on a gun to go to work KNOWING they might have to kill someone or that someone may try to kill them, needs a pysch eval YEARLY
I question this Cop’s judgment leaving his dog on-leash in an off-leash park. I question the whiff I caught of his God complex for sure. I question the judgment of the officers responding in not allowing the owner to seek help for his animal. I question the owner letting his brother take this dog to this park without him but they are without their dog now because this Cop didn’t follow the RULE: take your dog off the leash.TO be fair, who knew a trip to the dog park would be deadly?
I think the ONLY reason this isn’t a ‘closed case’ is because so many people are calling the PD and complaining and DEMANDING an answer.
That’s as it should be. I hope they get it and I hope this man is called to account for his actions when the facts are all in. Sounds like he needs to be, especially if its true and he lied. We need officers who will shoot when needed and necessary AND not lie about it. Doesn’t really sound like the case here.
hey sophia, you protest at soldiers funerals dont you! we are talking about an ignorant cop who killed a dog needlessly and should be punished. not abortion and baby killing! you are on the wrong site i think!
You have to be kidding me? The man entered the park with his dog on lead. The other dog attacked his dog who was still on lead. He yelled for the owner of the aggressive dog to no avail. The man attempted to physically stop the husky from attacking his dog and the husky turned on him. Is that the whole story?
What does he have to do? Wait for the husky to injure his dog and family?
He made several reasonable attempts to stop the behavior and then decided to protect his family including his dog.
If the husky was a pit bull what would all of you PETA folks say?
Good riddance Bear Bear.
The officer should sue the owner of Bear Bear. I’m sure there are rules for the off lead park. The first is probably to control your dog at all times.
By the way, what is the owner of the husky going to say when asked if his dog has ever shown aggression? Yes? Ya right! His name is Bear Bear for goodness sakes.
A dog on a short leash is nearly defenseless. There was a Grant County, Washington Deputy who had this scenario happen on duty last year (except that he was at a place which requires dogs to be on leash).
He shot the aggressive dog too because his dog was trying to get back into the vehicle while on lead and under attack.
excessive use of force
I used to work for a mayor who was a SWAT member. I found that the police under him made their own rules. They lie – just like to rest of do at times – to get out of obvious trouble, and that they are ALWAYS believed just because they are cops. I quit that job, as it was not the honorable job I thought it was. A lot of government people are just control freaks; one of them shot that poor Bear Bear. I’m not saying all people in control are bad; I’m just saying there are truly mean people in control that shouldn’t be and this guy is one of them. Sick, sick, sick and sad, sad, sad.
My heart goes to the owners of Bear. I am really sorry that they lost their love one in this senseless tragedy. I also wondered the capacity of this police officers. Why, are they thinking have the right to take our pets away with a gun. As many of you have said. They should applied the law of the pack.
As a runner, I have found myself face to face with growling dogs that appear dangerous and ready to attack. I have been scared, but I tried not to show them my fear. Therefore, my primitive instint is to avoid looking at them and stopped in my heels. Every one of these dogs has come to me smelled me and have standed infront of me while barking. Until the bark starts loosing strenght and the dog looses interest, get bored and leave. Never they have bitten me. So, I do not understand how some people get bitten! I better knock in wood. I do love dogs.
that’s why there should be no leashed dog parks. a person has a right to protect his property hence is why our founding fathers created the” right to bear arms” so get over it. the dog attacked and so rightfully so it was shot. i would shot it as well. had this been a child the dog was attacking then everyone would be singing a different tune. like always, people mellowing in other peoples business. the dog is dead keep going with your lives people!
The actions were justified. The dog was aggressive and endangering the life of that of his fellow K-9 species and civilian population in the park. The officer’s professional instinct were to suppress anymore brutal mischief that may have escalated to a domino effect wild dogs fighting environment. Had the owner taken full responsibility to prevent his dog’s confrontations he would have saved his own dogs life. Everyone wants peace and harmony the officer provided that by taking down the culprit causing chaos in an nonviolent environment
That’s what happens when you let a PIG in a dog park.
I think the author of this article left out some important facts- was the german shepard hurt badly, or bleeding profusely? If the husky was acting agressively enough in an unprovoked fasion, the officer had every right to shoot the animal. If it was just roughhousing, it was obviously wrong to shoot. Unfortunately, its impossible to determine this from the information given.
For all you who are so fast to judge this officer…I would hate to be on trial and have any of you on the jury….You don’t know all the facts …it has only been one sided from what I have been reading. I sure hope you never have to experience what this officer did.
I know there are bad cops, but there are also many good ones..it is unfortunate that the bad are remembered more then the good…ones that saved lives by pulling them out of a burning building before the firemen came..or saved a child from and abusive parent..I could go on and on…but most of you don’t care about that stuff you just want to tear these cops down….think about that the next time you call out for help, from one of these brave men.
This sounds really ridiculous, I am sorry why would the people have taken a vicious dog to a dog park I find that hard to believe. The guy sounds trigger happy and like a nut, who should not be allowed to carry a weapon. My prayers are with the dog owner whose pet was shot.
Had to pipe in!
My first opinion…off duty police officers have every right to carry a gun! Truly a police officer is NEVER fully off duty. If a serious crime is happening right in front of them they have a duty to serve and protect. What if your mother is being mugged, you would want the officer to say sorry off duty? The only reason his career is coming into play is because most people are prejudice against them. Not all cops are good but the majority are.
From someone who has personally been attacked walking my dog…if I would have had my gun with my I would have shot the pit bull. My dog was a small lab mix and NO match for a pit…but together we were able to fend him off and I believe all the pit suffered was a broken rib or two.
There will never be a black or white answer here. If the officer felt his safety was being threated by a dog who would not listen to his owner then he had the right to shoot him. Some will say he over reacted….others will say he didn’t. Truly ONLY Bear Bear knows his intentions!
It would appear that the officer was justified in shooting the attacking husky. The husky’s owner is required by law to have his dog under control. The dog was not under anyone’s control and it was attacking another dog. The officer stated that the husky attempted to bite him as he tried to separate the dogs. He should not have to sustain significant bite wounds before defending himself and his own peaceable dog. The husky’s owner is free to sue in civil court if he thinks he has a case. I think he would lose and would probably face a countersuit for failing to control the deceased husky.
As to the question of whether it was appropriate for the officer to discharge his weapon in public, that was the trained officer’s judgment call. Was it safe? Well, there were no other injuries or property damage, so obviously it was. The officer would have been held liable for any damage or injuries caused by careless gun handling, but there were none.
As a long time gun owner and dog enthusiast, and after reading the details in this article I believe I have an informed enough opinion of the matter at hand to leave my thoughts on the matter.
1. As a long time gun owner I have long been familiar with the appropriate and inappropriate uses for fire arms. When it comes to the specific case of self defense, one’s reaction to any sort of attack is only justifiable if it does not trump the threat. Meaning that if for example someone calls you a nasty name or throws a soda bottle at you, shooting them in self defense is not an appropriate reaction. Knowing how dogs rough house a dog owner who does not want his pet to participate in such actions should not take said pet to a dog park where it will inevitably interact with other dogs, some of which may play fight with it. The idea that he could shoot a dog for running up to his dog and rough housing with it is unconscionable. It is inexcusable and I can only explain it as the callous and self-righteous action of a profoundly stupid and incompetent person. If you think that he was justified I would apply the same characteristic to you. You are profoundly stupid. You are incompetent. You should not be allowed to carry a fire arm.
2. Seeing that there were no injuries to either the shooter, his wife, nor his dog, his execution of that dog was clearly a case of animal cruelty at best, criminal negligence at the worst. If a dog draws blood it is attacking something. If it puts its open mouth over another dog or person it is play fighting. If you are too stupid to see this distinction you should not be allowed to own a dog.
3. To think that this man who is so unspeakable callous and downright stupid is allowed to carry a gun in the name of public safety, as an employee of not only the state but the PUBLIC CITIZENS of this country is a worrying thought indeed. This keystone Barney Fife cop should be fired without severance pay and charged to the full extent of the law. What he did was attack and destroy a private citizens property without adequate provocation or reason. This is not the type of person who should be allowed to PROTECT the public as he clearly has no idea how to do so.
4. An appropriate response. If you are the type to over react when you take your dog to an OFF-LEASH dog park and your dog is engaged in play fighting with another dog that you feel to be inappropriate the socially normal and correct response (baring a true attack that would draw blood) would be to MACE the offending animal. A simple, temporary, and to the greater extent NON-VIOLENT reaction that would both subdue the offending animal and leave it able to continue living its life. It is a logical response and one that would do no permanent damage to any party with the possible exception of damaging the offending dogs owners ego at worst.
There was no excuse for his behavior and to the people who are pulling the “he’s a cop give him a break response” that I see repeated time and time again on this forum I have one thing to say to you. You are profoundly retarded. You have no business going outside of your home, and for the sake of the general public I sincerely hope you contain your idiotic nerd rage to the internet where it can cause no real harm to society in general.
This same thing happened many months earlier to another dog owner and the Police officer (out of his jurisdiction) walked without a charge…
http://www.thereporteronline.com/articles/2009/01/22/news/srv0000004542026.txt
Clearly the office in the bear bear case could have moved his dog out of the park since his dog was still on lead. Pulling his gun and firing it endangered every creature there. I agree that the fact bear bear was shot in the back calls out for a more detailed look at the incident. I question the judgment of the officer involved and I am relieved that the investigation is reopened. Perhaps there is justice after all.
I am a dog owner and an animal lover. I have an Akita/Lab that is very social. He is called the gental Giant. If anyone did this to my beloved family member I would have to take the law in my own hands. I was in Law Enforcement for many years and to handle a situation like this was inhumane.
Poor Bear-Bear and his owners.
I had My neko at the park and a guy that was walking his doberman pincher pulled out a hammer and was going to strike my dog because he was walking up to his. I lost it. I am a female. I don’t think this guy realized who he was dealing with. I got in his face. He said he had put alot of money into his dog to show him. I told him I have put alot of money into my dog because I LOVE him. He is family. I don’t think he will ever rasie a hammer again. I told him he was carrying a concealed weapon. My dog is BEAUTIFUL. He looks like an Akita with a Lab face.
The Guy that killed Bear-Bear needs to be held accountable by law. I don’t care if he is a federal Agent or not. If you are going to take your dog to a dog park then he should not be on a lease. If you do not want other dogs coming up to your dog take them somewhere else. I feel for his dog. If he is a Federal Agent then he could have gotten in between his animal and Bear. So what if he got bit. This makes me sick.
Humans like him are the reason I LOVE Animals MORE!!!!!!!
Animals do not do stupid things. They behave the way God created them. They don”t kill just to Kill. Humans do what ever they feel like doing. Animals are the Superior Being as far as I am concerned.
Whoever stated that the shooter should be investigated.. that this probably wasnt’ the first time he discharged his weapon inappropriately?
I bet you’re right.
I am a police officer who carries his gun 24/7 because I have run across individuals off-duty that I have arrested in the past. I am also a dog owner/lover. I have been bitten a total of 11 times , both on-duty and off-duty and have never once fired my weapon at the dog that had bitten me. I have been bitten on the arm, leg, ankle and buttocks. I don’t know what went through that alleged officer’s head at the time of the incident because I was not there but I DO know that I have been there and NEVER fired my weapon.
To all of you police haters out there – Like in every job/career, there are good and bad officers. Do not judge us by the actions of the few who make bone-headed decisions, but remember who you call when your family member is missing or someone has been shot or robbed. Those are the good officers who respond to those calls and put theie lives on the line everyday in an attempt to keep the streets safe for you to walk down and worry about someone waiting there to rob you.
A police officer knows better. How many dogs do they meet on a regular basis and they don’t shoot to kill. A responsible owner who is fearful of dogs fighting can carry HALT, a red pepper spray for dogs.
This is inexcusable.
Does the mailman carry a gun?
They have a spray.
If this officer can overreact to this degree when dealing with a dog problem, I would hate to see what he is capable of with a teenager.
He goes to an off leash dog park and he not only packs his pistol but uses it.
What a guy. A real credit to the police force in that town
So, this officer was supposed to stand by and let this out of control animal attack him, his dog, and his family. Since when to we put the life of a dog ahead of that of a human being. There is no logic in that. I would have done the same thing as the officer. The tragedy is that it was not the husky’s fault it was the irresponsible owners fault, the dog just had to pay the price, sad.
This story stinks to high heaven. Anyone who has ever seen two dogs fighting know this. You stand as good of a chance of hurting your own dog as not if you fire into two dogs fighting.
The best man I ever saw with a handgun, (my grandfather), was forced to shoot a ‘guard’ dog who had gotten out of his containment fence and literally crawled through the split rail to attack our dog. Now these two dogs were roughly the same size as the dogs in this article, our dog a white GSD named Sugar (I know real original, whaddya want, I name him when I was a little kid), and the part boxer/part rottie, (I will remember the way the dog looked snarling at me through his fence till the day I leave this Earth).
Plainly put Sugar was losing but he was putting up a valiant fight and I was screaming at my grandfather to do something. I come from a family where I heard the phrase “I would rather shoot a bad man than a good dog” more than once. We love animals so please believe my grandfather did not do this lightly… he shot the dog attacking Sugar. He had tried pulling them apart in the beginning and if it wasn’t for his old work cost would have needed stitches. Heck my brave little grandmother even tried turning the water hose on them but them. Point to all this? Sugar for the rest of his days went through life with several scars including a neat half moon notch in his ear. If was one of the few times it even looked like my grandfather might cry.
That cop executed an animal for no reason other than because he could and he felt a little scared. They should take that coward’s gun and badge. What a monster.
I doubt the officer would have done this for no valid reason. This is why there should not be dog parks, because of people who cannot or do not control their dogs. The husky is a victim of an irresponsible owner. A dog park has always seemed like a bad idea to me and this is why. Most towns require people to have control of their dogs at all times. Then they make a park where all rules null and void…….problems are bound to arise from this. I am thankful that i can provide a huge fenced yard for my dogs and its sad for those who dont…….but a dog park is just trouble waiting to happen. A bunch of stranger dogs let loose to sort it out. Most people dont have good enough control of their dogs for this, but they probably think they do. Trouble….Trouble……Trouble!!!
To the officer……..you did what you felt you had to do.
To the husky owner…….if you were a responsible dog owner, your dog would be at your side right now. Grow up and learn about resposibility.
I have a pit bull and was raised with german sherpards, my sister raises huskys and these dogs all have a rough way of playing. I think that for an officer to shoot a dog knowing himself how pets are loved and in a park where dogs can go free to play he used excesive force. He took his gun killed a dog no question asked dogs are humans too I really hate to think how he is on dutie. rest in peace bear.
Not one of us can judge the situation fairly. We did not see the altercation nor do we know the true size of the animals. The owner of the dead dog may have had the same attitude that a man who’s dog pursued me on my bicycle, grinning until I defended myself. Dogs need to be on a l leash in any public venue. Owners must take full responsibility for pets.
The trigger/power happy bully should be fired and NEVER allowed to carry a weapon – ever! Obviously he has no idea how to interact with other living beings; choosing the use force instead of his head to solve problems. I thank GOD! the object of his power hungry desire to kill wasn’t a human or a child! My consolences go out to the family of Bear-bear. I hope the authorities ban this monster from public contact by locking him up. He’s a danger to society!
How to stop a dog fight. Grab the aggressor by the base of the tail and pull him away. All that had to happen here was for someone to grab the husky by the base of the tail and pull him away from the leashed dog. Fight over, no shooting necessary. I have been rescuing Rottweilers for years and have broken up many a dog fight this way wihtout ever getting bitten.
If this guy was getting “attacked” how come there was NO blood, NO bite marks (on EITHER dog), and the “attacking” dog was shot in the butt? As in REAR END and not in the face.. where one might shoot a dog trying to kill you.
Let’s face it. .two dogs of that size would have left carnage everywhere if they were even remotely serious
Owners are responsible for their own dogs. If the dog attacks someone, they shouldn’t be surprised to find the dog with a bullet in it.
Even in an unleashed dog park, the owner has to be in control of their animal.
I would shoot the attacking dog if I were ever put in that same situation.
if you take your dog ON A LEASH into an OFF LEASH park, you are a moron who doesnt know anything about dog parks and/or dog pack dynamics.
the officer is completely at fault.
Lets think about this for a minute. While he had his dog on a leash, he walked into a off leash park, his dog got jumped, he tried to pull them apart and also asked for help, *then* made the call to shoot the dog. In that time his dog wasn’t injured while an attack grievous enough to make the officer shoot the dog was taking place. Really? Sorry I am not buying it. Sure this guy is a cop but lets be honest, cops get scared too and it sounds like this guy got scared and made a bad snap judgment.
Also, his GSD, are we talking a family pet or a trained police dog? He was on a leash sure, but what kind? Are we talking about a untrained GSD on a spooling leash and an inattentive owner? A leash doesn’t absolve someone of responsibility…
Charges filed in Anne Arundel dog park shooting
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/bs-md-dog-shooting-charges-20100818,0,3122835.story
Weak charges… but at least he WAS filed against.
I’m sorry folks….The Husky attacked and bit both another dog and a person. I’d have shot him myself, and I think that most people in the same situation would do the same if they had a gun. Who else reading this has ever been attacked by a dog? Years ago I was attacked by a German Shepherd and there is not much you can do to fight back…..
“A homicide may be considered justified if it is done to prevent a very serious crime, such as rape, armed robbery, manslaughter or murder.” (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justifiable_homicide)
There were no injuries on any of the parties involved except the executed dog – there is no way this was justified. If the executed dog were a person, the officer would be in jail or immediately arraigned. However, the murdered individual was a dog, so the officer will get a slap on the wrist (if that).
Sorry Jane I believe you’ve been misinformed. Try to relax and imagine a worls where all so called police are not perfect and don’t walk on water. You’re also mistaken in saying and believing that police put their lives on the line for us. They are putting their lives on the line for a paycheck. Otherwise, why don’t thety put their lives on the line for free. A complete overaction in the only explanation.
That’s great the officer shot the unruly dog. If you cannot control your pooch, don’t bring it to a dog park. The owner should have been aware and close enough to have done something.
OK. If this cop had a kid and took him/her to a park and another little kid jumped him/her do you think he would shoot it? Alot of people’s animals ARE their children. He completely overreacted and is a scary person. But personally, I think they think they can get away with murder. It goes like this, who do you think a judge is going to believe, YOU or a police officer? In any situation.
So it turns out this hero is a civilian gate guard at a military base. So why in the heck did he feel the need to carry a gun. A gate guard has no reason to carry a gun outside his job. And if he is anything like the retards that guard the AFB where i work, then we are all in trouble. i think there will be more on this story, and im sure we will find out he had no right to be armed.
I was once attacked walking my year old Pharaoh Hound in my yard by two Pitbulls that did not have collars or leashes on– thankfully my husband was with me and was able to pin one of the dogs down while I kept putting myself between my PH and the other Pit– (dumb perhaps but it only wanted my dog)… the owner ran up and grabbed the other Pit, but by the time it was all settled my dog had multiple bite wounds on his throat, chest, belly and legs…
It definitely scared me, I had nightmares about it for awhile. In an instance like that– if I had a gun I probably would have shot. If no one was there to get those dogs away from me I definitely would have… but the way this story sounds, makes it out that the officer was trigger happy and didnt give a chance to Bears owners to get him off their dog.
This individual who shot the dog…I hope he rots in hell. I hope his mother, father, entire family – live a terrible, miserable existance and all rot in hell. How about taking your dog and walking away. If I had been witness to this horrible scene, this man would have been taken to the ER. I would have honestly beat the living S_it out of him, no holds bar. I would glady go to jail if I could seriously beat this man down. You’d have to pull me off – I would not give up easily. A dog versus a gun. Again-put me in jail, I’d glady beat the living F out of this guy, he deserves it. I hope he gets shot in the line of duty…3 bullets to the head. Very deserving.
Sorry to say the cop is a liar. I have raised German Shepherds all my life and even if the huskey was aggressive, which I highly doubt, the shepherd would’ve easily been able to control the situation. That cop is an idiot and he was wrong and it’s sad that a dog has to die over a trigger happy cop!
another of our nations heroes at work….I had a cop here in Kentucky draw his weapon on my Lab{we all know how vicious Labs are}. This red headed clown is allowed to carry a gun around and make decisions on human life…..scary aint it. My dog was trotting up to him wagging every part of his body has Labs do when they are about to ATTACK. He certainly knows what I thought of his actions. There are great cops out there, but my fear is most are like this goof ball.
IF the dog was REALLY attacking the other dog it was NOT the dog who needed to be shot – but it’s owner!
MY dog was attacked by a dog in a park. It’s owner waited till I turned my back to pick up my dogs poops and sent the dog to attack.
Owner did this to several dogs in the Tracy CA park. both dog owners and Vet told me.
trigger happy loser!What,did Bear Bear pull a gun?Maybe he was threatening national security,dog terrorist?No wounds on cop or cops dog,or cop’s family=trigger happy fear,what a puss!
Why a gun? If you worry about dog attack–and mine have been attacked by pit bulls more than once–you carry a strong pepper spray. I have a concealed weapons permit, but I would never carry to the dog park, nor try to shoot another dog. What if the owner had started a fight and he’d shot him, too? This sounds like fear-based aggression on the shooter’s part. He deserves to be tried.
I think Keith would have been spitting teeth out before the responding officer showed up.
Stay away from dog parks. They’re nasty. Just plain nasty. Would you put your kid in there? Find another place. Dog parks are filthy and downright mean places. “I only pick up after my OWN dog … ” Sure. Sure you do. Uh-huh. Yeah. If tempted to go, do it on a really cold windy rainy day. Nobody’s there. But there’s always the parasite problem, intestinal flagellates, and ringworm to consider. Oh, and antibiotic resistant Staph. Have a nice day.
Dogs are animals, not humans. Their intelligence level is less than pigs, of which 99% of dog lovers posting here foster the killing. Dog meat tastes pretty OK too and is regularly consumed in many cultures.
The LEO seems to have erred in the first place (in taking in firearm and not going off leash) and most likely over-reacted in the shooting (impossible to know given the lack of all details but it seems that it was play that should have been able to be broken up non-fatally even if the owners brother was inattentive).
But, what really disturbs me is equating dogs to people. They aren’t.
Are you kidding me? You are responsible for your dog thus most states have leash laws…..The owner should have control of his animal at all times and the dog would be alive. If a dog tried to bite the officer and his dog he is in the clear to defend him self. Most officers have a knowledge not to shoot in the air preventing harm to civilians.
The dog should have been put down, even though it was an unleashed area you should keep your dog under control. Great shot from the officer. All you dog lovers need to grow up, put your dog on a leash or control it.
The dog was out of control. The victim was bitten by the dog and took action to protect himself.
What if the circumstances were changed and someone shot his dog? How would he feel them? I am a dog lover and have 5 dogs and 3 horses. He did not have to shoot the dog. This is outrageous. What if it was a civilain that did the shooting? He would have been arrested and put in jail. Why should this guy get special treatment?
clearly the cop has shown signs of madness and should be put down.
First off, some cops are REQUIRED to carry a weapon at ALL TIMES and are also ALLOWED by LAW to do so. If something was attacking your pet I’m sure you be happy to see a cop walk up. To all those who are mad about this, say the dog attacks one of your kids. I guess you IDIOTS would want the cop to stand there and say, “bad dog, stop biting that little kid’s head off” MORONS! (and that goes for you too Ms.Stregowski, you are clueless)
people who dont own dogs and/or have never been to a dog park should refrain from commenting. you look real stupid.
And for those of you without reading skills.. the “cop” was NOT bitten.. his dog was NOT bitten.. his wife was NOT bitten.
Let’s hope no kid ever “attacks” his kid on the playground.
BANG!
and to repeat again, it was a FENCED-IN, OFF-LEASH DOG PARK.
in which the cop had his dog ON A LEASH. this is the single most important fact in this whole case.
it is against OFF LEASH dog park rules to have a dog ON A LEASH. it causes problems, it makes the dog on a leash defensive/submissive, and the other dogs dominant.
I wonder what this guy’s wife thinks? And in the future, maybe he should think about some mace, or perhaps a taser, when he approaches these “life threatening” situations. I mean, of course, once he gets out of jail for his animal cruelty, firarms, and stupidity charges.
Unfortunate for all concerned.
1. get all the facts first
2. not all firemen or ems people are decent, either
3. most police are decent people and are put in harm’s way almost every day
4. 99.99% of you apparently never graduated from “spelling or grammar” school
gotta love online grammar nazis.
this cop is nuts he needs professional help
What a jerk! He needs more than a slap on the wrist, I hope they can bring a civil suit against him! I take FOUR large dogs to the dog beach here, and I have seen minor scuffles, but NEVER anything to warrant harming a dog. It is supposed to be a safe haven, not a shooting range. Sounds like he should be an officer in New Orleans!
Hello,
Sounds like another “Trigger’ Happy Cop Over-reacting to a situation that was blown out of proportion.
“Never Trust A Cop ” !
The cop had hallow tip bullets know as cop killer at the park. he was not injured nor was his dog. i have lost all respect for cops after too many bad situations in the paper. cops planting pot in a 94 year old ladies house after they accidentally killed her! they refuse to police themselves.
I live in DC and the cops here are fat and rude. I laughed at the prof bates cop thing near harvard because i am white and the cops would have done the same thing to me. when people cry racism when its not it dilutes the charge for when its real racism
The other night I caught my wife in bed with my best friend.
We argued and argued, and I threw her out the house.
What about my best friend you ask, well I went up to him and told him “Bad Boy, Bad Boy” he licked my hand and then we went out for a walk…
Notice to all Cops:
When going to a Dog Park, or any place for that matter, don’t forget to take your tape measure, to make sure you are not within 100yards of a residence, prior to discharging your firearm in public.. Good excuse for not wanting to get involved when it comes time to help someone when they need it.
Also, don’t forget to also use “It was a public place, you were worried about the children playing or across the street, etc.” forgeting the above will get you indicted for cruelty to animals /people……..Let the public call on the Dog Lovers to defend the Public…….
It was not this persons job to protect the public. he is not a COP. he is a security guard people, read the follow up stories. he had no need to be carrying a gun off duty. he put people at risk shooting in a park like a retard! he should have let the dogs finish playing and cry about it later.
jeesh. as C. Milan had put it, the first to be trained should be the owners. This off duty cop does not know how dogs would react. he didnt use owner instincts, he used officer instincts. whats going to prevent him from entering another doggie park and shooting another just because he is permitted to carry a gun. maybe he intentionally carried the gun because he was fearful of dogs when he entered the dog park thus the dog sensed it. if he knows anything about dogs… this guy’s an idiot. to me he’s right up there with that Rizzo guy, acting as if he’s above everyone else around him. Cops arent too mcuh ejumacated. There should be a website as well for animal offenders. Keith is number ONE!
people need to have CONTROL of their dog even when off the leash..The officer was protecting his dog and him self.. I guess some people would think that because its an off leash park it would be ok if he attacked a kid!!! To me he had every right to shoot the dog
In AZ you cant shoot a dog if its attacking another dog (i.e. yours). You can only justify by prooving that you were in danger and the only ways is by scratches and bites. If he has a bite on his hand, then obviously he tried to reach in, now if he had marks on his neck, torso and others, then thats a different story. Ive been around dogs my whole life and i have never seen a more doscile K9 than a husky. Sheperads are the same way, they will attack when they feel threatend. This federal officer did something or said something that isnt adding up. Just admit Mr. Shepard that you chose the wrong judgment that day and admit your mistake. You are as bad as the Glendale K9 officer that left his police dog in the car with no A/C in 100+ deg for 4 hours.
oh for crying out loud! what kind of person just shoots a dog?? how is that kind of extreme violence ever justified?? if you own a dog and if you frequent off leash dog parks then you know that dogs are pack animals and they behave differently when they are allowed to run free with other dogs, their dominant or submissive behaviours and instincts are manifested through their play. this guy is an irresponsible idiot and quite honestly should not be allowed to carry a gun, heave forbid that he starts shooting people for jwalking.
Good for the officer! Some dog owners think they are above keeping their mutts on a leash. I’m so glad the officer fought to protect the lives of himself and his wife. Sorry Bear-Bear! Should have paid more attention in doggy training school.
If this officer and his wife were on any other property besides an off-leash dog park, case closed: he had a right to defend himself, his dog and his family…
That’s bad news for the officer since, by entering the bark park, they accepted the risk of potential attack.
I have no sypathy for the husky’s owner (or his brother). He needed to be vigilant and taken extra precautions when allowing his dog onto that property. An aggressive dog does not sprout overnight…the owners knew what that Husky was capable of doing to another dog! If he was on top of his dog and pulling it away, that Husky would be alive, now.
Stupid is as stupid does…Both parties!
Being in the rural Pacific Northwest, I was surprised at the strong negative reaction so very many people in and around Baltimore had to the simple fact of a police officer (off duty) let alone a citizen carrying a legal weapon (we’ll see if legal turns out to be the case perhaps). Pretty common and unremarkable practice here in citizen population with proper permit/training of course.
Anyway, that said, the standard for discharge in such a location as your dog park would be only for the protection of human life or to prevent grave personnel injury. Hard to justify firearm discharge to protect “property” in most jurisdictions outside of Texas (I know, this status of our dogs under the law seems inadequate to me too.) If “reasonable” people during the grand-jury and then trial phase believe that he had other safe options to avoid loss of human life or grave human personnel injury (his claim of either risk seeming iffy at this point) then he is going to be convicted of several crimes I would think – assuming your legal system works correctly in Baltimore area when cops are involved. Sounds like what we would definitely call a “bad shooting”. We carry flashlights (for striking), mace and/or stun guns here in addition to firearms for just such contingencies to have appropriate graduated force options. The telescoping extension type baton stun guns work great since just the deployment and electrical crackle sound is enough to get most dogs to back-off without even contacting it. Bet those are banned in Baltimore too, huh?
I am a dog lover and my knee jerk reaction would be that the officer acted inappropriately. However, unlike other posters here, I am not going to pass that judgement for the very simple reason that I wasn’t there.
It never ceases to amaze me how quick people are to rush to judgement with a paucity of facts. Here we have very little to go on, yet people are making sweeping character judgements about the officer.
If an investigation reveals misconduct on his part, I hope he is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. But I refuse to convict him in the court of public opinion based solely on the word of the late dog’s owner that the dog wasn’t aggresive.
I’d like to jump in and say this was uncalled for but if one doesn’t know the facts, its better to wait and find out.
NEVER re-elect ANYONE had it right. He was bringing his dog to an off leash bark park with the dog on a leash? Dogs are going to do what is instilled in their blood and the behavior of the pack tells a story…….I wish more people were there to see how it all went down.
In my state citizens can legally carry, and I do. The cop was in civilian clothes and he would have been lucky that he was not shot. Of course the charges agains his shooter would have been much harsher although the reason would have been no different. Someone, unknown pulled a gun and shot someones dog in a busy OFF-LEASH dog park.
After reading several comments, I think most of these people have NO idea about the reality of 2 LARGE dogs fighting! I do, Ii have a German Shepard who seems to attract big dogs who want to fight. I have broken up many fights. But, I have never seen one other owner jump in to break up a BIG dog fight! Just me and I will do anything do get another dog off mine! The last time a huge black Lab attacked her I would have shot it between the eyes if I had a gun. I am tired of listening to people cry about some big bully Husky! I know what it feels like to have these large dogs go ballistic on your persosnal pet and it sucks!
so many idiots… IT WAS A DOG PARK… of course the dog is off his leash, that’s the POINT of A DOG PARK.
We aren’t talking about a loose dog attacking a dog and his owner walking down the street, or on their property. Those are completely different situations. In a dog park, you know someone is there to handle that dog. On the street or your property, it could be a stray, could be rabid, and you have no idea who is around to control the animal.
You have no right to walk into a dog park and shoot a dog for playing rough with your dog. For the same reason you can not shoot a man in the back, deadly force under the law requires an imminent threat. A dog jumping on another dog is hardly a threat, unless the other dog is much smaller or old/crippled. The German Shepherd was more than capable of defending itself.
For all those who keep saying people attacking the officer don’t know the facts, The German Shepherd has no wounds according to the story, nor do the officer or his wife. Are we not to take the report as fact?
I have seen many dog scraps at dog parks. I don’t take my dog to them anymore because I do understand that my dog is too aggressive with smaller and/or submissive dogs to be trusted.
But when my dog tackled a dog or took an aggressive posture I hurried to break it up, however dog parks are generally large spaces so the dogs can run, it might take 20-30 seconds for me to run to where the incident is occurring. And I, unlike many other people in the park actually walked around and tried to be near my dog and watch her. Most people are reading books or talking to other people. But if my dog sprints from one side to the other, I can not be expected to instantly be with her. How much time was Bear-Bear’s handler given to intercede?
Dogs do not have hands to wrestle with, when they tussle they use their mouths. Dogs generally nip and grab other dogs around the neck as a means of play. it can look aggressive, if they are very rowdy and bark and snarl when they do it, it can look like a duel to the death. But dogs rarely kill one another even when fighting for real, unless we are talking a medium/large dog against a mini/small dog, then yes they can quickly kill a small dog as they might see it more as prey than a playmate, we are talking about animals after all. But these 2 dogs are about the same size, death was highly unlikely, and if the Husky had turned on the officer and his wife, the German Shepherd would have defended them.
If my dog had been the one that got shot, I have to wonder if I would have been shot as well, because I quickly would have launched myself at the a-hole who shot her. The officer, without identifying himself would have just been a moron who killed my dog in that situation, and I as an unarmed man can not be shot in self defense, its unjustifiable force. So we are lucky the dog’s handler didn’t charge the guy, or we might have had a dead man in this story as well.
This is clearly an over reaction by this loose cannon. Hardly the first cop to over react, and kill something, fortunately this time it was a human being. I use to live in Wilmington NC, and cops went to arrest a 19yr old kid for stealing 2 XBOXs from another 18 yr old. The police are about to kick down the door, when the kid approaches it and one of the officers mistakes the battering ram hitting the door as a gun shot and fires through the door killing the 19yr old kid who was wanted for theft, not murder or another violent crime, and then shot the kids dog afterward. I have no sympathy for the kids crimes, he deserved to go to jail for them, but he didn’t deserve to die. Needless to say the officer is no longer employed, and law suits have been filed.
This shooting is not justified based on the story as it has been told in the article. And I believe this guy has no business carrying a weapon as part of his job. He will shoot someone someday in a similar over reaction, no doubt.
Having owned a Siberian husky, most people don’t know how unique this breed. Only one in about 10,000 would be able to be trained to be a guard dog, as they WILL NOT ATTACK HUMANS! I know, I was interested in getting my Husky trained, they would take her or her brother. I am a second amendment proponent, however, it seems like thing happened very quickly, and the owner of the German Shepherd, saw things that may not have actually been happening. Even the trained eye of a policeman, when it is a loved one or pet, may not be as unbiased as one would want. Siberians are FANTASTIC animals. Shame to loose one over a perceived attack.
To those who blindly say that he was a trained officer and therefore reacted appropriately I’d say look at the off duty police officer in philly who fatally shot his brother in-law and two others over a water gun fight I’m from emergency services and have the utmost respect for law enforcement but there are nuts in every profession.
I think he had every right to shoot that dog and I would have done the same.
This story saddens me so much. Shoudln’t a police officer be able to handle such a situation without resorting to using a weapon? It is horrifying to me that this man is not under arrest. Pulling out a gun in a public park and shooting someone else’s dog is just beyond comprehension. Where are all these trigger happy nut jobs coming from and why are they working as police officers and federal agents? Are there ANY standards at this point? Any moments of self censorship and thought before an action? To me it was not the dogs who were blood thirsty and out of control. It was the “big man” with big gun who proved he is up to the task of murdering somebody’s pet. Very manly.
Scumbag idiot, I carry and I would have shot this PIG and his wife. I support law enforcement but not in this case, poor dog
There are MANY irresponsible dog owners. The husky owner is no different. None of this would have happened if the husky was on a leash, like they are supposed to be. That owner bares 50 percent responsibility for this event.
the guy wasn’t even a real cop,he’s a security guard,hope he burns for this
it was an OFF-LEASH DOG PARK,Janice,you obviously are a moron who can’t read
I would have shot an attacking animal if I felt it was going to seriously injure my dog and/or me. If the other owner loved his do so much he should have been paying attention. Since apparently he wasn’t now his dog is dead.
If the choice is my animal or injury to a person or shooting someone else’s animal, I’d definitely kill the aggressor.
I would like to offer a different version of what is more likely to have happened. The off duty cop arrives at the dog park. When bear-bear comes to play with his dog, the officer becomes insanely jealous of the size of the dog’s penis and shoots the dog in a fit of rage over the inadequate size of his own penis.
Once the follow up stories came out and we had more information , the truth is more evident. Shooter over reacted. This was not real policeman, he was a civilian rent a cop. They generally can’t get onto a real police force, often because they are unstable. They are dangerous with a gun, we had one in the mill who wanted to be a hero so he started a fire that he intended to “find” and put out. It got out of control and shut the milll down for 3 months. No real police officer would fire his weapon like this. Too many guns in the hands of morons, My prayer go out to all involved, both dog owners and both dogs. Unstable frightened people need to stay home, not run the streets and parks with weapons. This discussion has gotten out of control due to lack of real information and differences in lifestyles. Name calling makes everyone look challenged but then to each his own.
I say shoot ALL the smelly, protein consuming, non-contributing, wormy, parisite ridden anmals on the face of the earth! Then start on the weirdo, dog kissing tree huggers next!
No matter who you are, gun can be used only to protect, life. There is no evidence about any danger against the officer, his wife or his dog.Then what is the point using the gun at all. Just because he’s got one. Common!!! This is wild west story it’s only happened today. I’m really sorry about the officers very unstable mental condition, but he needs to be taken off the street. Everyone pays for mistakes. He should not be under special protection.
Cops do whatever they want because they know they can get away with it
He should have never shot the Bear. Bear’s handler yes…but ot Bear…Poor Doggie…
Whenever you go to a dog park, the rules are that if any dog shows signs of aggression, no matter how small, they should be removed immediately from the park. The fault is the owner of the husky. If he showed aggression, the police officer was in his right to shoot and kill it. Why wait until it maims or kills a child or another dog. You people are STUPID in defending the owner of an aggressive dog. I wish there where more officers in my dog park to prevent big dogs like that Bear Bear from doing smaller dogs who have just as much right to be in there.
This “officer” was wrong! He is obviously incompetent to separate two companion animals who are rough-housing. My Great Dane is deaf and plays in a clumsy rough manner but has never shown animosity to any animal. If he shot my dog there would be recompense!
I own a dog, and if another dog ever attacked mine to where I felt threatened, you would be damn sure I would defend my dog in any way possible. My dog is as important to me as my children.
I WOULD HAVE SHOT THE DOG AND THE OWNER. ALL YOU AMINAL LOVERS CAN KS MY A$$
The minute the drama queen pulled a gun and aimed it at my dog, I’d have shot him dead. And yes, I carry a permitted gun at all times.
And as he was UNidentified and attempting to destroy my “property”, I’d have been totally justified.
I have worked with animals for over 20 years. I have never known a Husky to attack anything. If you look at breeds some are more prone. I class dogs like horses. Those that are more alpha need a more experienced handler. Then there are the intermediate, requiring someone with a more working knowledge and the beginner which anyone without dog knowledge can own. Not everyone can handle every breed. That is what is wrong with the situation with pitbulls. My point is this was probably playing rough and the police officer didnt realize it or was in a bad mood. I have 4 large dogs. Two play fight grabbing each other around the neck but have never broken the skin. But they are wagging their tail. They do this for a minute or two then lay on each other. I know they do this when I am home watching them otherwise they just lay around. It’s usually just evening play time. Bringing your firearm to a dog park is asking for trouble; talk about overkill. Not to mention what if children had been around. Secondly the only one injured was the dog shot.
I am very distraught over this story and hope that something is done about this killing of a family member ! I myself had a siberian husky that lived to be 13 years old and he was a very hyper dog but never mean and loved to play rough! That is no reason for him to be shot. Has any officials examined the sheperd for bite marks? I’d like to see them!!! My best wishes for the owner of Bear-Bear.
7 jane is an idiot. Cops are the worst bullies and criminals around. They think because they have a badge, they can do whatever they want. It’s not a question of police training and experience, it’s a question of arrogance. This was guy who thought he was so tough, carrying the gun around that he had to make a point of it. I hope he has his balls cut off for what he did.
How about a web site “Justice for Keith Shepherd.” Why is everyone so quick to think Bear-Bear was innocent? This dog ATTACKED someone else’s dog and then bit a human. Bear-Bear is dangerous and his owner irresponsible. Keith Shepherd should sue the owner because Bear-Bear bit him.
Very sad and unfortunate….but I can’t help wondering: if it was a minority human killed would it have generated this much debate? Just thinking aloud…
Check out what recently happened in Hayward CA – I knew this dog and he was the sweestest dog – three legs – and he was shot 7 times – not 5.
http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_15720532
I would have shot Bear-Bear if he was biting my dog. Some people don’t know how to keep their dog in line.
a gunshot into the air may have stopped the attack. shooting the dog…wrong.
Silly boys and girls. If you weren’t there you can’t say if the cop was right, wrong or just mistaken.
Glad he at least had the option to save his dog. Had he not been armed it might have been his dog that was down.
Good shooting, Keith. At least you put him down quickly – can you imagine all these idiots if you would have missed or simply fired a warning shot?
Sorry, but the officer thought his family was in danger. Having been attacked by dogs I understand. It should be well within his right to use a weapon that he should have being an officer of the law (as MANY crimes are stopped by off duty police officers). As an officer of the law he is trained and given the responsibility to do so. I am also sure that he was able to point the gun at the dog without endangering innocent people.
If this had happened in MT instead of MD it would be a non issue (as it was in my neighborhood in NC when a dog attacked a policeman in my neighborhood).
Bear-bear got what he deserved. These sorry excuses by animal activists put people so low on the food chain. And the writer, Jenna, ought to have her head examined- sorry, but people were at risk- at the mercy of an animal- glad that dog is gone- and I hope bear-bear’s owner gets stuck paying the legal tab of the Keith when all is said & done- nice work Keith- let us know where to donate to your legal fund.
We should all be aware by now that MD. Police, Federal Agents, and Law Enforcement officers believe that they are above the law. The incident with the Motorcyclist should indicate that alone. No Knock warrents on the MD Mayor where his 2 dogs were shot. Leads one to believe that MD. Officers seem to be “Gun Toteing Jack Booted Thugs.” How long before your populace rises up and slaughters every one of you Tin Shield carrying Meglomaniacs? Not soon enough IMHO!!! All I can say is , you are dam lucky it wasnt my dog. I would have Shot you, then your girl, then your dog; in self defence. Freakin Self Righteous, Self Dilluted, belief that they are Above the Law. Rise Up Marylanders, Rise up and show your State Police and your City Police that you have Firearms too!!!
Like most gun owners this guy is a coward and a dumbass, ever hear of firing a shot into the air….DUHHHH!!!
A good read for dominance theory/ “alpha” dog believers.
http://www.avsabonline.org/avsabonline/images/stories/Position_Statements/dominance%20statement.pdf
As long as these evil, cowardly tax-feeding punks going around killing dogs, babies and old ladies; someone justifiably will treat them as predators.
The alleged dog fight didn’t even require the GSD to be examined for wounds, why, because there were none to be found.
Keith Shepard declared Bear-Bear to be jumping on top of his GSD, and yet there were no puncture wounds or bite marks. Had Bear-Bear truly been attacking and was able to jump on top of the other dog, there would have been at least one bite mark.
Anyone witness to a real dog fight would admit how fast dogs can hit and draw blood. Only an idiot, or in this case, an off-duty cop named Keith Shepard would misunderstand dominant mouth-flashing and mounting for a deadly fight requiring deadly force.
BTW: Keith Shepard contradicts himself.
In the 911 call he declares to protect his dog (he shot Bear-Bear from behind!), but in the written report declares being personally attacked as well as his wife and the dog!
Huskies are loving creatures, albeit quite a handful. Their playful nature is often mistaken as agression. This is a tragedy and I hope the man is dealt with justly.
One piece of advice from a former Husky owner: Do NOT allow your Husky off a lead unless within the confines of your own space. PLEASE people: LEARN about a breed extensively before endagering your beloved pet with stupidity like letting a Husky off its lead.
First and foremost I feel horrible for the owners of Bear-Bear. This incident should never have happened! This Shepard guy had no business from what I have read in shooting Bear-Bear. That being said, I am almost appalled by what many here are writing about Police Officers. What I don’t understand is why many here look at the extremely poor decision that this idiot made, and turn it into 100 posts about how bad….and power hungry cops allegedly are. If this person is a cop, he probably won’t be for long, and unfortunately you cannot weed all of the bad ones out during the initial hiring process. As far as carrying a handgun off-duty, many cops including myself do carry off-duty. Maybe you have missed all of the news articles, and reports but there are more stories than I can count where an off-duty officer was able to step in and stop a shooting in progress in public which saved many innocent lives. And “anrodgers” stated police everywhere are self important bullys. That is rediculous! I am a army veteran, and have been a police officer for 8yrs. I look forward to everyday I go to work, and nothing makes me happier than serving/protecting the public. All of the cops I know go to work hoping to make a difference, and would lay our lives down for ANYONE at any moment. I only wish I could meet the people who have nothing but negative things to say about police officers because they have either not spent time speaking with one, or they are sadly misinformed. And to the “Husky” owner who said….”After almost 30 years on the job working closely with POs I found that many consider themselves above the law and are God’s gift to humanity. The reality is that 99.99% of their job is writing up reports and driving around. It’s Firefighters and EMS that put themselves in danger every day for you ….. but rarely cops”….that doesn’t even make sense. If 99.99% of our job is to just write reports, we obviously have to respond to calls in order to have reports to write. I do agree that Firefighter and EMS put there lives on the line, but so do police officers. I commend everyone who works in public service, as should you. I’m not going to even comment on some of the other things stated about police officers in the above responses, but I thought more people were better informed. In each profession you have a few people who make the majority look bad. But be that as it may….it is not fair nor does it make sense to assume all others are the same way. Again I would like to offer my condolences to the family of Bear-Bear. This should never have happened!
Never mind the fact that people don’t like the police for a moment. If my dog was ‘attacked’ by another and its owner didn’t at least help me get them apart, I’d shoot the attacking dog. I should certainly be knowledgeable about dogs in general and my breed especially, that’s my responsibility as a dog owner. I’m NOT responsible for understanding every other breed out there because one could confront my animal. Sorry I’m not.
I couldn’t tell the difference from a ‘playful’ biting, snapping, snarling, dominance/submission doggie game and a real attack and I shouldn’t be expected to. The huge majority of dog owners are not educated experts.
People are saying there were no bite marks on the GSD, ok. How much longer until there would have been. Should its owner have waited until his animal, the victim, was seriously injured before moving to protect it? What if Bear-Bear displayed this level of dominance and the victim was a child? Was he still just playing?
I’m partially playing the devil’s advocate here but it IS a shame there were no ‘neutral’ witnesses or better yet video tape.
I think offering condolences is a bit much here. The dog was not a son or daughter and I mean people make it sound like these people lost a kid. I think we go to far with the pet thing. I like animals and I understand being close to one, but it is not like loosing a child. And thank God it was not a child or any other person.
As for the shooting itself, I think many cops (not all and not the majority) have some type of trigger happy complex. Sadly but truly enough, I think many people go into law enforcement because they want to shoot something. I worked in a courthouse with federal cops for several years and I would listen to their stories about how they were looking for a fight. And I am convinced there is a good percentage like this. So, here I think what we have was someone looking to shoot something and kill it. I don’t think you need to shoot a dog which is fighting or playing rough with another dog. You can pull the dogs hair, its ears, wrestle it, make some loud noise, or something else. Really bad judgment. This man should not be allowed to carry a fire arm and he should not be a police officer. I wouldn’t feel sad for him if he lost his job because I don’t want trigger happy fools like him patrolling anything on my behalf.
This moron should be fired and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. I have a husky and often take him to a fenced in doggie park, inevitably, dogs get into scrapes with one another and as any sensible owner knows, it’s a terriorial display that usually ends within moments, unless a witless human interjects himself during the fray in an unexpected way. Yes I’ve been bitten over the years but pulling a gun in a public place and shooting the dog is an outrage and a crime. Take this idiot’s gun away before he kills again. SHAME ON HIM!
Hey Planet Earth – I have had dogs (most rescues) for more than 30 years.. Lots of time and attention to training is given to them, sometimes this takes a couple years due to abuse. Voice commands to stop my dogs in their tracks is a must as most of my dogs are large breeds. So I guess I am a “Wack job” too. I never take my dogs to a park due to people like you.
Getting bit hurts, man up and put away the gun….
This just in, Bear Bear, AKA Bare Bear was wanted on a warrant for the rape and molestation of three underage female dogs. Bare Bear was reportedly an enforcer for the Bad Dogs crime syndicate and ran a protection racket at a number of off leash dog parks. Bare Bear is survived by three brothers, Larry, Moe and Curly, two sisters, Madonna and Cybil. He is listed as the Baby Daddy for 67 puppies by 24 baby mommies. Bare Bear was a blue dog Democrat and a strong Obama supported. According to those that knew he, it was a wonder he had lived as long as he had.
This was a Husky and a Shepherd. Not a Malamute, a Husky. Shepherds are a lot bigger than Huskies, and a lot more prone to attack. How in heaven’s name could that idiot felt endangered?
The cop is a loser. His dog was the aggressive one and that is why he didn’t take his dog off the leasch. I see that all the time. If your dog can’t behave, don’t bring him around other dogs, idiot. This guy should be prosecuted and the owners of Bear-Bear should sue them in civil court too. Who the hell does that guy think he is?
I feel this ‘police officer’ is a disgrace to the police force and this is simply a case of excessive force to ’shock and awe’ the helpless victim. If Bare Bear’s handler was amongst a group of five or six tough men, and all of them sporting loaded semi-automatic assault rifles with duct-taped pre-ban magazines do you think this jackass would have discharged his handgun! If they find him not-guilty, then would we need to carry an assault rifle and a bulletproof vest while walking our dogs? This criminal’s firearm should be confiscated and this person should be set to a animal shelter for sensitivity training.
The officer was way out of line. Those of you supporting him also seem to think that guns are the solution in general to our problems. Such a sad commentary on the society that we have built here in the States.
I’ve lived in other democracies. This shooting would not happen in them.
Ironically, it is because of the pro gun nuts that I will never give up my guns as long as I live in the States.
RIP Bear.
i love it when people argue religion.
when a dog runs for you or another dog he is being aggressive, playful or attacking maybe unknown.
a dog, esp large, should be under control at all times, the owner lost control.
judgement calls, when you are not there are very difficult.
what dog owner is going to say to the press that this was my dogs fault he is always aggressive, ie parents protect their young right or wrong whether caught in the act or not
if the had been an adult attacked, would shooting be justified?
if it had been two adults, would shooting be justified?
without the facts or being in that situation it is difficult to judge logically, emotionally it is sad and unfortunate
The off duty officer over reacted. There is no need to carry your weapon off duty. Simple fact is that everytime you discharge your weapon you have to have an explanation for why your fired your weapon on the Federal level. I see it everyday when Officers want to feel there authority they abuse the power they have and loose respect in the community. Generally this happens when they are new to law enforcement.
As for shooting the dog, most dogs communicate by biting. Dogs will bite one another all the time it’s their way of showing emotion. Having owned dogs that would bite one another on occasion (sign of affection, anger, etc.). As soon as the fight was over they would lay down and sleep together every night. The same dogs that would fight all the time, when my first passed away, the other mourned the same dog that he would fight with. It is a shame that officer (probably new to having a dog) didn’t realize that before drawing his weapon and killing someone else’s pet. So unless a dog is viciously attacking another dog and trying to draw blood, it usually the owner’s that is the one that over reacts.
I go to dog parks all the time and every once in a while you get a dog that is untrained, shy or aggressive, boxed in a crate all day then taken to a dog park to ‘run it off.’ Some of them are very violent. I hope this is found to be the case and not that this guy was just trigger happy.
If this nut is not relieved of his job and the right to keep and bear arms, my attorney’s will follow it up for sure — until hell freezes over, if necessary.
Funny how people go berserk when a dog is shot by a lunatic cop, but every week when they tase or kill a human, it gets swept under the rug.
This posting is not meant to bash on anyone but to hopefully give a different perspective on the situation.
I understand that there are a lot of dog lovers out there, but don’t stererotype all officers negatively due one officer’s actions. There are a lot of great police officers out there that put their life on the line everyday. It sucks when you are out there trying to do your job and someone comes along and lable you as a dirty cop when you have no personal involvement in certain cases. Yes, officers enforce laws, regulations, and help protect society, but there is also a part that society must play as well.
The first thing that is taught in any law enforcement academy is officer safety (on or off duty). According to the article Shepard made an attempt to remove Bear- Bear and asked the owner as well. What else is needed to actually get bitten? Granted a time wasn’t given on how long Shepard waited before he fired. How long should one wait? There were a lot of replies stating that they would have gotten bitten to seperate the dogs. I find it amazing how people place their life at risk over animals. Most people won’t seperate other people for the risk of injury. I will take a punch any day over being bitten.
There was also a response where Shephard did not understand Bear-Bear’s behavior. Shepard is not required to know the behavior of another person’s dog (dog park or not, police officer or not). If his dog is well mannered and under control he has done his part. Knowing all the dogs in the park is not a requirement. That’s why owners are responsible for their dog not dogs are responsible for their owner.
It seems everyone is focused on cops being above the law. Cops do have a right to protect themselves and are authorized to use deadly force when feasible, and the court may see this situation appropriate. The situation could have been handle in many ways. He could have kicked the dog, used a stick, etc. A decision was made. Just because it was a decision that you disagree with doesn’t make it wrong. Now going off the facts from the article, did Shepard actually break the law? From a moral stand point of course it’s wrong to take a life.
Anyone with the least bit of experience with weapons know that you don’t fire warning shots, fire at the ground, or in the air. This is how people are injured. Guns can be fired in public areas as long as the shooter (officers/personnel with permits) is aware of his or her surroundings and the safety of others. Also when it is in the protection of the officer and/or public. If that was the case then officers would not carry guns at all.
My heart goes out to Bear-Bear and the owners also to Shepard and his family.
I would really hate to think what would happen if someone’s kid start shoving his kid around at the park. This is a cut and dry case of “that dog is making me look weak by dominating my big bad german shepard, aww hell no, where’s my gun.” Then the courts encourage other cops to do the same thing by giving this guy a pat in the wrist. We will see more of this because the judicial system of American supports these guys doing whatever they want to whoever they want. They ARE the judge and jury. You have no rights, only temporary privileges until a cop with a gun wants to take them all away.
To the commenter #112- about everybody wasting their time on a damn dog an should be more concerned about helping 2 find a cure for cancer. I hope they do find a cure for cancer. Obviously, u must have cancer- if thats the case that u do GOOD, u deserve it, then after u pass away I hope they find a cure. The life of a dog is more important 2 me. That cop had no right whatsoever 2 pull out his gun an shoot BearBear. He’s jus trigger happy, an i hope he has 2 pay dearly for animal cruelty. Cops are all the same- think that their all high an mighty an they can break the law an get away with it. It’s about time the law did something this time an make an example out of this cop an show the world cops get punished when they break the law-especially when it comes 2 animal cruelty. I’m sick of hearing about charges being dropped on cops when they break the law jus because their cops. MAKE HIM PAY. HE PULLED OUT HIS GUN IN THE PUBLIC AN TOOK A LIFE OF AN INNOCENT DOG UNNESCARLY. HE COULD HAV HANDLED IT DIFFERENTLY THAN PULLING OUT HIS GUN.
I am so glad that some people commenting on this blog have followed the follow up story. This guy was not, is not, and should never be a cop. he is a security guard and had no business carrying a gun off duty. he has no business shooting a gun in public for sure. I hope he is expecting a civil lawsuit cause im sure he will get one. some folks have said he should have shot a warning into the air. well, the bullet has to come back down, and it may have killed someone so at least he didnt do that. but what he did do was so f-ing stupid he does need to be punished harshly. on cnn.com today there are at least 8 articles about cops breaking the law, f-ing up big time. who is recruiting the a-holes. ???? please remember this security guard is a reject and not even a cop.
I can’t understand why a police officer would shoot a dog at a dog park. Dogs will play and sometimes fight. But to shoot the animal just does not make sense especially after there were no injuries to the German Sherperd or it’s gun wielding owner. I think it’s just another case of police brutality and control.
It’s really easy for the author of this story to sit there and judge from her couch, but I really do wonder what her perspective would really been if she had actually been in that situation.
If a large animal is attacking you and your pet, you have a right to use lethal force against it and defend your self and family. the story would be different if the dog had bitten the neck of the wife and the wife had died.
There has been a rash of dogs attacking innocent people. I have written my congressmen asking that tougher laws are enacted but so far nothing has happened. I always bring a hunting knife with me when I bike or jog. I guarantee that any dog that threatens me will come out the loser.
Congratulations on someone with guts acting on an out of control dog and I hope I see more of this.
For the guy who claims that huskeys aren’t agressive but play rough:I once observed a husky kill an Irish Setter.I didn’t have a chance to stop the attack.It was over in about 10 secs and the Setter was dead.The husky owner didn’t seem to care but the next day the shotgun blast that took out the husky did upset him,then.What goes around,comes around.
He sounds like a trigger happy, jerk. I’m not normally all about ‘animals over humans’, but I’m hoping that he’ll be punished for choosing to over react and kill the dog. Ok, the dog tried to bite him. It didn’t mean he had to shoot it. It sounds like he has some control issues to me (as in, always has to be in the power position).
What was the owner of the bitten dog wupposed to do?
Speak to the Husky in a loving caring way? Gimme a break!
People if your arguments made sense you wouldn’t need to attack each other because you had something to actually say.
People need to be responsible for both their animals and their actions when using a firearm. I hope justice is served and I am personally not a position to determine what that is with the little bit of information I have.
Until you are attacked by an uncontrolled dog, you need to shut up. It makes me sick to see all of you critics passing judgement on someone you probably have never met. Duh, did any of you think the Officer might not have permission to talk to the media? I think not. And..if I were him I would not want to talk to a bunch of self serving armchair idiots.
Amazing to see almost everyone rush for armchair justice tried in the court of non-fact based public opinion.
Typical liberal Monday morning quarterbacking.
Wait until actual FACTS about the case turn up. Not just one left-slanted reporter’s article.
The media needs to do a better job of neutrally reporting the actual facts and not slapping a slant on it.
As far as the charges filed, it’s a damn shame that we feel the need to find something criminal to indict the officer on just because something sad happened.
Stupid people need to understand the difference between tragic and criminal. Is it tragic the dog died, yes it is. Is it criminal, well that depends on facts that we don’t have. That’s what a grand-jury is for.
Personally, I am still looking for the place to move where they don’t allow any of the filthy beasts in the town. I will never understand this relationship that everyone but me seems to have with these four legged menaces to society. I am suspect that most dog lovers do not have the social skills to get along with people, thus have to relate to stupid animals. Having lived in towns where the lemming thing to do is own a dog, that is usually never cared for enough to actually walk or play with them, all I can say is sad, sad, sad. Control your stupid beasts dog lovers, please…
Wow! 595 Comments, you would think this was an act of war! I can’t believe all of the remarks that want to point fingers at this off-duty police officer! A dog attacking you or someone that you love is more of an aggressive act than being attacked by a human! It’s understandable why this officer would have reacted this much. Why wasn’t the owner of Bear-Bear with the pet? This cannot be completely laid to the blame of the victim (person being attacked). You don’t have to have bite marks to prove you were being attacked. Once an animal has demonstrated that it is aggressive you have to defend yourself, which sometimes means escaping. The officer did not use escape as the solution, but that doesnt’ make him the criminal. I wish my view was more the majority than the obvious minority, but I feel more for the officer than I do for the owner of Bear-Bear. From the article, the dog’s owner’s brother was the one who responded, so where was the dog’s owner in all of this? ESPECIALLY, if you have a dog that is prone to aggression, I would think that you would have been on the guard at all times, especially so if another dog was entering the park??? Give this guy more room to breathe!!!
Hey hey hey, take it ease! None, along with a very few minority on this post are they only ones talking any sense on here. No one on this post was there when this incident happened. There are always two sides to a story. If this is going to be tried in civil or criminal court the decision will be up to a judge as to whether the off-duty officer is to be held criminally or civilly responsible. People I know you love dogs and this story is upsetting, but you need to control your emotions and listen to yourselves. The vast majority of you people sound absolutely ridiculous. And take it ease all you cop haters…who are the first people you are going to call when someone steals from you or your child goes missing? Seriously, listen to yourselves.
Oh whatever…Why we have dog parks is a bigger question in the first place. It’s a accident waiting to happen. Money for that would be much better spent on homeless shelters.We care more about animals in this country than we do people.
Soulcage, what exactly is your issue with dog parks??
If he had done that to my dog, then I would have pulled out my .45 and shot him. Then it would have been me who was claiming that I feared for the safety of myself after some kook had decided to shoot my dog. I also suspect that a jury would more likely believe my excuse than one would his excuse. Of course, the legal system protects their own, so he will never have to see a jury.
I just read a story from Carson City, NV, in which a trigger happy sheriff’s deputy shot a family dog. The time has come to disarm these people and leave them with their pepper spray and tasers — both non-lethal solutions to any “dog problem” imaginable.
The article states that neither the German Shepard nor the officer had any bite marks which would probably go a long way to disproving his story that he was being attacked. Killing the husky was a way over the top reaction and trigger happy crazies like that should not be carrying concealed weapons.
DAN LAW,
In a perfect world I would agree with you. What the heck is pepper spray and tasers going to do against firearms that many criminals and gangs also carry. Why aren’t you calling for more strict gun control so that NOBODY has firearms. You argument is flawed. A little common sense may help you in life in the long run.
This is a clear case of panic by the officer. He got bit (often in a dog fight) and his dog got bit twice. No one mentioned the time lapse? That is (bites) hardly a ‘dog fight’. The officer (with a handgun ‘did not’ fear for he and his wife”s safety. He feared his dog was ‘losing’ only. Why would he fear anything as he had a handgun? Does the officer own 2 maile dogs? Both will fight if the monent is right…would he shoot his own dogs for rough behavior.
Ind the end, of course, he people who owned Bear Bear have lost a valuable pet, as anone knows who has owned a dog, the very close relatiionship and companionshp they developed, now taken away from them. Cop’s action particularly in a public place, shows wreckless behavior by himself and the gun that was given to him by his police force. I would wonder about his competence on the streets? Maybe, he will start shooting people instead of dogs. Panic! Ron
So the owner says he was bit, and his dog was bit twice. Then wouldn’t there be evidence to support this. Also, think of all the people who bring their dogs and children to this park, and to know there is a crazy officer carrying a concealed weapon he could bring out at any time, possibly killing a child, and the local police department is ok with this? Also, this officer is clearly not a man. He is a coward and so is his wife. Not taking accountability for their actions to begin. What an ASS. I wouldnt be surprised if his dog winds up dead, shot in the head.
My experience with Police in a situation when dogs are present is they shoot them. Many years ago there was an operation in San Diego where the police were raiding a drug house. There was a Pit-bull on a chain at an adjacent residence that started barking, the officers fired over 25 rounds, hitting the dog 3 times, one round went through a wall and narrowly missed an infant in a crib. And no I wasn’t involved. The news carried for a day and it was never heard about again.
I currently have 3 mixed breed dogs, all “pound puppies”, and take them to the dog park, even though they are off leash we watch them just like kids.
From what I have read about this situation, the officer over reacted by a large margin. And from the info about his “fellow” officers reacting, sounds like the entire lot needs to go back to school for re-training. Especially when it comes to injured animals.
Cop was wrong. Period. Excessive use of force. No doubt the sheperd was the aggressor. They always are.
But, it doesn’t matter. I don’t care how you bake it, shake it, or mistake it…the cop was wrong to use the gun and should go down for it.
cops for the most part are worthless trigger happy racist trash who rape steal and kill with no justice served. there are some great cops thank god but most of them are worthless dog killers
I just read the comment about having been bitten. I have been, several times. The last was a year ago by a stray that the local animal control had been trying to cage. While I was walking my dogs, my wife had one and I had the other 2, all on leashes, the dog came from across the street and bite me on the leg. Animal control still hasn’t caught the dog. Now we carry a spray bottle with ammonia. He has only come near us once since we sprayed him.
Too many unhelpful bias opinions here.
Perhaps, guns should not be allowed at a dog park because I know dog’s weak-spot and I could seriously take on a big dog myself but two dogs is scary. Sometimes dog’s have an instinct to attack another just when it seems friendly, perhaps it’s the weather.
In a leash-free zone it makes it harder to separate them as you kick the heck out of the offending dog’s chest but it can still be done.
The leash free zone should have a rule that the owner must tackle his own offending dog risking getting himself bit or to grab his own dog’s rear feet and pull back, and to squeeze the paws if it won’t let go knowing that it will turn around in pain to bite. So what was the owner doing to stop it’s Husky dog from attack?
My retriever has been attacked three times – twice by pit bulls and one by a rotti.
On all three occasions I successfully got the attacking dogs off of my retriever and suffered one bite between the three, with my dog picking up a few as well…all treatable.
This p.o.s. officer used the gun because it was there and he didn’t have the cajones to pull the attacking dogs off, himself.
Common sense says that an attack at a dog park is able to be handled by some strong muscle and force – not with a pistol shot.
I don’t consider the officer a bad guy…just a coward.
If the owner of Bear Bear had been responsible his dog wouldn’t have been iced. Dogs or other animals that threaten humans should be disposed of.
“Dorothy Pearce, the homeowner’s association manager, was appalled that someone would fire a gun in the community dog park — at dinnertime.”
LOL! “At dinnertime! Why the nerve . . . .”
That sounds like a stereotypical busy-body homeowner’s association manager.
As if 11:30 PM or AM would be any worse or better than 6:00 PM to open fire.
I have no desire to harm anyone. If my dog somehow is attacking your dog, or being attacked by your dog, I will gladly risk being bitten in the course of separating them. I am not a large man, but I can definitely separate my 80 pound GSD/Terrier mix from any dog. I will never shoot your dog, even if I do happen to have my pistol with me (which I would never even think of taking to a dog park).
I promise you this though, if you draw your weapon on my dog, I will draw my weapon on you.
If this had been an officer in Denver CO, the off-duty cop would have shot Bear-Bear’s owner and gotten away with it.
Looks like the prosecutor agrees with the majority of the posters on this forum – the officer has been charged with multiple criminal misdemeanor counts.
Hopefully this punk will do some time. Let this be a lesson to all the reckless, ignorant, egomanical, cops out there…
Here’s an idea-if your mutt can’t behave and doesn’t respond to verbal commands SOMEONE MAY SHOOT IT.
So Pauline from the way you are talking, you were right there when this all happened right?
The dog obviously tried to bite the officer and was already biting his dog. He’s a Federal Officer, so he knows how to use correct judgment, or he wouldn’t have graduated the academy.
He felt the animal was a threat, so he killed it. End of story. Hopefully, nothing will be done about this since the officer did nothing wrong.
I am a rollerskater in California and skate on a path right next to a dog park. I cannot tell you how many times these dog owners allow their dog to come out of their designated area and after me — all the while the owner is chatting on his/her cell phone or talking to other dog owners and not paying attention to their dog. They allow their dog to come on to my skating path off of their leash although it is clearly posted dogs on leash on the path where I skate. When I try to gently point out dogs are required to be leashed in the path where I skate, I get flippant comments regarding dealing with my fears. I have had to resort to carrying my Taser to defend myself which is a pain for me as that is not why I go rollerskating. The dog owners are rude, arrogant and think their little “poochie” is so special they don’t have to follow the rules. It’s too bad the off-duty officer shot the dog because it’s really the owner/caretaker that needs to be shot. The dog is only doing what it does and it’s up to the dog owner/caretaker to make sure their dog does not bother others. “Pets” are a personal thing and not everyone wants to be bothered with “your pet”. If you love you pet so much, try showing some common courtesy and respect for others out enjoying nature who don’t come out to play with your dog.
He fired the gun INTO THE DOG, not randomly into the air or into nearby houses. Jesus…officers go through extensive weapon training and know how to discharge a firearm responsibly. It’s not like he was aiming at elderly people or playing Russian Roulette with neighborhood children.
So this whole “he shouldn’t have fired in a public park at dinnertime” is all BS
So what if everyone carried a gun an just shot first and asked questions latter in any event in life? That’s absolutely insane that somone would choose to solve a dog fight issue in that manner especially at a dog park.
It scares me that there are cops out there with that sort of mentality and logic, or lack thereof in conflict resolution. Dogs are going to fight from time to time when in contact with each other. If joe citizen did the same thing he’d have been jailed.
As a police officer and a dog lover, and one who has had to shoot two dogs in my career, don’t be quick to judge this federal officer.
Some people react strongly to a dogs aggression, and if he was in a state of fear for himself and his wife then he was justified. Right or wrong its his state of mind that matters (as long as it is reasonable).
I would have been MUCH more comfortable if the headline would have read…”Off-Duty Cop Killed By Husky”!
You people can honestly comment on this one-sided story? This article presented the barest of facts and so many people are quick to attack the officer.
He didn’t have to shoot dog he overreacted. He could have shot in the air, and dog would have jetted. Unless its a hunting dogs, or police trained dogs most dogs ears are sensitive to gun fire at close range, then again everyone is.
were you there?? If not leave to the ones that saw and know what they are talking about .that is the big problem
to many know it alls.
The policeman should have shot the dogs owner instead. The owner was obviously unfit to own a dog and shooting him/her would have been just punishment.
I must agree in spite of how I may feel about off-leash parks. As some of you have pointed out: when one enters the park, they have to realize that the behaviour of the dog is dictated by the hierarchy of the other dogs. To that end though, each owner is ultimately responsible for the behaviour of their animal and the fight should have been broken up. Period. Unfortunately, what we are not given here is the time it took for Bear’s owner to respond and the shooting. Without that piece of information, a conclusion of haste cannot be made. It is also wrong to point to the Shepherd and say it’s the agressor…always is. How often have you been around Shepherds? Is your statement a qualified statement? Three of my four dogs were Sheperds and I could not have asked for better dogs. I have friends that have had Shepherds, and all feel the same. We generally can grasp the sort of personality a dog will have based on the parents. Sometimes, we don’t get the desired outcome. Plus, if there is any, and I do mean any, chance that either dogs’ ancestors were crossbred with an equally aggressive dog. The trait is passed down and it may be inherited by either. People have a knack for saying, “well, if the canine goes rogue, the entire breed has the same behaviour.” Or, we say that all Seattle cops are corrupt, based on interactions with one or two of them, (between you and I – they are!) Do you see my point? The officer should not have taken this as far as he did. But in that moment do we really know what was going on inside the officer’s heaad, other than primal instincts kicking in.
I own a Husky — he wouldn’t hurt a flea — I hate that cliche — but it’s true. He was certified in training to be a therapy dog in Hospitals… That aside — I was attacked by a dog, bitten in the leg (it drew meat and I needed stitches). Even if I had a gun on my side, I would not have shot the dog. I am saddened for the family that lost Bear. I hurt in my heart for them at the fear of it having happened to my Chia.
Very hard to believe the story as told. If this dog was attacking his dog, and he fired a round into it, was he not concerned about his proximity to his own dog?
I wouldn’t dare discharge a weapon near my own dog out of fear he’d have gotten injured to.
So, if the dogs had separated, where was the immediate danger and need to kill the husky.
Any true professional licensed to carry a firearm would have know better.
He went to far. Yes, the owner of Bear Bear should have controlled his dog. Even in a leash free park you should be able to control your dog. If I was at the dog park I would not be comfortable with someone there having a gun.
It is really hard to know what to do in situations like these. I have 4 dogs and I love them like they are my children. However, unless you have more than one dog you may not know that yes they will fight and may get bitten but most of the time you can get them apart and all is well. Size of course matters as I have two 50 lb plus dogs, one med and a 8 pounder.
As a pet owner, I know that I can be bitten if any of my dogs fight each other. Sorry comes witht he territory! Maybe a broom or stick, but not a gun.
Boo-freakin-hoo!!! Dog’s dead! If some jackass left his big aggressive dog unleashed and he attacked my dog, family or myself I would have killed the hell out of that dog without thinking about it twice… I would have probably beat the owner with the dead dog afterwards… I like your column, but get over yourself! It is the owner’s fault. If the other guy did not have his gun, something worse would have happened…. WHO ARE YOU?!?! Are you the one to later see a picture of a person mauled by a mad dog… A person with dozens of stitches and disfigured for life who says… ‘So long as the doggie is Ok, who care about the people attacked? I wish it happens to you… See what you think about htis then.
Juan Del Pueblo:
Are you serious? I’m not defending either side, but you claiming “if some jackass left his big aggressive dog off leash”…
They were in an off leash dog park, it’s not like the dog was running off lead on the street. If there is any way you could be more un-informed on the situation that would be great.
OMG! How do things like this happen? Dogs fight, that is what they do, and most of the time on first meeting it is to establish dominance – not do harm(sometimes). For crying out loud, we are talking about two huge dogs (Dogs like that know how to handle themselves) – a German Shepard and a Husky, did he have to use a gun? Simple Answer NO.
My Jack Russell was attacked by a stray pit bull in Brooklyn – you know what I did? I started cold cocking the pit bull in the head until he backed off – did I kill the pit bull? NO, because even though he was hurting my dog , it still didn’t deserve to die, and I would put my life on the line to protect my family. This cop did not put his life on the line, he simply ended another.
I hope he loses his job. Cops don’t take their jobs to the public seriously, they only take the authority they are given seriously.
And by the way, to the commenter “Planet Earth” – you are the reason people should not carry guns. I hope someone shoots you in the same attitude you said you would shoot them
Dear off-duty scumbag,
Thank you for killing an animal (that is one of the most sweetest natured dogs alive!) that was probably PLAYING with your 100 lb. German Shepherd. I hope justice serves you right scumbag.
Why were you carrying a firearm in public if you were off-duty anyways? Is it because you feel that you are the law on and off-duty? Well guess what, you’re not! You’re just a scumbag that enforces the law (ENFORCES), you are not the law!
If I feared for my life that doesn’t give me the right to shoot someone! If I were to do that I would be in jail like you should be! Oh, another thing: you should have your dog killed to show the suffering that the family is going though. You just killed a family member, good job!
Dogs have amazing instincts! If your dog (that is twice the size of a female husky) sensed something wrong it would’ve attacked and not let the husky do whatever it wanted!!
I own a husky, and they are extremely good tempered dogs! I don’t feel that Bear-Bear did anything wrong, in fact I KNOW that husky did nothing wrong! I own a female husky and my sister owns a male husky (that is easily the size of a German Shepherd). The male grabs the female by the neck and throws it around…why might you ask? Ask your kid what they do with a toy whenever you give it to them..I think its called PLAYING jacka$$!
You should be revoked of your position of being a federal officer. You don’t deserve to enforce our nations laws. You’re the reason people dislike police officers.
Sincerely,
Kevin
Hard to say what happened given we weren’t there, but this is one of the exact reasons I carry oc spray (as well as my firearm). If all you’ve got is a hammer, everything looks like a nail. Plus, even if the other dog is attacking my dog, I don’t want to shoot my dog! Actual dog fights are big balls of chaos…which makes me wonder how this cop got a clean shot off.
Great idea Kevin, let’s kill the owner’s dog for what the owner did. :rolls eyes: Not ok to defend yourself, but it’s ok to punish someone not responsible for the crime?
To add to my previous posting; my girlfriend and I went to an off leash dog park…my dog was in heat (that I didn’t realize) and the dogs did what their nature told them to do. I quickly called her, she came over and I picked her up to take her away.
I could’ve easily been bitten by a husky and a german shepherd for picking her up and taking her away…but was shooting the dogs the first thing that popped into my head?! NO IT WERE TO TAKE MY DOG AWAY FROM HARM AND TO REACT TO THE SITUATION LIKE ANY HUMAN BEING WOULD DO! I’d rather get the blow rather than my dog!
So that being said…maybe he is an abusive husband if he is that quick to react…especially with his own dog and family within feet of him firing off that weapon!!
Here’s a thought…What if a dog bumped him while firing the weapon and he raised his hand and shot an innocent person? Would that be an apology of the family and he would go on living life in the free? I’m sure of it…why? “I feared for my life…”. Bull$hit.
Go ahead and roll your eyes. If you were smart, it was more or less a statement of “be in my shoes” for the family of Bear.
How would you feel if I shot your dog for no reason? Ever hear someone call their dog a family member? Would you be upset? I’m sure you would be more than upset! Exactly the point I were getting at, thank you.
Kevin,
Saying “I know for a fact the husky did nothing wrong”, speaks volumes to your thought process. And then saying “What if a dog bumped him while firing the weapon and he raised his hand and shot an innocent person?” that’s great
What if you were driving a 1 ton car and a fly flew into your eye and you veered onto the sidewalk and killed someone. That is a very real possibility so I would appreciate it if you never drove a car again and it would also be great if you stopped coming up with ridiculous hyothetical situations.
If you shot my dog, I’d want you punished, I wouldn’t want the dog punished.
And I completely agree with you on the “feared for my life” b.s., that’s just the legal requirement for being able to use lethal force in self defense. So this cop is just saying what he’s been advised to say.
The beating his wife is completely unfounded, my guess is this cop only had a gun with him and so that’s what he defaulted to using. Having your wife and kids with you just reinforces the need to use a more effective means of defense so they don’t get hurt. Without them around, it’s possible the cop would have just kicked the other dog.
Like I said though, this is all speculation, can’t really make any decisions not having been there. That’s what court is for.
You’re an idiot for even posting that! Things unexpected happen like your theory of a fly flying in someone’s eye while driving.
These are all hypothetical situations that need to be viewed. It’s called “public safety”; especially for a person that is supposed to support “public safety”!
I’m sure a prosecuting lawyer would use a theory like that (so therefore its not ridiculous) to put a different perspective into others minds.
What if? You don’t know, neither do I. I could have a fly fall into my eye and die today, tomorrow, next week, etc.. You know as much as I do. Your tire can blow and wreck and be placed in an IC unit, so therefore you should stay off of the road as well if you want to play a stupid game like that.
All of the many comments that I have read in this thread make one point indisputable: You/we are all looking at this from the perfect 20-20 hindsight perspective. I’m sure the owners of the husky are devastated by the loss of their pet; I’m sure the shepherd’s owners wish they’d never gone to the park. I have had many, many dear pets from small kittens to 1600-pound horses, 110 pound german shepherd who WAS dog aggressive, and all I have to say is that not one of us can say with total accuracy what we individually would have done in the same circumstances. Remember, too, that each of the breeds involved in this event have, unfortunately, bad reputations in some people’s eyes based on past the histories of each. Giving someone ‘a cause’ for justice amounts to sensationalizing a sad story and making it that much harder for these families to get back to some sort of normal.
Brian: I understand your points completly. It is all speculation, but a lot is left out. Did the agent viciously grab the dog and the dog came back with that? It doesn’t say. Dog’s rarely do things like that for no reason unless they are trained immorally (which again you would not see that dog in public).
The way I interpreted this story is that the dog was playing with the German Shepherd. The German Shepherd can easily take care of itself and there were no need for that guy to even pull out a firearm.
I don’t understand why someone would take a dog that is morally bad to an off-leashed park and not care. There are signs posted that you are to be in control of your dogs at all times or fines will occur. Maybe there should be more security (like security cameras) at these places so something like this doesn’t happen again, and if it does happen again it’s all on video and can be clearly seen.
Thats just me.
So on one hand you say “he is an off duty copy, he shouldn’t carry his firearm and act like he is on duty” but on the other you are saying he’s “supposed to support public safety” when he is off duty?
It’s going to be hard to keep up with you if you keep contradicting yourself like this.
And no you could not be any more incorrect about a prosecuting lawyer using your ridiculous theory in a court of law. It is actually stunning to read your thought process.
Everyone who owns a dog has a responsibility! Police Officers are trained to pull the trigger as a last resort! It’s easy to second guess an action of an individual after the fact. But what the media is not reporting or investigating, where was the owner of the dog that was shot? Why did he/she NOT put there dog back on the leash and control the animal. Had I been there and this had happened and it put me and my family in harms way, I too would have dispatched the dog. As I said before, EVERY dog owner has a responsiblity to maintain and control their pet! The dog owners are overreacting.
Nick,
The officer had a leashed dog in an off leash fenced dog park, that’s a recipe for disaster. Behavior drastically changes when you mix on and off leash dogs.
Also if your going to bring your dog into an off leash dog park, you need to expect interaction and possible nipping between dogs. He wasn’t approached by a dog wondering around, he was in an off lead dog park.
Lets put the blame where it belongs…with the dogs owners. They apparently were not paying attention or within voice control of their dog. Had their dog been trained to verbal commands he would of stopped at his owners commands.
But no as I see it the owners of the dead dog did nothing to ensure the safety of others by constantly monitoring their pet.
Thank god for officers who are out there both on duty and off to protect us from viscious people and animals alike. To threaten the officer with legal charges just goes to show who’s in charge of the insane asylum….you crazy people who put your own blame onto others who you force to act/react to your stupid actions.
You have pets keep em on a leash! Dummy!
My Condolences to the family who lost their pet.
I did not read many of the responses– but I can say that many good dog trainers tell owners DO NOT take your dog to dog parks. Dog’s fighting each other can happen often and owners do not always train their dogs as they should.
If you love your family pet – walk them away from other dogs that are strange to them and your neighborhood. STAY AWAY FROM DOGS PARKS,
Dogs are pack animals and dog parks allow them a chance to socialize, however you must use caution and common sense when entering a dog park environment. I always pay close attention when someone brings an aggressive breed into the park – and HUSKYS make the top three. A Husky attacked my senior dog, unprovoked although they had played together many times prior. A different Husky grabbed a puppy by the neck and killed it this summer at our dog beach. I understand this officer’s decision to use force. Just two days ago, I was in the dog park and someone brought in a 120 lb Rottweiller who proceeded to attack three small dogs within 5 minutes. I chose to take my dogs out of the park but had that Rott attacked me or one of my dogs before I could get to the gate and I had a gun….. BAD owners are responsible for these tragedies. The Husky’s owner in this story allowed the aggressive behavior and dismissed it as play. He let his pet down by allowing it to act out in a social environment where that is NOT welcome. People who frequent dog parks understand there is etiquette to observe and that only good, responsbile owners and their SOCIAL animals are welcome. What a shame that such an otherwise happy place has become the site for such tragedy. POs make life or death decisions in a split second and we have to trust that they are well-trained professionals. If this Husky had attacked a child and the officer failed to act with deadly force, this would be a very different outcome.
This individual, and any other officer, needs to receive precisely the same treatment from our justice system that a non-officer would receive. Since they obviously have problems with judgement and are a danger to others, it is in the interests of public safety that Keith Shephard has his right to carry a gun revoked.
Off duty Federal officer shoots dog? where is the mandatory sobriety check? No bite marks? just another bullet happy cop. no wonder criminals carry guns.
I would hope that this off duty federal officer is FIRED from his job – he acts impulsively and not in the best interests of the public. He is precisely the wrong kind of person having in law enforcement. I have no doubt that a full investigation will reveal that his man has had other problems with inappropriate aggression and threatening others.
He needs to go to jail and have all animals removed from him.
My condolences to the family of Bear Bear. I hope they sue this violent nut and make him pay.
GOOD on the recent update – for a misdemeanor that cop will never see jail time but that is TYPICAL for cops to just decide to pull their gun at WHATEVER provocation. No injuries on cop or cop’s Shepherd mean the cop was LYING. I hope he loses his job as well, the bastard!!!!
1. its an OFF-LEASH DOG PARK, OFF LEASH!- ie dogs run around and play, they get hyper, they tackle each other and even fights break out as there pack instincts kick in- and then on top of that you have dominance fights as in a dog park most dogs feel as if they are dominant as there the dominant ones in there houses…
2. you cant fault somebody for carrying a gun legally under the law, however, you have to know how to properly use that weapon in what ever situation your in and always carry non-lethals with you as well, this guy should not have relied on his gun as his first weapon that was his major mistake, his second mistake was also probably not being familiar with how dog parks operate or function with OFF LEASH dogs in them, his third mistake was also in not making sure that the entrance was clear and remained clear to release the dog- IE beware, be educated and know what your doing at all times when you are operating with a sidearm or waling in a dog park/anywhere else for that matter.
3. its not wise to assume that because you have a GSD you have a dog capable of winning a fight, its about temperament, i own a GSD- and at home shes top dog but also very much the couch potato and at dog parks therefore because shes laid back she becomes the omega or some times a mid rank dog of the pack, fight wise ive seen her get into a tussle before and its not pretty-so if this situation occurred-for me i would first used my body as barrier- secondly i would have assumed dominate tone and posture-then physically tried separated the two- if i got chomped on or the fight escalated into fur tearing territory- then you go for the dog mace, if that fails and it escalates further- then you just might be forced to use a gun if available- (granted a taser would actually be the next step)- but its dangerous as more than liely gonna wind up shooting multiple dogs with one round- really only if life is in danger should the lethal option be explored, as for the taser- animal tasers too are equally dangerous-ultimately you need to take steps and precautions so you never wind up making such choices.
4. should the guy have his life ruined for this – i cant fault him for wanting to defend him self and his family and his dog, i wasn’t there i don’t know how bad it was really- but its clear that with better training and knolege on his part Bear-Bear would probably still be alive and he wouldn’t be looking at the end of his career, on that note the guy needs retrainedon firearms and public safety as well as to be forced to pay restitution at least in my book-
5. is the owner of bear-bear responsible?- to some extent-yes- but so is the fbi guy- both owners let there dogs down by not being mindful – like all dog owners including my self, its our responsibility to make sure our dogs and us are operating in a safe manner so that for all- everyone can have a good time- ( and if that means you have to baby sit humanity as well- looks out for other dogs as well- then do so- blaming people does nothing being mindful and proactive would have prevented this)
The same thing happened in Bedford New Hampshire. The off duty Manchester Police officer took out his 17 round pistol in a public park, fired 6 times at a 42 pound dog, hit him twice and killed him. The Bedford police chief said he what he did was right. Who is more dangerous, the nut who fires 6 times in a public park or a police chief that justifies it? If a civilian fired a gun 6 times in a public park I bet that police chief would have killed him and justified that!!!!
I would love to see Ceasars take on this. I am a support of police officers, gun owners and I LOVE my best buddy Zip. So the whole incident is unfortunate but any one knows NOT to get in a dog fight and if truth be told it was most likely a “show” of dominance by the husky and the fact that others have pointed out is you DO NOT bring a leashed dog into an off leash area. Thats why there is the transitional area. Do I believe the officer over reacted??? Yes. Is this the guy I want shooting some ahole attacking me if needed???? Yes. But just like any incident this office discharged his firearm and should be subject to the same criteria he would for any other incident where he fires his gun in the line of duty. Ceasar check in dude I would like to here what you have to say!!!!!
It sounds like the officer in question was an inexperienced dog owner and he reacted, as has been mentioned, out of fear. Having worked in shelters for years, it still comes as a slight shock when two dogs go at it. Again, as was mentioned, the first thing that comes to mind is that ‘if I step in between, I’m going to get bit.” What makes this worse is that the other dog and no humans were injured. If you are going to take your dog to a dog park, you need to understand that a)dogs won’t always get along but also b)dogs play rough, especially bigger dogs and c) extra especially bigger dogs who are known to be stubborn, alpha, etc (huskies, etc). It is important as the owner to pay attention to the signs displayed by the dog and to not overreact.
A dog seems to know when you’re down, blue, etc, so why wouldn’t they pick up when you are afraid. The off-duty officer seems to clearly have been afraid and, utlitizing the mega-male ethos instilled in people that carry firearms or weapons in general, he released his testosterone through his trigger finger in an attempt to exert some authority over the situation.
It is a shame that Bear-Bear was felled by an incompetent police officer. People can go back and forth on respecting the law and officers and any of that, but when a cop, a paragon of good judgement and civil society, acts so irrationally under the guise of “protection” it just makes me upset that they can get away with things like that.
Shoot my dog and I shoot u and your family.
Considering the lack of injury to Asia and any humans in the area, I would have to say that this ‘officer’ should be permanently relieved of his weapon. If your first thought is to shoot something, there’s a problem. Being a gun owner with the right to carry concealed I know that I have a weapon at my disposal and the last thing an armed person should be thinking is that they will use deadly force in such a situation. Getting in the middle of a dogfight will certainly get you bitten; chalk that up to human stupidity. But ‘dogfight’ seems to be an overstatement in a situation where only one animal was harmed and that was fatally at the hands of a human. It just proves that guns don’t kill, the person handling it does.
I read this story and it does make me said that the animal was put down. However as everyone out there knows that over reaction is a subjective opinion just as is under or inadequate reaction. This officer was there, his wife was there, the person responsible for the other animal was there. They are the only ones that know how serious the situation was. As to judging this officer due to the lack of visible injury (ie the dog needing stitches) if you have ever been bitten by an attacking animal they have incredible jaw strength and could possibly do more damage with thier crushing jaw power. How can anyone know how much damage would be done just because the dog didnt bleed does not mean it would not be severly injured. Yes if you stick your hand into the fray of two animals you are likely to get snapped at but as soon as the husky went back on the attack of the german shepherd, I believe the officer had the justification to protect his animal and family. If this husky would have been attacking a child would you want this officer to wait to see blood spewing or the owner to get there to react. Hell No you wouldnt. You would be pissed off because he didnt react the first time the dog bit the child. Again I feel badly for the husky and his owners, but I dont think for a second this officer should be charged.
While I am a gun owner, I am not an officer of the law. However, had that off-duty cop shot and killed MY dog, I wouldn’t have had a second thought about shooting and killing the cop’s dog or the cop himself. What’s most alarming is that he claims he had to shoot Bear-Bear because he was biting his own dog….yet, there is no evidence that the cop’s dog was bitten at all. Sounds like it’s another case of “I’m a cop and can do whatever I want whenever I want.” I just hope karma bites the cop in the ass good and hard!
suzieQ… did you ever go to university of delaware? anyways. Its BS. He should be fine. I doubt that he will be found guilty. It was an animal and he was bitten by it. That is enough to threaten his safety and his wifes safety. He had the right to pull and discharge his government issue firearm.
I have a siberian husky and she does not get a long well with other dogs. They are known to have aggressive behavior, especially when off leash. Owners of husky should know this and monitor them accordingly. I feel this is a terrible tragedy and the dog should not have been shot! Also what person (adults & children) doesn’t know that you are NEVER suppose to stop a dog fight with your bare hands, this part is unbelievable, any numbskull knows you can and will get bit!!!!!
Most everyone complaining about the cop here….. wtf??? Obey the law in the first place, keep your dog under control and this would have NEVER happend. I think the cop had every right to SHOOT the dog. The only thing I hate worse than a dog having to die, is the idiot owner that doesn’t properly care and attend after it.
I think everyone is over reacting. The dog attacked his dog and went to attack him. What was he suppose to do ” oh it’s okay, it’s a public dog park. I’ll just be attacked and let my dog be attacked.” Also I think the charges against him are just a bit much. it was self defense, geez. Also people OFF duty officers are allowed and authorized to carry their guns even when off duty. I understand it was an animal and I feel badly for the owners and the dog, but the dog was being vicious and he had every right to defend himself,his family and his dog. End of story.
Husky Killed by Off Duty Cop
If I were the Vet investigating this mishap I would Xray
the dogs brain. This dog sounds like he was artificially
provoked to the point where he got severely aggressive. He
may have been fitted sophisticated technology and programmed to attack. I do not believe this dog was responsible for what happened. I would also investigate
the dogs food. His food could have been contaminated with chemicals that would bring on an aggression such as this.
Were any of the above posters there to witness what happened? Are you all the same people that immediately rush to judgement especially if it gives you the opportunity to take down law enforcement. I will give the federal officer/agent the benefit of the doubt for now.
And if he is a federal agent, he is authorized to carry a firearm at all times and to enforce federal law as well as being obligated to act in any public safety instance.
Did he do that? We don’t know. But I also know that just because some politically appointed prosecutor is going after him does not imply his guilt. Often times, overreactions such as those above, from the public, will get a prosecutor to do something unethical. Not to say that is happening, but it’s a good possibility.
What, is everyone posting on here from San Fransisco? Yes, I feel for the owners of the dog. A sad day it is when a dog has to be put down. Yes, the police officer now should be evaluated after discharging his firearm in such a precarious situation. HOWEVER, if indeed his dog was being attacked and after notifying the owner of the other dog to retrieve him, I say he was in full right to make that judgment call. I’m not a right wing, gun toting, bible-thumping conservative, but I’m not going to stand around and be threatened by a vicious person or dog. If possible, walk away from the threat but if you can’t what else are you supposed to do?
I don’t understand people these days..I support the officer in his decision.. people are so quick to point fingers and not consider all the dangerous possibilities an animal is capable of … my condolences go out to bear bears family as I too am a dog owner and love my dog..when did this society start placing more worth on an animal and less on a human life
f bear bear. he deserved it. i know that dog personally, and that thing needed to be put down. it wasnt a husky, it was a god forsaken wolf. f bear bear.
If the officer thought his dog was in danger, he has every right to put a bullet in the Husky. He did due diligence in trying to break it up, his dogs life was in danger.
I carry concealed, in our town this park would be an open carry zone, your choice open or concealed. No discharging within city limits except for snakes, mad dogs, injured animals. You would get no where in this town with a lawsuit IF the facts are as I interpret them.
BS! control your dog. IF you don’t then you’re a moron and your dog should be shot. According tot he story he said the dogs were “playing roughly” sounds to me like he saw them fighting and did nothing.
Personally i carry mace a knife and a gun when i walk my dog because ton of morons let their dogs run free and in my state it is legal to kill any aggressive animal int he public highway. To bad this didn’t happen in Michigan. He would be fine.
Want to offer condolences to the couple who owned Bear-Bear; dogs many times become a cherished member of the family and it’s devastating to lose them no matter the circumstances.
I also want to point out a few things to consider:
1. most off-leash dog parks require that the dog be under the control (verbal or otherwise) of its handler;
2. many off-leash dog parks require that dogs are leashed when entering and leaving the enclosed area;
3. a threat can exist whether or not there is resulting injury.
As in every other aspect of your life, judgment and common sense are key components when dealing with any animal – domestic or wild. Add the absolute responsibility you have when carrying a weapon (LE or civilian), and this is a bad situation to find yourself in.
Many of the comments in this thread seem to be rather presumptuous; let all the facts play out before you hang the guy.
I am appalled at this incident. I have taken my small dog to a dog park on occasion and have never witnessed any action like that. Our dog parks have a release from leash area that is fenced off. It is always safer to release the dog from a leash. That way they can defend themselves either by running from the aggressor or be free to fight back. If I ever saw an individual with a gun in a dog park, 911 would be my immediate response. My heartfelt feelings go out to the owners of Bear Bear. How sad. I hope he is proscuted but usually the law inforcement types get off, at least in California. No matter how egregious the action. Locally twice of duty cops have been found to not be guilty by our local DA, one for shooting a spor
As a Siberian Husky owner, I am well aware that they can be a very headstrong and tempermental breed. Many have been the times that our 4YO female has driven me to the brink of madness by her behaviors. However, of the many ways I can think of to describe the breed, outright aggression towards other large breeds doesn’t fit at all. If the alleged “victim” here had been a pomeranian or any feline, then I could definitely imagine an attack. Huskies have a very strong prey drive and will attack and kill just about anything small and furry. My husky has interacted with bulldogs, german shephards, spitz, labs, even chows positively. Short of some up front postering and maybe rough play, it never escalated to an all out attack. She has never shown any aggression towards a human ever.
I think this is a case of a trigger happy law enforcement officer who was intimidated by the scary looking wolf-dog and overreacted.
it seems unlikely that the GERMAN SHEPARD this want to b man of the peace was walking is just going to let another dog attack it… we all know why police officers have this dogs … they are vicious when ordered and can be a formitable opponent against any man or beast….
another example of the gastapo tactics used by the police at free will. While the majority of police are “good cops” the ones we most commonly encounter are the ones in your face, smack you around, lie, and have the “us versus them” attitude. He needs to be made an example of and fired from his “serving the community” role.
I walk into a dog park, my dog is under control on a lease an unleashed dog aggressively runs up to my dog, I pull my dog back, but the other dog continues his aggression, I holler at the stupid owner to come get his dog, trying to keep my dog from being harmed, the situation escalates, I kick the aggressive dog to no avail, so I draw my legally carried firearm, shoot into the air, no where’s the bullet going to land, shoot ground why, unless the aggressor is gun shy what good is it going to do. Fearing for my dogs well being as well as my own I reluctantly shoot the dog. The dog owner hollers at me because he did not have his dog well trained enough to come when called. No matter what it is if it won’t come to you when you call it, it is not a pet. No I’m not a nut case just a firm believer in the right of self preservation. I cried like a baby every time one of my dogs died so I’m not anti dog.
All you commentators condemning cops, who are you going to call when some crack head comes busting through you door in the middle of the night. There are bad cops and there are good cops, there are bad dog owners and good dog owners. Whose to say which is which.
I live near the dog park and witnesses say that Bear Bear did not attack his dog. The police officer was a federal officer at a gov’t agency and as it turns out, as not authorized to even carry a gun at the park. The people on this board that have come to the police officer’s defense do not understand dogs. Killing an innocent dog for normal behavior is sick and I’m glad the officer has been charged. I only wish it had been a felony, not a mesdemeanor.
Typical Americans. It’s not that people shouldn’t carry guns, but rather that people as IDIOTIC as Americans shouldn’t carry guns. You are the laughingstock of the entire planet. And a dying empire, imploding from within – a spectical for others to watch.
Too bad he didn’t shoot the owner and himself… you dog owners are bunch of goons.
Canadian, get a life. You people up north are a bunch of liberal whiners who are afraid of your own shadows. To others, a most Federal Officer are required to carry there weapon at all times, and if you are ever in circumstances where you need one to protect you, you will understand why. In addition, commissioned Federal officers do not need to follow State laws on the carry of their weapons.
If they did, no Federal agent could carry in IL.
All of you can say what you want, but you were not there. You only have the statements from bear-bear’s owners and one of two other people who admittedly, do not like guns or law enforcement officers.
By the way, I have malamutes and would hate to see one get shot, but I would not allow it to run and jump on another dog, and if it did, I would get it off. Not stand around with my finger inserted in a dark spot.
I am amazed that readers can infer so much from so little. The comments reflect the imagination and biases of the readers more than anyone else. Was it justified? Who can tell?
If an officer is going to use his or her service weapon, it better be for the duty duly appointed. If not, this officer is not fit for what the position he holds. Let’s just hope the next victim is not himself ; otherwise, we all taxpayers have to pay for his or her poor judgement even is off-duty.
An off duty cop shooting at the least provocation and thinking stupidly. Too bad Bear bear was not handcuffed and shot in the back of the head. Cops are armed assassins with a trigger guided by fear – with reason. The USA has too many guns, too many cops, too many criminals and too many immigrants. Downsize the nation of killers.
Even so if the dog was acting like this the cop should of tried to get away before taking that step to shoot and kill the dog. I think the cop felt big and tough carrying that gun so he wanted to use it. He could of waited for the owner to come over and help. If he was in the right he could of walked away with bites and not with killing a dog that some other family loved and cared for. I hope he gets charged and knows that many people are outraged
Im pretty sure the author is of this article is just a pacifist and if she were in the same situation as the cop, all she would have done is use some harsh language and then watch both dogs tear each other apart. What if the dog had attacked a person? I love animals too, but I wouldnt stand by and watch another dog hurt mine. And just because its a dog park, it doesnt mean its ok for everyone to let their dogs run loose. Does anyone ever watch the Discovery channel??? Most dogs try and show their dominance over each other and humans in different ways, and seeing these two dogs fight is no big surprise.
I’ve had my dogs mauled by other dogs before. I’ve kicked the other dogs, beat the with a fish bat, tried to stab them, and would have shot them myself. I’ve threatened the other owners and pushed one into the ocean over the maulings. If I had a gun, I’d do the same as this guy.
Siberian huskies are beautiful dogs, and I’ve never encountered one who was vicious or dangerous. I live in Alaska, and we have many of them here. They seem pretty laid back, the young ones are actually shy. It really sounds unnecessary to have to have shot and killed Bear-Bear. There are nonlethal ways to control a dog. How sad.
My peaceful Rottweiler was in my yard (on a leash) and the neighbor’s Adult Boxer got off his leash and bee-lined at him. My dog NEVER attacked, snapped at, or even ran towards any other person or dog in his entire life. In fact, his favorite play buddy was a toy poodle in the adjoining yard. That poodle couldn’t even reach my dog’s head by jumping, but Gus would fall over dramatically when he did and act like he had been dealt a mortal blow and kick his legs in the air in “agony”. They were best pals.
When the Boxer was close to Gus, he stiffened and I saw his muscles cord (bad sign) for the impending impact. The Boxer bit him several times about the muzzle, ears, and shoulders, delivering what appeared to be a particularly savage head-shaking bite to the loose skin at Gus’ neck area.
This all happened with me nearby but I was unable to get the Boxer off Gus.
Gus sustained a bite to his sensitive nose and snarled and took the full grown adult boxer’s ENTIRE HEAD in his jaws past his ears. At the same moment, the boxer reared back to free himself, and Gus planted his CONAN-LIKE bulk with his front paws and reared back also.
The Boxer got away…his head skinned from behind the ears forward as simply as removing a rubber mask. (He had to be put down) His owner showed up then, kicking Gus and swinging his angry fists at me.
I removed my concealed carry weapon from my side and suggested he wait on HIS property for the police to arrive.
He readily agreed.
Problem solved and no more aggressive next door Boxer to worry about when my kids were outside.
I understand the frustrations of dog lovers. But what i don’t understand is the negative comments im hearing about police. Has any of you watched the news lately! Do you the crimes and murders that the police have to deal with. On top of trying to protect civilians. I believe in giving credit where credit is due. That officer risk his life everyday for our safety. How dare anyone
pass judgement on him. If anything someone need to comment on the irresponsible owner that neglected to pay attention to his dog. What the hack was he doing when this fight took place! That’s animal neglect. He knew it was a non-leash park, he should paid closer attention to his dog.
@ #683 “Canadian” …
Thanks to your neighboring “Idiots” you aren’t the subjects of attack by other Nations.
Break diplomatic ties with us and see how long THAT lasts….idiot.
What are you going to do? Offer them some beer and then say: “k, take off, eh?”
GL with that strategy.
If it was a federal peace officer, they have signifigant jurisdiction and ability to carry a weapon with them almost anywhere they are. This is not just “some” citizen carrying a gun, this is a highy trained individual who is obviously trusted by the Government to fulfill a duty.
There are always two sides to every story, trusting the information the media shares doesn’t do anyone any good.
I have unfortunately been the victim of a similiar incident. Being in Law Enforcement myself, I understand and preceive threats and would also protect myself and others selflessly. The 85lb dog that latched it’s teeth into my leg unfortunately had the same fate. The difference is…I used every other means I could to get this dog off of me. There was NOTHING I could have done to change what happened. There is also nothing I can say that would enlighten some of you people to the dangers Officers face everyday. Yes, I am aware we chose our career, but comprehend that what we do is so that you are safe on a daily basis. So that you can walk your dogs in a park and not get mugged, assaulted, or worse.
Let’s not blame the animals, blame the owners for the way they raise, treat, and handle their pets. Both parties involved are responsible for the outcome of this tragic incident that could have been avoided. I am shocked and disturbed by some of the comments on here.
Was it appropriate to fire a gun in public, putting innocent people, children, and other dogs in the neighborhood at risk?
Really? So was he running a muck discharging the weapon at random or did he take aim at the dog and fire? If he took aim then I suggest you take time to learn how firearms work. If he takes aim at the dog, as a trained police officer with weapons training and qualifications, I hardly think it was the oh-so-close mass tragedy that you make it out to be.
Wow. What a thread. I loved all the hyperbole! Great generalizations.. few facts to hold you back.. awesome tales of other dog attacks, guns and cops. I appreciate all of the emotions invested in this. I even sided with many of the writers, swinging back and forth from comment to comment. Bad dog, good gun, stupid dog parks, bad cop, good cop, human idiots, idiot dogs.
Just goes to show what our emotions can do to sway our opinions. I think I’m sorry for everyone in the story, certainly Bear-Bear.
Maybe we can do a post about a retired Blackwater operative drowning kittens in a burlap sack to rescue a baby?
My question is – what would this guy have done if he wasn’t an off duty officer carrying a weapon? Must not see enough action on the job and had to play big bad man in front of his wife.
I have two huskies – yes they play rough. But are you going to tell me that Asia wasn’t having fun right up until the blood splatter of his new buddy.
It’s too bad animal cruelty is only a misdemeanor, I would be sitting in jail for turning the gun back in the guy’s face.
And why wasn’t the guy smart enough to know the risks of entering an off-leash park? Dogs are going to come up to play with other dogs!
Who are you to say he used excessive force? Oh, you were there? Your dog was being bitten? You were being bit? As long as he warned the dog’s owner and assuming he did try to get the dog off before shooting as he claims, then he did the right thing. And as far as your outlandish claim that he put people in danger using his handgun, that’s exactly what firearms are for, they help resolve dangerous situations. If the owner had gotten his dog off the officer’s dog, the huskie would still be alive..period. Now, all you hippies need to wake up and smell the gun powder!
I love animals, but I have a small dog and too often other dog owners are out with their dogs off leashes or they leave them in a open backyard off a leash or chain. I have been charged 5 times when I was just walking my dog. Luckily I was able to stop the charge and the dogs have so far backed off. However up the street a small dog got killed by a pitbull that lived across the street from him because again, the owner, left him off the leash. It’s frightening when a large animal is coming at you and my dog is my baby and I would do anything to protect her.
I think he did the right thing! If a dog were attacking my dog and I attempted to get the dog off and it bit me; I totally would’ve shot it. What if it was a child?? I LOVE my dog but I also know that not all dogs get along and it’s the OWNER’s responsibility to keep their dog in order.
When my german shepherd was attacked by two pit bulls in a pet store I would have shot them both if I had been armed. As with all stories there are two sides to this one. My sense is that there are always those waiting to pounce on police officers without knowing all the facts. That’s what seems to be happening here. A lynch mob is forming against a police officer for doing what any dog owner would do to protect his dog. HIS DOG WAS ON A LEASH! The other dog wasn’t. I know it was a dog park but the owners are still responsible for restraining their dogs. What if it was a child who was attacked? The husky’s owners are responsible for their dog’s behavior, like it or not.
The officer overreacted but the owner of the husky was irresponsible in letting such a powerful dog off lead when it was obvious he couldn’t control him. This situation would have never happened if his owner had been a responsible one.
@Planet Earth:
Maybe you ought to consider looking up the law before you pull out that weapon you’re so proud you carry. You absolutely do NOT have the right to use deadly force to protect property. And whether you like it or not, your dog is considered property under the law.
So go ahead and discharge that weapon, Rambo. But be ready to pay the consequences because you will lose in court.
And if there were any justice in the world, the person whose dog you shot would put one between your eyes. Fair is fair, after all.
Although, self-defense is supportive…….. it also is a spontaneous, short order and a last defense method of control only when a human life is in that danger……..key word——–> last method of defense………however, couldn’t the officer have rang off a shot(s) nearby into the ground……..to break up the dog-fight?……….was that done 1st? …………..Its really hard to judge this incident, only by hearing about this story on the web………..being there where the officer was may tell a different story………everyone there knows how territorial some dogs are like….. huskies!……..even on public property!
What everyone needs to ask themselves is this. What if the shooter had not been a cop, but just some smoe off the streets? I think the officer in question is getting to much slack just because he is a cop. This was in an off the leash dog park. Dogs fight every once in a while. If it had been my dog, cop or not, myself and Mr. Shepard would have a little fight ourselves.
If your three year old attacks mine I’ll shoot him.
My 4 y/o daughter and I were attacked in a park early one morning by a Husky with an irresponsible owner. We were there with our 8 wk/o Spaniel and the full grown Husky (who I might add was NOT LEASHED) raced across the park in what seemed at the time his attack-mode. Having been raised with dogs my entire life – I knew not to run – however – my daughter just saw a huge dog running towards her bearing his teeth and snarling angrily. By the look of terror in here eyes I could tell she was about to bolt and as I lunged forward to stop her from running I sustained 2 herniated discs in my lower back causing me to have back surgery 3 months later to repair the damage.
I have also owned a Husky and while I find them wonderful animals I found them to be territorial and quite protective of “THEIR TURF”.
STILL – I find myself terribly saddened by the un-necessary loss of Bear-Bear. My heart goes out to the family. TO THE “OFFICER” – I HAD A DOG GO AFTER MY BABY AND SMALL PUPPY AND I WAS ABLE TO HANDLE THAT SITUATION WITHOUT A WEAPON- YOU CAN’T TELL ME THAT YOU WERE’NT ABLE TO DO THE SAME – - – WITHOUT KILLING (MURDERING) THE DOG. I had a child and a puppy – you on the other hand had an adult human and full grown dog!!! Did you REALLY NEED a gun??? Shame on you – Shame on you for the negative Public Relations you’ve imparted on your department. Maybe YOU should be the one on the LEASH!!
I want to start that I am a dog lover, but since there are no witnesses to this act, we can only base our decisions on what the victims are saying. Remember if the officer perceived a threat to his life then he has the right to defend himself and others. This is still an animal. If he acted in just protecting his dog then it is a different story. I for one would need to hear all sides of the story. At this point I believe the officer and not the dog’s owners brother. Where was he throughout the incident. I ama responsible dog owner and even in the off leash areas of my development I am near my dog and aware of where she is at all times. Responsibility of the dog owner seems to be questionable.
This man was NOT a police officer. He is a rent a cop for the DOD. Had no biz with a gun off duty, although it is allowed by law. Had no biz taking his dog on a leash into the off leash park. Apparently totally clueless about dog parks. He did not live in the area……….those who know realize all the dogs rush to greet a new comer, and were surely interested in one that was on a leash. I doubt that there was any fight……bear just charged, like most dogs do to see the new guy. I hope Bear’s family sues the pants of this guy. Even more scary………he works with a gun!!! Is he going to shoot some kid who runs up to him??????????
Sorry, but if a dog attacks my dog, then me, and continues attacking my dog, I’m killing it. Period. Dead as a doornail the first time. Make sure it’s not your dog, and there’s no issue. The lesson to be learned is control your dog.
This has nothing to do with having the dog on the leash or the GSD being able to “take care of itself.”
And the one saying she felt sorry for his wife is just moronic and out of line. Grow up, man hater.
OMGosh People! If you’ll recall, there were no other witnesses. You’re condemning this guy and you weren’t even there. I agree with the person that mentioned this is a trained officer, not a trigger happy thug. If he felt there was danger than I’m apt to give him the benefit of the doubt until proven otherwise! The owner of the husky should have had his dog under control at ALL times. If he was unable to do so he shouldn’t have taken him to a public dog park.
OK, the guy was an officer carrying his gun,where was his Pepper spray. The Pepper spray would have ended this fight real quick without death. or risk to others. I think he might be guilty under the federal stupidity act of not reacting in a scaled way.!!!
Jack,
“This has nothing to do with having the dog on the leash or the GSD being able to take care of itself”
I’m not defending either side here because I like everyone else doesn’t know all the facts, but this statement could not be more false. Any responsible dog owner should know the dynamics of dog behavior change drastically when you have on lead dogs interact with off lead dogs. This was a fenced off-lead area and he should have removed the lead in the double gate area before entering the off-lead area. There is no excuse for that, at all.
I’m not saying he couldn’t protect himself or his family, but his original actions were a recipe for disaster.
Dear “Planet Earth”,
Your comment about the husky’s owner being at fault irritates me. They were at a DOG PARK. All dog’s but this “officer’s” were off leash. That is a HUGE no-no. It sends a message to other dogs that he is “weaker” and to be “dominated” as it were.
There were no marks, scratches or puncture wounds on the GS. There were no marks, scratches or puncture wounds on the “officer” and his wife.
So what you’re saying is, if my Rat Terrier, “attacked” your dog, you’d shoot it?
Just cuz you have a gun, doesn’t mean you should whip it out at your slightest whim. Dogs usually handle things just fine when people leave them alone. If your solution is to shoot a dog when it acts like a dog, then maybe you should make sure you don’t any dogs. I feel sorry for any dog that has you as an owner
This is so sad. Even more sad is to see people defending a cop that they know nothing about. Only a moron would try to say that all police are good people and none of them are maniacs who took that job because they get to carry a gun and drive fast. Cops routinely get pulled over for DUI and let go by their fellow cops. Sure, there are many good people in law enforcement, but there are also a lot of a$$holes. As someone who thinks that animals are not worthless and expendable I would not be opposed to executing this loser. Or maybe feed to him to wolves. A misdemeanor fine is certainly not adequate punishment.
Sean,
So in one sentence you say it is sad that people defend someone they don’t know, but in that same paragraph you say this person you don’t know should be executed…
Yeah, that’s the word hypocrite slapping you in the face. And cops don’t get routinely pulled over for DUI and let go, it’s happened before yes, but your acting like a drama queen. Also in the recorded 911 call the officer made immediatly after the event, he tells the operator he shot the dog in the hip and really needs to get vet attention to help the animal. He doesn’t sound as heartless and nutso as some people are trying to make the officer out to be.
14) Husky owner says: After almost 30 years on the job working closely with POs I found that many consider themselves above the law and are God’s gift to humanity. The reality is that 99.99% of their job is writing up reports and driving around. It’s Firefighters and EMS that put themselves in danger every day for you ….. but rarely cops.
Are you serious Husky? Cops spend 99.99% of their time writing reports and driving around? Where the heck did you work “closely” with PO (which by the way is a common acronym for “Probation Officer”)? Let me guess, Mayberry RFD? I want you to take a trip to D.C. and stand in front of the Police Memorial and read each and every name and then dare to post again police officers do not place themselves in harms way. Better yet, the next time you are robbed, your house is ransacked, or some idiot harms a member of your family, be sure to tell that responding officer they don’t put themselves in harms way and they spend 99.99% of their time doing paperwork.
As far as this idiot is concerned who thought it wise to bring a loaded weapon to a public dog park and discharge it, he should be penalized for being a moron. Fine him and make him work for the Humane Society for a while as punishment. I assure you, he is in more than enough trouble at work. However, in the interest of fairness, let’s let this play out in a court of law. There the facts will come out.
Now, speaking as a former law enforcement officer and the proud owner of two German Shepherds, I can tell you that his German Shepherd could have taken care of himself and “Daddy” should have stepped away and let the pack handle it. I always erred on the side of caution in that whenever I brought my shepherd to the dog park, I placed a zap collar around his neck and kept the remote in my pocket, just in case he decided to go postal on another dog.
Remember, what I said “Husky Owner”. Get yourself down to that memorial soon.
What a bunch of tree-hugging, dog-loving comments.. And the knee-jerk reaction of the prosecutors, the dog came over, attacked his dog, the knucklehead owner’s brother should have known how the dog would react. if you can’t control your dog, don’t bring him to the dog park. i would’ve hit the dog with a pipe myself. how do you bring charges with only armchair quarterback witnesses?
Law Enforcement is out of control in the United States. Oh, and before you nutt-hugging, police officer groupie Yanks start to state that I must have had problems with the police, that is not the case. I find it ironic that several states in your country are now criminalizing the video taping of police officers will public or in your own private residence. Remember Thomas Jefferson warned against a standing army, well all 50 states have a very real militant agency called local law enforcement.
HE”S A FEDERAL AGENT HE CAN DO WHAT EVER HE WANTS & HE DOES .WHAT IF THE OTHER GUY SHOT HIS DOG HE WOULD HAVE WENT TO JAIL NO QUESTIONS ASKED PERIOD.THATS LAND OF THE FREE FOR YOU
I can tell you one thing and you can inform this a–hole of it ; if it was my dog that he shot and I was in the right he would have died soon after the incident and I think he should be exwcuted for it anyway. You carry a weapon you better beware when and where you use it. I hope someone puts him down as he deserves to die in fact the pups life was and is worth more than his.
Sounds like somebody likes to fire guns
Heres hoping karma gets him good. I would feel protective if my dog was being attacked, but I would never have fired a weapon in this public situation. And what kind of cop cant wrestle a husky on his own??? I know dogs bite, but we are powerful animals also and dogs pick up on that and back down, or are overpowered. This is why many cops are bad, they are just weak guys looking for some power. Anyways, I grew up with Sheppards and husky’s and never once felt intimidated by them even when they were fighting. This cop was a weak willed coward who had no other options in his small mind. Whoever gives this cop a fright will probably be shot dead for it. please fire him before he does this to a human.
this guy is a gate guard, not a federal agent. he had no business carrying a gun outside his security job. the only place he has any need to do so is when he is being a gate guard. so many people on this message board are saying he was a federal agent and has a right to carry his gun off duty and protect the public. they are wrong, plain and simple. the public needs protection from him more likely. security guard contracted by the government to guard federal installations. NOT A COP OR AGENT!
Recently, it seems that a lot of police officers think that they have an Open season to shoot dogs. Are we next?
Does anyone remeber Michael Vick? Thats exactly right. He didnt even kill any dogs, other dogs did. He spent a year in jail and rightfully so. My point is that why isnt this guy in jail? I carry a weapon everywhere I go and the first two rounds in my wepon are non-lethal just for siuations like this (that involve humans). I like the police but this guy is a RETARD! Sorry Sara Palin.
Vick went to jail for good reason. If your gunna let your 100lb wolf run around scaring the crap outta people, ya it might get shot. People need to learn to control their pets.
We had a park ranger shoot a dog that approached him recenlty. The officer was on duty, but he didn’t wait for the owner to control the dog and shot without giving much warning. I agree that the dog should have been on leash, but shooting in a park with people all around was probably not the best solution. In either case, it is lucky that no one else was hurt.
umm…not the main issue, but…
what about the crime of having a husky in 90 degree heat?
Dog owners are off the hook…all of ‘em.
Everyone else in the world without a gun would have handled it…without a gun.
Despite many good cops out there, there are DEFINITELY trigger-happy bullies and cowards among them. This guy fits that description exactly.
Ok I’m a Canadian and “Canadian”’s (#684) opinion on Americans aren’t shared by all of us. We respect you guys and we have soldiers over in Afghanistan dying too. We are on the same team here.
Canadian I’m disgusted by your comments. You make us all look bad. Sorry to any Americans on here offended by this idiot. It wasn’t very Canadian of him
The shooting sounds reasonable to me. Control your pets, or someone else might.
Take his badge away before he kills someone.
Things to keep in mind:
1) The dogs were in an off-leash dog park. The claims that the Husky should have been “under control” are without merit. Further, most off-leash parks highly recommend removing leashes immediately upon entering to prevent animals from feeling unable to escape a threat and becoming overly defensive when faced with a dog that is not restrained.
2) This was not a city, county, or state police officer. Federal police officers have jurisdiction limited to specific areas and very few have any outside of the hours they are working. There are substantial odds, especially in Maryland where CCW permits are extremely difficult to obtain, that this person had no legal right to carry the handgun, concealed or otherwise. Aside from the charges and a possible civil suit, there is a high likelihood he will lose his job for this.
If Bear-Bear’s owner/handler was responsible and responded quickly to the situation, it could have all been avoided. The whole time span of this incident the owner was absent/ not helping: Bear-Bear went over to the German Shepard and made contact, the cop called to owner to control his dog, and then he took out his gun. Just because the dog is called Bear-Bear does not mean he is sweet, there are plenty of guys in prison named Angel.
If you ask me if the officers dog had no injuries or narks on him, the officer acted violently long befoe it was warranted. Dog fights are broken up every day by people that do not carry guns and yes some people do get bitten. How many die? This man took the life of a family member may it be a dog cat human being. I would rather be bitten a time or three which I have Because I was raised on a ranch than to kill. And this officer would surely be filing charges that he lost a family member. He should never be allowed to carry a gun again. What would he do his wife got into a fight with say a hooker “no less a woman than his wife”His gun should be revoked and at the verry least he should be put behind a desk pushing papers the rest of his carssr.
that police officer was DUMB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
he overreeacted over course the dog is going to snarl at you if your trying to grab him!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He thinks hes being attaked!!!Carry pepper spray not a hand gun
The cops are in on the type of bullying called mobbing and gangstalking, too. They are awful. In a town two miles across they say it will take them three days to come out. They stopped my friend for taking a walk and accused him of all sorts of stuff he didn’t do.
I’m a dog walker. I’ve broken up several serious fights. This sounds like the nancy boy cop got scared, he’s not too bright and did the only thing his tiny brain could think of. I mean, is he a 90 pound weakling? He should of let his dog off leash and fend for itself. I own a German Shepherd, they are rough at play and bigger than Huskies. If some punk shot my dog in that situation, that would be one of the last things they ever did in this life.
This is exactly why we need guns. Being “off leash” is not a license to run around biting anything a dog wants.
“Was it appropriate to fire a gun in public, putting innocent people, children, and other dogs in the neighborhood at risk? ”
The author of this article doesn’t know anything about guns. Guns can be AIMED. If you aim at a dog and shoot it you aren’t risking anyone else.
Sorry folks…..Get off the cops ass. I am a cop and I have almost had to shoot several dogs. I have no fear of dogs so I am able to use other means of force; an asp baton works wonders. The dog lives and learns a lesson…..asp batons hurt
read the article mike… no one was hurt, the other dog wasn’t even bitten, once. this guy was scared, stupid and has no business bringing a gun to a dog park, or even going to a dog park. the husky was trying to play and he freaked out. Going straight to lethal force in a matter of seconds was unwarranted, period. No way you can justify it.
Ultimately the officer is correct. Animal lovers tend to equate animals to humans when in fact, any assault by an animal is cause for their death.
Just like animal lovers who “Brakes for Animals”, they and Bear Bear are in the wrong. Animals are no excuse to endanger the lives of humans or to cause physical harm, anxiety and fear. The officer merely protected his family, himself and his dog from an animal.
Canadian 684#… I’m sorry, your comments are uncalled for. Americans are our neighbours, our friends and our ally. To disparage them in the way you have is mean sprited and ill willed.
Turn in your maple syrup. I’m sorry, but we’re kicking you out of the club.
the more comments i read, the dumber you people sound. most didn’t comprehend, then remember what they read, or their reading comprehension is so poor their addled brains have to fill in the gaps. this was not an attack. this was not an aggressive dog. dogs either bite or they don’t. there is no ‘attempted biting’ according to the dumb off-duty security guard who took his gun to a dog park. Dogs in this kind of dog park, are supposed to be off leash, ever before entering the main gate. so the security guard couldn’t read either, or he thought he was to special to follow the rules. anyone who has ever been in a dog park like this, will realize a dog moves much faster than it’s humans. If this jerkoff Keith Shephard was so concerned, he shouldn’t of entered the dog park proper until the other owner was nearby. The only thing Bear-Bear was guilty of was bad doggie etiquette, something it’s owner should have taught it.
Iam an officer of the law. Why am I carrying a gun in a park with not only animals. CHILDREN.
Planet Earth’s logic is selfdefeating:
If he is entitled to protect himself and “those he cares about” by using his conceal carry weapon to shoot the dog then:
If he shot my dog i would be justified in double tapping him with a legal automag to “defend myself
and those i love”.
and don’t get me wrong: i am a gun owner and gun rights advocate, but this sort of aggressive
approach is ludicrous and defies simple common sense.
I don’t necessarily agree with what the officer did, but the owner of the Husky I believe is at fault. All of the dog parks that I’ve been too have signs that say leash or verbal control. This owner did not have control of his dog. If I had an alligator and he was on a leash and your dog comes up and starts nipping and bitting or playing rough and I tell you to get your dog and you don’t. Am I at fault if my alligator eats your dog? If you had a gun would you shoot him.
I had my puppy attacked by a pitbull today, I was able to pull the pitbull off of him and my puppy suffered about a one inch laceration on the back of his head. I am licensed to carry concealed and do so(True Texan). I don’t think that this incident warranted me shooting the dog, though it sounds like myself and my dog were in quite a bit more danger then this officer. Unless this officer was just a scared pu$$y, in which case I don’t think that he should have a badge to begin with.
another officer who thinks he’s above the law.
This time it was just a dog, it seems many shootings of people by officers can be avoided. See how often they use the tactic of jumping in front of a fleeing suspect’s car and then they open fire from all directions when the car continues the path it was already on before an officer was in front of it, and no charges ever come of it..murder is what stuff like that is. I know 99% of officers are truly looking out for the public, but they tolerate the 1% who often break the law (beatings while suspects in handcuffs is very widespread) which insures they are included in the us vs. them mindset the public is coming to envision as a result of police interactions with them.
If the officer legally could carry his gun and the huskie was trying to hurt him and his dog I am fine with his action. I have been attacked by a dog, it is not fun and you don’t have a lot of time to dissect the situation. Whatever you have on hand you will commit to getting that dog off you.
…should have emptied da gun in dat bloodclot….
then shot the owner…!!!!!!!
and get a medal.
I find it interesting that all the “pro” Shepard comments are arrogant and boorish. Additionally I am surprised how often people have to turn into “Spellcheck Susans” when they simply can’t respond with any counterpoint. Do any of these Spellcheck Susans know what “netiquite” is?
This is how Law Enforcement bitches roll these days. They need extra guns and backup from the rest of the LEO bitches to get by with lies and setting people up. I notice that the new generation of LEOs are more often wanabees who crave power and excitement. The news is PACKED with examples of how cops screw up and then lie and lie some more. As someone above noted, they have to run in packs and coevr each other’s lies up. If this mental zero shot my dog becaiuse he were a bitch I would have no problem taking it to his fron porch in fron of his family. Remember your gun isn’t necessarily the baddest on the block when you just might be picking a fight with someone who can and will flatten your house with you in it.
I respect police ONLY after they prove themselves, we TRIED the “trust cops up front and at face value” for the last 40 years and look how that’s worked out! Now they’re in it for the overtime and pensions only. Nowhere in society do so few make so much money for doing so little. Soon they will have to slash the bloated “drug war soldiers” and their pensions so a lot of worthless bully taxeaters will have to go actually PRODUCE something for a living other than misery.
Statistically, ego, power and the right to carry a gun are reasons for being cops for 25% of them. You should never be surprised when one uses his weapon, and remember that whenever one confronts you.
Irrational Animal Blog comments are the best. Why should anyone have to give you time as an owner while your disobedient dog attacks another dog. This story is about a poorly educated owner and a disobedient dog taking advantage of society.
Keep crying about law enforcement. But the truth is that the dog attacked another dog. Which can and will lead to criminal and civil suits. Good luck crying to the judge that the cop was trigger happy, even though your mangy dog attacked another dog.
Law Enforcement carry weapons when off-duty because our lives are always in danger. Despite what you may think we don’t sit around and eat donuts all day. We actually respond to emergency calls, and do our best to help the community. Sorry the dog got killed, but I am even more sorry to hear the hatred people have for law enforcement. I am sure the gentleman off-duty didn’t carry the gun to the park to kill a dog. But to protect himself and others, since any law enforcement officer knows you are never off-duty. Since the bad guys don’t take shifts and go home and become good citizens. We must carry the burden of watching our backs all the time. Especially if we live in the same city we patrol.
I feel that the badge changes a man/woman. Some police officers take it a little too far. I think they should put the off duty officer, off duty for a few months without pay (which of course would not happen) and make him go through the gun safety training Again. He should then Buy the family and new husky and pay for its obedience training.
People fail to realize that to most Americans, the Dog is considered one of the family members.
Shame on you Mr. Policeman for not protecting and serving the public but only your family.
Wow, we have 2 wars going on and our economy is in the dumpster and we have a Muslim living in the white house pretending to be a Christian and everyone is going on and on about an agressive dog being put down? Come on people!
So, having a facebook group with lots of members actually means something. Oooooooo, this many thousand people on facebook are upset. too f’in bad. The pussification of america has begun. Wake up people. This guy acted to protect his pet and family, if you can’t control your dog, there will be consequences.
Nearly 100 people died in Iraq the other day for virtually no reason… and your writing articles about dogs… Glad to see journalists have such stellar priorities.
The officer acted appropriately based on the facts as stated in this article.
A fully grown Alaskan sled dog attacked his own dog while he and his wife were in the park.
When he tried to separate the dogs, the sled dog tried to attack the officer.
The custodian of the sled dog appeared unable or unwilling to do anything to stop.
I would’ve done the same thing.
1.) dogs should never be leashed in a dog park it always causes problems
2.) no bites on the german shepard? (gross overreaction by the shooter)
3.) will the shooter be allowed to continue carrying a gun when he obviously reacts emotionally instead of rationally?
4.) dogs are usually more than personal property to their owners you can’t just “replace” the dog with money
5.) This is a perfect example of people and dogs who do not belong at dog parks. and I do not mean Bear Bear. Dog parks are for socialized dogs AND OWNERS. Dog parks are full of rough play and growling dogs that are simply establishing a hierachy and this social element in dogs needs to be recognized as differenrt from a vicious attack.
I had a husky for 13 years. They tend to be very “talkative” but thats their manner. They play using a “playful” talk, but they are harmless. I think the officer took it the wrong way. Poor Bear Bear.
Sorry, but the moment a dog puts their teeth into MY dog, is the moment before said dog stops breathing…
If your dog attacks other animals it SHOULD NEVER BE OFF LEASH in public.
Ed,
That’s great and all but since niether the german shepard or it’s owner had any bite marks, I’d really like to know what your talking about…
Police officers who think they are invincible should be kept on a lease themselves. In this case, I hope the accused serves lengthy time in jail with thousands of dog lovers. I also pray that justice prevails for Bear Bear and his owners.
Heather #32, you are probably a trigger happy cop yourself.
FU!
If the shooter in this case is indeed a PO (or a private citizen licensed to carry), then I see no issue about the carrying of a weapon. That has no bearing on the case. Generally speaking, the use of such force is justified when/if the victim or those immediately around them (ie family) feel they are threatened with death or severe injury. A husky bearing its teeth and snarling may have been enough to fit that definition. None of us were there!! Should a person have to wait until they’re actually bitten BEFORE taking action. No! Enough said. Was this a smart way to handle the situation – probably not, but unless this involves a felon with a gun, lets move on. We all need to learn something here – control your dog of face the consequences.
Another scumbag COP doing whatever they want. Let me or someone else pull a gun out and shoot an animal. JAIL baby. It was a no leash park cmon, what an excuse should be going to jail. All you people that think this COP is right have your brains examined HE WENT TO A NO LEASH DOG PARK so what do you think you will find at that park. Oh yea a cop with an itch finger. SCUMBAG hope you go to jail and lose your cop license scumbag. SHOOTING a dog feel good now idiot. Thius type of cop is the same persecuter of innocent people. Tired of all you police protectors as if they cant do any wrong they are human and they have to hold back on their judegement. He felt threatened then dont come to park IDIOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bottom line is the federal officer is a total unstable loser. “He feared for his, wife’s and dog’s life” what a crock. He obviously knows nothing about dogs rough housing nor fighting. Too bad he did’t shoot himself in the foot and very lucky no one else was shot either. Freakin loser!!
I’m just thankful my mentally challengend wheellchaor bound elderly gteatgrandmother wasn’t with me there at that dog park that day..he may have shot and killed her for offensive drooling or having a soiled Depends ..but seriously, can you imagine the horror to others who witnessed this overly aggressive behavior the one person in entire park there sworn to serve AND protect others…instead he self-serving and trigger happy Guy takes his weapon out and destroyed a loving playful dog …scary thought that this guy WILL walk away unscathed ..perhaps a limp-wristed hand slap and few day PAID administration leave. Protect and serve??? NO thanks …my pet rattle snake has more brains and compassion than the shooter. He needs serious anger management training AND his weapons be taken away ..don’t even allow him use of a dog leash …who knows what he’ll do with it! Not even girl Scouts safe knocking on his front door mid-day…shoot!-bang…who goes there? …those uniforms got him paranoid! Someone take note …this ain’t the last of him ..give him time and he’ll step it up few notches …even granny ain’t safe with loose Canon like him running loose …good thing wasn’t my dog..he’d be taking a long dirt nap about now!!
This guy wont get away with this. He’ll be found guilty and be suspended without pay but wont loose his job. I think he should loose his job over this. Who does that? Go to a unleashed dog park and shoot another dog because he ran over to your dog? Sounds like someone wanted a reason to use their gun since all he probably does is eat donuts and drink coffee.
this is on the owner. control your dog or someone else has to. its an animal which acts unpredictably. i would have done the same
If this cop’s only recourse was to shoot something, good thing a kid hadn’t touched his dog.
Shoot first. Ask questions later? Loose cannon?
Sounds like someone needs to retire – now.
I agree to a certain extent with never reelect in that behavior of dogs when on or off a leash is very different then if all are either on or off leashes. They are pack animals not humans they have instincts as such. But i still enjoy talking to humans of like minds as I rather then a dog that does not talk. Other than barking and whining and biting.
The cop is just another example of the mentality of the trigger happy paranoid dip$hit morons that patrol our streets looking for someone to shoot, or in this case something. Cops are trained to shoot when they deem it necessary to the situation. However obviously not every human that is allowed to be a cop has the brain capacity to determine the right situation when to shoot or not to shoot.
This cop is a complete moron and doesn’t need to have a gun. He is a perfect candidate for a future excessive force murder of an unarmed suspect. Since everyone is speculating and doesn’t know the facts ill give you an example from my own experience and you can see how this cop over reacted.
I’m walking my doberman on a leash when 2 chow chows from the neighborhood run up and attack her. I yelled and tried to get them off of her and this wasn’t rough play. It took about 5 seconds from when they attacked her before realized how to stop this nonsense. I grabbed one chow by the tail and behind the head on a stuff of fur and tossed it so far and high that when it landed it felt the pain of the fall and didn’t want anymore. The next dog same thing only this time I threw it over a 4 foot fence.
That was the end of that. Were human beings we have brains we think we evolved to this point because we have these brains. Most cops let their brainwashed-training and guns do their thinking for them. I hope the psych evaluation of this cop finds him to be too incompetent to remain a police officer so he can go to guarding a shopping mall for Securitas.
funny how the author gives the number (12,000)of bleeding hearts who are ready to jump on the officer for protecting his own dog and only say “many” people are supporting him. Im a dog owner and would do the same to protect her.
Do you people even read the whole article before running your mouths off? THERE WERE NO INJURIES TO THE OFFICER OR HIS WIFE OR HIS DOG. Furthermore, the dog was not with the owner, it was with the owner’s brother, hence the term guardian. geez people!
With that all off my chest, let me say: I have the utmost respect for our law enforcement officers in general, but let’s face it, they are not all as upstanding and honest as they should be. They are all human last time I checked, and humans sometimes tend to overreact and lose their tempers from time to time. Being an officer of the law does not turn off your basic emotions and personality. If one is the type that leans toward having a bad temper, becoming an officer won’t magically erase that aspect of one’s personality.
I’ve personally broken up a very violent dog fight before with no weapons of any kind, (unless you would consider my kicking foot a weapon). I would think the officer might have used a little more discretion in this case. Just because a dog has it’s mouth open, doesn’t mean it is attacking you or trying to kill you. By all means people everywhere have the right to defend themselves against violence whether from another human or an animal. However, the force used should be determined by each individual situation. You don’t just pull out a gun and fire it simply because you happen to have one on your person. What if a little child had come up and kicked him in the shin? Would he have been justified shooting this violent child? Excessive force in at the least unimpressive and at most, a danger to society in itself. You don’t get to kill other people’s animals just because you carry a badge. When not concerned with matters of law, cops or any other type of officer are just like the rest of us and subject to the laws which they uphold.
This shooting was WRONG and that’s the end of the story.
first and foremost i want to say “all this over a dog being shot by and officer” How many of you have stood up for the rights of children, who suffer in silence because people are more interested in animals than little people. I don’t hate animals I’ve had several over the years, but when i hear people going on and on about a dog or cat, whatever it is, and I’m reading an article about another helpless child being abused, I get pretty ticked off. PETA how about speaking out about all God’s creatures not just dogs and cats.
Come on leolady…
Just because we are talking about a dog at the moment doesn’t mean we don’t care about the rights of abused children. Likewise, just because there are abused children, doesn’t mean that’s what we have to talk about at all times. This particular article is about a dog, and we all have our opinions, which is why we are here. Besides, its not just about a dog, it’s about an officer possibly abusing his authority and right to bear arms. THAT, my dear, should worry us all.
If you don’t like this article or the comments made regarding it, maybe you should go to another site that reflects your interests and leave the comments here to the people that actually have valid opinions concerning the situation.
I think this Jenna chick who started this blog should mind her own business.. this will be settled between the people involved. Geez.. look at how the people have gotten fired up over something that has nothing to do with them… tooo many busybodies.
How could someone like that be a police officer. He seems unstable. How mentaly stable is this man? Really, a dog he had to shoot and kill Bear Bear…
My heart goes out to Bear Bear’s family. That poor animal must have been in so much pain.
I hope he never returns to the dog park so that he can’t harm another animal!
I have been viciously attacked by 50-60 lb bulldog. The dog was roaming free in an area with a leash law. The owners did not make any attempt to stop the attack. I fully understand the necessity for defending yourself and your loved ones. My sympathy is for the off duty officer. May you animal rights people be placed in that situation so we can determine how deep your convictions are.
I wasn’t there, I didn’t see a video of the event so I can’t say who is at fault. I don’t know that I would make it a standard that one has to suffer actual injury prior to defending themselves. That’s not a good standard. If there was a bite, then how bad does it have to be? 20 stitches, 10? What’s good enough? How much damage would have to be done to his dog to justify it? I don’t think that it can be evaluated that way. It likely is that the officer had poor knowledge of dog behavior. Dog fights (heck, even rough dog play) can be scary.
I think it’s sad that Bear-Bear was killed – must have been horrific for the witnesses.
My knowledge of off-duty officers is that most would rather not be involved in such a thing – if not just because of the amount of paperwork involved. I won’t state a knee jerk judgment on this case, I don’t think any of us know enough to do so.
This is just sad.
The officer completely over-reacted.
The same person who is suppose to protect “us” from day to day is scared of a hyper husky. Oh boy.
My sympathies to Bear-bear and his family.
Huskys are a crap breed and very aggressive. WHere I come from if a dog can’t behave it needs to be shot. Matter of fact….kill all pit bulls
I witnessed a cop shooting a dog that got out of his owners yard. It was a 6 month old Great Dane. Th cop called to the dog, the dog ran to him and jumped on him (like puppies do) and he took out his gun and shot it because it “attacked” him. When my 85 yo mother complained he told her to “shut up and get back in her house” We rightfully expect officers to maintain control of themselves in heated situations. If they can’t then they shouldn’t be officers.
There is the old saying “To a man with a hammer, everything looks like a nail.” It is likely that the police officer used excessive force in shooting and killing the Husky in a public dog park. As pointed out in comment #2, the officer did not use good judgement by keeping his GSD (German Shepherd Dog) on a leash in an *off-leash* dog park. By doing so, the officer effectively hand-cuffed his own dog, and denied his GSD the opportunity to respond with the sniff, fight or flight options that any dog would do. As the owner of a female GSD, I can’t help but think that Asia was more than capable of taking care of herself (himself?) if given free reign.
Regarding the officer’s decision to shoot, the lack of any documented wounds to the officer or his dog make one go “Hmmm” and wonder if perhaps he was a bit too quick to resort to lethal force. We would all think differently, of course, if Bear-Bear had been mauling a small child before he was shot, but the situation that reportedly took place seems very much like it could have been resolved differently. A bad and sad deal for all.
If a dog assaults you or your pet, action can be taken to prevent any harm to you and your pet. Therefore, police officer’s action is not so easily to be considered crossing the line. He may have had very just cause. I wouldn’t stand by while my dog got attacked. Huskies can be very overwhelming and overly aggressive. The husky owner should have known that going to the park.
Just another poorly-trained, incompetent government employee feeding at the public trough…it never seems to end
Having owned a few huskies and knowing how they can play I can see how the officer might have been scared. I don’t think its a good thing that he shot that dog, but I can see how he might have panicked. Huskies like to dominate other dogs and play rough. I’m not saying that Bear Bear was doing that but I know the type of irresponsible dog owner who brings there dog to the park and is constantly getting in fights with other dogs.
Here is one such incident: http://pysih.com/2010/05/21/robert-kahn/
I feel bad for both parties. But I do think that the officer should keep his job.
Was the GSD a K-9 officer, also off-duty, or was he just a pet? Either way, the GSD should have been removed from the park–he was still leashed.
If the GSD was a K-9 officer, then I can’t think of any reason for him to even be at a dog park–these dogs are public property and although they generally live with their handlers, they are not pets and cannot be expected to behave or interact with other humans or dogs as pets. The off-duty cop should be reassigned if he was that careless.
The flip side is that “Bear-Bear” should have been under voice control. He obviously wasn’t. Doesn’t justify what happened, but the owners of the dead dog need to at least understand that they failed their own dog by a) not noticing him heading toward a leashed dog and b) not having “Bear-Bear” under voice control.
Such a waste all around.
UKCat – Um… It was a fenced in DOG PARK. You NEVER, ever, leave a leash on a dog in a fenced in park. If you don’t know the rules, don’t go to the park.
I don’t bring my dog to the park because the owners act worse than the pets. Also, my dog has gotten sick after being in the park several times, so we decided it just wasn’t safe.
Just please remember – there are rules at the park – no bringing in treats, no leashes, no dogs in heat, no dogs under 4 months of age etc. Pick up your dogs waste – and NO GUNS at the park.
We can debate back and forth about this crap all day but since we weren’t there, and the media doesn’t quite tell the truth, we will never know exactly what happened. However, there is a way to separate dogs without using force or killing them. Not that I agree with him shooting Bear-Bear (because I don’t) but he didn’t have to shoot to kill. He could have just shot to maim.
I agree with Joe W. If you go to the park, leave your dog off the leash. Or be smart, and don’t go to the park at all – take your dog on a walk and socialize him at a dog day care center.
if it’s your animal, it’s your responsibility to make sure it’s under control. if you don’t, someone else will and you may not like how they do it. if you disagree with this, you probably like to blame others for problems you bring on yourself. don’t assume that anyone else likes your animal, pretend instead that you are the only one that does.
The Federal agent is a cold-hearted LYING ASS who knew that he would get away with killing the dog.
Testifying that he’s afraid of a dog, how in the world does he face armed criminals?
I hate authorities who abuse their authority.
I’m sorry the article didn’t say that the husky’s owner jumped on him and beat the crap out of him… thoroughly.
Regarding the ongoing investigation.
Anyone familiar with the authorities investigating themselves knows that 99% of the time it’s nothing more than empty verbiage to put up a front of “responsibility” when we know that in reality, law enforcement officers have an “us against them” mentality and truth is just as rare with them as it is with the rest of the populace.
This country has gone down hill. We were once the most respected and envied nation in the world.
Our decline is primarily due to the fact that we have become a police nation, imprisoning a large part of our population without good reason. We are only behind North Korea and China in incarcerations of our own people.
Now,it would seem all those, or at least the majority of those carrying a badge feel they are above the law.
One of the first things i was taught while attending the police academy was the “code”. That meant, you see an officer commit a crime, cover for them.
Make up a story, change the details of the incident, intimidate witnesses if necessary. I’m thoroughly disgusted by this pathetic human being. I have read a few comments on here, and i agree with several people in regards to the husky breed, they are the most gentle animals, yet like to play rough. even going so far as biting each others paws, but its IS how they play. It was completely unnecessary for that ass clown to shoot Bear. I assure you there will be a cover up, there always is.
For those off you justifying this shooting as protecting self and pet get a clue. Those dog parks are for exercising animals that either live in apartments or have no backyard. You know the rules before entering they are posted. Lets put a spin on this situation. It wasn’t a dog instead it was a child and it wasn’t a dog park it was a playground. Little boy1 was there playing and Mr Officer brought his child to play. Little boy1 walks towards Mr Officer with a bucket and pail and raises the bucket to hit
Mr Officers child. Mr Officer yells at the child to put down the bucket. He feels threatened pulls out his gun and shoots the child. Same situation different participants. Is this okay? I hope that this gentleman never has children!
It’s a dog…get over it. I’ve seen parents who couldn’t control their spastic kids, and I’m sure this owner of “Bear-Bear” is the same. Anything named “Bear-Bear” is obviously a big dog and Huskies can be aggressive. Quit blaming the cop who shot an out of control animal. Blame the POS citizen who allowed their pet to go nuts…I bet my check the cop gets off the BS misdemeanor charge, which was only pushed through by some liberal sack at the prosecutor’s office.
I hope somebody “caps” the cop, his wife and his dog.
Randy #801,
So your comparing a snarling husky with the bite strength to break your bones or crush your jugular to a 5 year old with a plastic shovel? Please excuse me if I don’t find your arguement logical on any level.
GoldenK9Momma says #796,
You say “the officer didn’t have to shoot to kill he could have shot to mame”… So shooting the dog through the hip is considered shooting to kill??? Also the guy called 911 right away and told them he shot the dog in the hip and really needed to get vet attention to help it. The 911 recording doesn’t make him sound like the heartless nut some people are making him out to be.
Let’s remember the facts people. 1-The incident happened in an OFF LEASH dog park. 2-The GSD’s owners were at fault from the very beginning by not letting their dog off the leash. 3-Dogs on a leash feel inferior to lose dogs and may become violent. 4- Bear-Bear would frequently go to that park and no other incident like this has been at least reported. 5- Neither dog had any bite marks as per animal control. Those are the facts!
This officer should be convicted with much harsher crimes and get his badge taken away. I’ve read that some of you compare a husky coming after your 3 year old son. Why would you be with your 3 year old son at an off leash dog park? I also heard to before we judge him take the 26 week training. I was in the military for 8 years. I’ve had extensive fire arm training and I would ever bring my weapon into a dog park. Would he shoot a 4 year old toddler because he hit his 3 year old or hit his GSD? The officer is lucky Bear- Bear was not my dog!!!
Frank #805,
I’m not saying the guy should have discharged his weapon or not but how are some of you comparing a full grown Husky to two 4 year old children fighting. Some of these analogies are hillarious.
I swear the next analogy I’m going to read is what would the officer have done if “I owned a chicken and he owned a goat”, and then you’re going to puff your chests out like you made some great point.
Sounds to me like the officer didn’t handle the situation like a man. nope. he handled it like a cop.
And of course he gets away with what, a misdemeanor? if this situation had been reversed the other guy would still be sitting in the cooler.
those who enforce the law are, as usual, above it.
If some pig is stupid enough to pull a weapon on one of my pets they’d better make sure the next target is me.
I don’t have much sympathy for Bear Bear. It’s not as if he sauntered up with a “hey-who-are-you-Guy” shoulder-to-shoulder shove: he immediately used fullblown dog-attack equipment (teeth) against a tethered dog. Now he’s dead. A commensurate response to a sociopathic, gung-ho maniac dog engaging in lethal, antisocial behavior.
Why is anyone surprised. All Americans have become so stupidly complacent of the Police State we now live in. As long as we Americans have our credit cards, pretty lil houses, 2 relatively new cars and satellite tv, we wouldnt care if the cops stormed our neighbors home and killed off the entire family. No one seemed to care about the millions of Iraqi’s that were murdered so why in the hell does a damn dog get so much sympathy. Dont get me wrong I have an 18yo retriever that I love almost as much as my 2 kids. But damn! Shouldnt we all be more outraged and afraid of the completely unecessary power that the police have today? We used to call this the land of the free. HA! Lets build more and better schools than prisons and animal kill shelters. BTW did anyone check to see if the cop planted a weapon on or in Bear.
Aside from the topic, this thread illustrates the basic differences between those of us without dogs, and those with. Some owners get it, they train their dogs and have control over them. Sadly, most dog owners don’t and are oblivious to the harm their pet can do, to the point of being psychotically-delusional. That’s why every story about folks who own a dog that mauls or kills a kid always have the inevitable line from the owner saying he/she never saw it coming (from lack of a brain). If it can hurt someone, and you can’t control it, you shouldn’t be allowed to have it in the first place. Period.
I think the federal agent should have let bear bear bite him first before he shot him, then, he would at least be justified.
This was an off leash, fenced in park, to all of you saying things like “keep your dog on it’s leash” and “thats why there are leash laws”, these statements do not apply. Most people would have handled this without a gun, and successfully. The whole point of an off leash park is to provide an area for people with no fenced in yard to let their dog’s run freely and get the excersize and social interaction they need.
It was wrong to shoot the animal, no matter how you look at it, it was wrong. The “officer” acted on impulse with a dangerous weapon, which he should have been trained to not do. There are many non lethal options out there he could have chosen to bring with him to the park if he didn’t want to “get his hands dirty” so to speak. Pepper spray — like our Mail Carriers use — would have been a much better choice. Even if the reasoning for carrying the firearm was for personal protection on the way to and from the park from humans, pepper spray would have been a viable choice there as well.
That aside, blind faith in our Police force is very un-wise. Just because somebody is able to recognize the fact that our Police Officers (not all of them) are some of the most corrupt in the world, and the position of authority typically attracts sociopaths, does not mean they “must have had some negative confrontations with the Police before” or that they are “Delinquints who hate the Police for ’sinister’ reasons”. Blind faith in those in authority guarantees abuse of authority with no fear of repercussions.
That being said, while I think the “officer” may believe he acted valiantly, I am sure he is questioning his actions right about now. And officer or not, if someone shot my dog (or my brothers dog while it was in my care) for playing or otherwise, I would seriously question the mental faculties of said shooter. Unless of course the animal was actually attacking a child.
It is very sad that a family had to lose their pet because of this, and I don’t think that anybody but the owner should have their dogs at a leashless park, but still believe this was an impulsory, overreaction on the “officers” part and he should be charged for the crimes he commited. If anything an example should be made out of him, his training should have led him to do the exact opposite of everything he did during that situation.
To “Not A Dog Owner”:
you say “That’s why every story about folks who own a dog that mauls or kills a kid always have the inevitable line from the owner saying he/she never saw it coming (from lack of a brain). If it can hurt someone, and you can’t control it, you shouldn’t be allowed to have it in the first place. Period.”
fine, children can hurt people, you can hurt people, I can hurt people, no single person can “control” any of us short of ending our lives, or restraining us permanently. The key is proper education on how to handle your dog and other peoples dogs. This incident happened in a fenced in, public, leashless DOG park. I am sure there were warning signs plastered all over the fence and gate. If you are going to bring your dog into a dog park you had better be able to handle dogs. This sort of behavior is expected of dogs when interacting with each other. Perhaps all of the trigger happy folks should just stay out of the dog parks? Guns have no place in parks.
Dogs may have teeth, and power, but Typically humans have a much better natural arsenal at hand. Such as a distinct weight advantage over most breeds, Opposable Thumbs, a brain capable of higher functions, and “more” power.
I seriously hope that those of you defending the officer with livid ferocity do not carry guns with you everywhere you go.
I wish that the only people allowed to even touch guns should be Military. Not police, nor private owners. And Ideally, not even Military, but thats completely unrealistic. I would just settle for VERY harsh penalties on the unlawful use of firearms, and possibly more intensive gun safety courses.
Fortunately my Great Dane hates guns, and will attack a gun wielding prick without a second thought. Needless to say, even though she is the sweetest dog in the world with me and my Wife, and our friends, she doesn’t get taken to public parks and the like. If anyone pulled a gun on my dog they would have to worry about me a hell of a lot more than my beautiful dane.
To all you dog lovers the bottom line is you need to control your dog and not act as though your dog is the best thing on this earth.I am sorry Bear-Bear got shot but he should have been on a darm leash. Also to you Sandi, I dont know about you but with all these crazy people out there, you cant limit where people carry a gun.. i carry mine to church just in case the pastor start trippin in my Jehovah Witness State…..its said but get over it, get rid of your dog and assit a Transient instead..Help a somebody get back on their feet.. Fof Christ Sake, stop nailing this Officer to the cross. What happen to Asia Right?
It never surprises my how quickly ppl can jump to comclusions without being there and having no idea what actually happened. My dog attacked/or played rough with a smaller dog but luckily I cared enough to train him to stop when ordered to. I wish Bear hadn’t been shot but the cop had every right to protect himself and his family
My sympathy for all concerned. My father (who’s now retired) was a police officer, and i was led to believe that , using their guns should be the very last resort. In the many years my father ” Served and Protected” Not once did he ever need to draw his gun and fire it.
I do think that this officer that shot bear-bear, was way out of line in his actions. He should be making public apology’s (at least) . I hope he feels like sh*t for taking a life, and I pray “Karma” will settle this sooner than later!
The people on here who immediately read this and think that the officer was completely out of line and needs repercussions such as being fired, jailed, etc…you’re just showing the world your ignorance and over-emotional speculation. This is a very complex and highly sensitive situation that has gray areas on both sides. Essentially the article had it right and it really comes down to what the prosecution said. They are looking in to both whether he could legally carry a gun then, and also, could he discharge it at that time. Thats where the legalese comes in and we can gain a better understanding of whether or not how he reacted is how the next person in his exact situation can, and should, respond. Lets just calm some cop haters down right now (and believe me I hate cops more than most ppl on here, and do love dogs, but I hate emotional speculation feigned as conviction more). So his dog was on a leash at a dogpark…ooooo dog books mention how this can be harmful for blah blah blah…guess what, maybe his dog notoriously runs up to ppl and bothers them, and doesnt listen and the owner hence feels more comfortable with him on a leash…maybe if the leash was the leading issue here, then the gov will take measures to ensure each dog park is either all leash or no leash. right now, that does not exist. should the cop have went further away, and away from all the other dogs, because he keeps his dog on a leash? absolutely not. city property after all is for humans to enjoy, not dogs. which brings me to my next frustrating topic. ppl who compare his reaction of shooting the animal instead of pulling it away to shooting a child when they are fighting…god ur stupid if u make that comparison. so sad if u cant see the difference of shooting an animal for protective/safety reasons and shooting a human out of completely different form of fear. Facts are as such: the dog ran up to cops dog and started acting aggressively, whether it was playing or not is indiscernible as research shows that they don’t play together until after performing other nonviolent rituals first. He told the owner to get it off after feeling fear for his family and dog’s safety (because as a cop I am sure he has heard the horror stories u don’t hear about that happen everyday when dogs who have “never bit before” suddenly do it, and with great damages). No person should be put in that situation. Period. The owner should have ran over and tackled his dog, or screamed at it, but as far as the article says, there was no response. So what was the cop to do? history shows us that immediate action and decision-making during intense situations is overall more beneficial than waiting and doing nothing at all as u take the time to really consider all options while ignoring the potential imminent consequences of the current said danger…in this case, a dog makes gestures and actions that you perceive as attacking you, and u see no one coming to fix it, and u have a gun, u f-ing shoot the dog u idiot. It’s a horrible situation and unfortunate, but such tragedy comes with pets. Maybe u havnt heard but dog biting is a huge issue and many ppl each year are injured or die from dog maulings (and not to mention dog owners get sued). Why take the risk of my or my family’s safety, over ur pets? Especially when your pet is the one creating this dangerous situation! Most ppl wouldn’t have a gun on them during this situation, because well, your with your dog at the dog park playing, why bring a pistol? And so what would usually happen in this situation is the scared owner of the dog being attacked would probably kick, punch or essentially beat the sh*t out of the other dog until it runs away. Im assuming the cop, or fed, is allowed to carry his gun with him when he is off-duty. If he is, then he is not in the wrong, and he was just doing what he had to do to protect himself and his wife, and well within his rights. OR WAS HE? That’s where what the prosecution said comes into play. Its not about morals here, clearly its simply an unfortunate situation where one party felt terrified and acted accordingly, and one party was too busy not paying attention to their property (dog) during this moment, and desperate measures were taken to bring his feeling of safety and well-being back to homeostasis. The question is simply whether or not he was allowed to have his gun, and whether discharging it was illegal. He shouldn’t lose his job over this. He shouldn’t go to jail for this. In reality, the cop could probably sue the other owner for emotional damages and the like, even without the physical evidence that so clearly doesn’t exist. Dog owner is to blame for dogs death, if he was there grabbing his dog, or anywhere near it really, im sure the cop wouldn’t be pointing the gun at it/him. He wasn’t there tho. The cop was left with two choices only, fight or flight, and he chose to fight for his safety first, not putting the other dogs life ahead of his own pet’s or family’s. maybe the cop should/will be punished for using the gun at a time when he wasn’t supposed to, if the law clearly states for him not too, but considering what ive read and seen, im pretty sure off duty cops (especially feds) can have their guns. And obvipously if they can have them, then they can use them during dangerous situations as a last resort. Don’t get me wrong by the way, many police do go on power trips and are horrible at their jobs, but c’mon…be real for a second….you really think he wanted to, or felt good, about shooting that other dog, especially considering hes a dog owner himself. HELL NO, he probably felt so sh**ty about it afterward, and not to mention terrified of severe repercussions that could arise from using a gun as a deadly force. He was forced/pushed into the situation by external circumstances, and unfortunately for the dog and his or her owner, the person watching the dog messed up bigtime. For both parties.
LAST NOTE: I just also wanna give some last minute hate to the people that believe the cop should have “known” that the dogs were just playing and left them alone to work it out. jesus christ your so stupid if your one of those people. NEVER NEVER NEVER should someone be expected to withstand growling and biting at such a close distance to themselves if they dont want it — he asked for it to stop and the owner made no actions! GUESS WHAT PEOPLE, DOGS DO BITE, EVEN YOUR LITTLE FLUFFY OR ROXY, AND THEY DO KILL! so lesson here is watch over your dog if you wanna avoid this happening. if your dog runs to another dog or person, then u need to be right there by his side in case u need to take control. thats exactly what the cop did there. he took control of an out of control situation — a responsibilty forced upon him by the other owner when he did not take control. the end
My 1 and an half year old Chocolate Lab was killed by a police officer.
I was visiting a relative and decided to take my lab out for a walk. Upon opening the back door…I was greeted by 4 cops holding guns …when they opened the door my lab ran out ready to play with people. The officers put a gun to my head and ordered me to the ground…before I knew it I heard to gun shots…they had shot and killed my dog.
Long story short I was devastated. By the way it turn out they …the police were at the wrong residence.
They said they shot my dog “just in case she might have been vicious”
If you’re not a dog lover it may be difficult to understand the attachment to an animal. I won’t debate that. To each his own.
I am a dog lover that will never change. I have a little site on dogs and a blog.
Please people first read the news and then points the blame. I love dogs I have a big 85 pound dog and when I walk the dog I always bring a stick with me no only to protect my dog but others people dog to.
I know that I am responsible for my dog if my go to attack another dog I will do my best to control it, if the owner of the dog ask me to please take my dog away from his dog I will do it.
It for some reason ( and all owner of dog know that wear (sh$$$#@#t ) happens and my dog attack another dog I will the the first to used the stick on my dog to protect the other dog because is my responsibility to ket my under control.
I know that some of you will said this is a off leash park ok that mean that if you go to a club and some guy ask your sister or your girlfriends to dance and she dont wanted he could harass her because is a club and that is a place to dance…………. you will hit the guy and a lot of you will kill the guy for what I read in all the comments!!!!
It was only a dog.
its funny how people ‘read’ this article, and then make things up halfway through it. to the gentleman that said, ‘the dog should have been on a darn leash’…it was a dog park, where dogs are not to be leashed, but let to run in a fenced in area. secondly….it wasnt the dogs owner that had bear-bear at the park, it was his brother, he should have been able to control the dog, and if he coudn’t, he shouldn’t have been there. thirdly, why was asia still on a leash in the dog park? i am both a dog lover and pistol owner with a concealed carry permit. i will not shoot a dog that is being aggressive towards my dog, i would sooner get in the middle of it myself and get myself injured….atleast at that point 2 lives will be fine. i have also owned pitbulls, and never had a problem with them being agressive to people or other dogs, and i have been around huskies and german shepards all my life, never had a problem where the resolution required one of the dogs to be shot.
neither the PO nor his dog or wife required any kind of medical/vet attention, thats leads me to believe that the level of aggression from brear bear was null and that the officer was not in any kind of danger. most dogs when they are playing will turn and snap at somethign trying to intervene, just like if 2 people were fighting and a person tried to break it up, that person will get attacked until people calm down and realize whats going on.
I feel the officer was justified. NOBODY is 100% sure that other man’s mutt wouldn’t try to bite the officer or his wife next. I’ve been to enough dog parks and see lazy, ignorant dog owners let their dog run amuck in the park – my dog was involved in a fight and thank god was not hurt – too bad the aggressive dog owner didn’t try to stop it and get bit, maybe he’d be more vigilant next time… I’d hate to see how responsible they are with their own children…
This Officer needs to be fired for his actions and never allowed to be a Police Officer again. He has demonstrated a clear lack of judgement skills vital for protecting the public. Today a shot dog, tomorrow an innocent civilian killed.
You people have lost your minds! I am a dog owner and a cop. I had to shoot and kill my own dog because it attacked my neighbors 4 year old son. After it was all said and done, my dog suffered from a brain tumor that made him go mad. NO PET IS WORTH THE LIFE OF A HUMAN BEING! Get over it!!!!!
If you killed my dog and were not bleeding from open wounds that my dog inflicted, I WOULD KILL YOU IN SELF DEFENSE IMMEDIATELY. THAT IS THE LAW. SOME GUY PULLED A GUN IN A PARK AND STARTED SHOOTING…PERIOD. KILL HIM BEFORE HE SHOOTS MY KID!!!
I own a german shepherd and I would protect her if another dog did indeed try to hurt her. But why not just shoot in the air to scare the dog, he did not have to kill the dog or even hurt the dog for that matter. My heart goes out to the family of Bear-bear. I am sorry for your loss.
You take your dog to an OFF-LEASH dog park, and another dog starts rough-housing with your dog and act defensive/aggressive toward you (a stranger) when you try to stop him. Sounds like EVERY DAY at OFF-LEASH dog parks. I only wish that I had been the dogs owner and was there with a gun myself. If a guy shot my dog, I would shoot him and claim self-defense. “The guy was crazy enough to SHOOT A DOG, I thought he was going to turn and shoot me next.” Keith Shephard, what an a-hole. Animal Cruelty and Discharging a Firearm near a residence. Why hasn’t an ANIMAL MURDER charge been created? This guy won’t serve any time and he committed COLD BLOODED MURDER. Shephard won’t do any time behind bars because he murderd an animal and not a human. If I had been there without a gun, I would have at least beat the snot out of Keith Shephard, and left him a bloody pulp. He needs to be banned from ever owning an animal or visiting animal parks for life. Federal Officer A-hole Keith Shephard, I hope horrible things happen to him.
To all you bleeding heart liberal dog owners who think the cop was in the wrong!You need to get a better focus on reality.First,even in a non leash park you must have control of your dog.Second what if this dog attacked a child?And you better get used to people carrying legally conceled handguns for protection they will use them.And to the person who called the other person a girly girl,your just a sissy who hides behind a keyboard!!
It is sounds like yet another cop taking advantage of his authority. This time it just happened to be a dog instead of a person. Shooting is a last resort. Does not sound like he waited till the last resort to shoot. My condolences to the family of Bear Bear.
It’s really easy for you people who weren’t there to judge and come to a snap decision about everything that happened, isn’t it? You’re all as bad as Obama saying the cop ’stupidly’ arrested the black professor when he knew none of the facts. Pathetic.
Without seeing more evidence I cannot point a finger at who was right and who was wrong, but some people have never been attacked by a dog before. I hope the courts make a just ruling based on the facts and evidence rather than the perception of emotion.
Plain & simple~he should not have been carrying a gun in a DOG PARK. This was a fenced in park for dogs unleashed. He shot the god in the rear end-how in any way, shape or form, is the dog a threat walking away from you! He has a German Shepard???? They are far more a threat than any Husky is-ask any insurance company-most will not cover you in you have on of the high risk dogs. The man (and I use that term loosely) should not be an officer of any kind and should be jailed.
This is the problem in this country, everyone acts like a bitch… If a dog attacked your child, you would even think about shooting it in a crowd of children. This officer would be a hero. Attack my dog/cat/snake/whatever, I’ll shoot you dead and not feel the least bit bad about it. Good job Keith Shepard! And thanks for being a cop.
You bleeding heart hypocrites make me sick. If I loved my dog (as you people claim you love your dogs) and saw it as part of my family I would do whatever I felt I had to do to protect it, and you would stand hear and tell me you wouldn’t ??
In many areas killing a police dog is a felony! Maybe a police officers reaction to an attack on his dog is an attack to one of his own, police dog or otherwise.
You condemn the officer for running around with a loaded gun (like he was some average Joe on the street) but you sure wouldn’t complain if it was your a*s getting chewed up would you? Most of you don’t know what your talking about. You’re all like a lynch mob. Big talkers. Why don’t you all worry about cleaning up after your own dogs for a change (when you think no one is looking) and then teach your dog not to bite other dogs.
Well, there is a limit to how much you can protect yourself given a threat. For example:
It would be akin to someone blowing a stop sign, hitting your car, you feel “threatened” by that persons action, and decide to pull out your gun and shoot.
The response must be appropriate for the action and the threat. It’s a really poor judgement call.
To be fair, police officers represent the bottom 10% of the population in terms of quality genetic code, so maybe he just couldn’t help it.
was there any history of Bear-Bear exibiting agressive behavier? how about the off duty officer? the article doesn’t say anything about that.
also, of the 70 posts i read, i hadn’t read what i always heard about the handling of guns. never NEVER aim a gun unless you are going to shoot. and only then if all else fails, and you and/or someone else is in immediate deadly danger.
Some years ago There were packs of dogs roaming in the area where I live which were put out by their owners when they went to work. The pack in my area was hunting my livestock I live in an unincorporated rural area within three miles of a metropolitan area, and owners are supposed to “control their animals” at all times. I asked the police how to deal with this, and they told me that because my animals or family were being attacked I could use lethal force to prevent the attack. They advised me to use a shotgun rather than a pistol or rifle, both to maximize safety by reducing the range of the pellets in the brush and to stay legal. When the dogs came back I shot one fatally and caused shot wounds on two others. I have no remorse over this. In the several years since there have been maybe half a dozen incidents of dogs killing elderly people and children, and several dozen attacks which “only” resulted in serious injury. Most people agree that the main fault is with the owners who fail or refuse to control their animals, but an animal which is vicious is like a car with bad brakes or stairs with a loose step. The item which poses a threat must be removed, and since the police don’t consider dog hunting to be their job and animal control departments are budget bound and will only ask you to trap and restrain the problem animal until they can pick it up, putting yourself at risk in the process, the only legal way is to get a shotgun and defend yourself, your family and your livestock as required.
(836) sick of hypocrite dog owners says:
“You condemn the officer for running around with a loaded gun (like he was some average Joe on the street) but you sure wouldn’t complain if it was your a*s getting chewed up would you? Most of you don’t know what your talking about. You’re all like a lynch mob. Big talkers. Why don’t you all worry about cleaning up after your own dogs for a change (when you think no one is looking) and then teach your dog not to bite other dogs.”
There were no injuries of any kind on the pig, his wife, or his dog so your logic fails miserably.
to the rest of the people out there saying things like “it’s only a dog” im sure you would love it if someone walked up to you, percieved your dog as being a threat solely for being a dog and doing dog things, and shot it, followed by droves of people saying “relax, it’s just a dog”.
the simple fact of the matter is the “officer” -and i use that term loosely- over reacted, i sure as hell hope that the second some punk teenager who tries resisting arrest for a misdemenor doesn’t take a bullet because some power hungry pig thinks he’s a threat.
Really, what kind of man needs a gun to stop an 85lb dog? when i was 12 I was mauled pretty well by a German Shep, and had to recieve 43 stitches in my face….my brother ran away scared, yet I managed to regain control of the dog, put it in the dining room, and call the ambulance…myself…..at 12 years old….no weapons of any kind….
A full grown man couldn’t separate the dog from his dog and he wasn’t even the one being “attacked” which according to the reports seems like the dog was only establishing dominance.
Pitiful
Dave(857)
(836) sick of hypocrite dog owners says:
“You condemn the officer for running around with a loaded gun (like he was some average Joe on the street) but you sure wouldn’t complain if it was your a*s getting chewed up would you? Most of you don’t know what your talking about. You’re all like a lynch mob. Big talkers. Why don’t you all worry about cleaning up after your own dogs for a change (when you think no one is looking) and then teach your dog not to bite other dogs.”
There were no injuries of any kind on the pig, his wife, or his dog so your logic fails miserably.
to the rest of the people out there saying things like “it’s only a dog” im sure you would love it if someone walked up to you, percieved your dog as being a threat solely for being a dog and doing dog things, and shot it, followed by droves of people saying “relax, it’s just a dog”.
the simple fact of the matter is the “officer” -and i use that term loosely- over reacted, i sure as hell hope that the second some punk teenager who tries resisting arrest for a misdemenor doesn’t take a bullet because some power hungry pig thinks he’s a threat.
Really, what kind of man needs a gun to stop an 85lb dog? when i was 12 I was mauled pretty well by a German Shep, and had to recieve 43 stitches in my face….my brother ran away scared, yet I managed to regain control of the dog, put it in the dining room, and call the ambulance…myself…..at 12 years old….no weapons of any kind….
A full grown man couldn’t separate the dog from his dog and he wasn’t even the one being “attacked” which according to the reports seems like the dog was only establishing dominance.
Pitiful
First any person who calls a police officer a “pig” is difficult to take seriously. You would still call them if you’re in trouble. That must twist your panties in a knot.
It’s plain stupid of you to use your face to stop a dog, but have at it. I would prefer to use a gun.
All dogs should be on a leash at all times! I had the same thing happen to me and my wife. We had a Siberian Husky, walking her on a leash , and she was attacked by a loose pitbull . If i had a gun , I would have shot the dog! The officer should have shot the owner also.
That is why dog owners should carry pepper spray with them to the dog parks!
Dogs are lovely; I own three. Most cops are required to carry weapons, even off duty, not that this is a relevant issue to whether he was justified in what he did. Off-duty cops carrying their service weapon is common and, in my opinion, a good thing. Very fortunate when a bank robbery occurs, or a dog attacks a child, or another dog, or an old lady, etc. If he reasonably felt his safety or the safety of his wife or dog were in immediate danger, then he did what we all hate to see but was probably necessary. I’ve seen first hand what a large dog can do to another dog (or a human) in mere seconds and it is frightening. What would the response be if the attacker was human and attacked his dog (immediately next to his wife and cop) with a spiked hammer (read jaws with teeth). We would probably be giving him a citizen of the year award. Please give the cop some understanding; he’s probably not a bully or a dog hater, or a bad man. Rather, he made a tough decision in a split second and he probably feels as bad about the dog as all dog lovers do when a tragedy like this occur. Bottom line: if you take a dog to a dog park, it must not attack other dogs or kids, or adults, or geese or ducks, or anything. Control your dog because, if you can’t, it is a matter of time before a car, an off-duty cop, the law or another citizen does it for you.
lucky for the officer he didn’t shoot my dog or he’d be dead now.
I can’t remember which African country it is, but one or more countries have the policy that an alligator or Tiger must kill three villagers before that animal is killed.
That’s the policy that we need to enact nationwide. We have many, many humans to spare, and so few animals.
None of us was there…
Saying he was wrong or right without seeing the incident is jumping to a conclusion.
He’s a TRAINED Law Enforcement Officer. He hit what he shot at, I’ll take the Officers word that he needed too – UNTIL somebody produces EVIDENCE to the contrary. I’m sorry for the owners loss but IT’S JUST A DOG PEOPLE. I’m happy the Officer wasn’t hurt.
If he shot an armed robber “Off Duty”. We’d all be cheering him…
Just for reference Cops are Cops 24/7 in most areas. So would you like it if you could LOSE YOUR JOB for something you did away from work?
I am completely disgusted by this guy’s behaviour. Husky’s are pack dogs and rarely have a problem with other dogs. I can see that there may have been a problem because the Shepherd (from what I understand) was still leashed. Also, having been a Siberian Husky owner, I do understand that some are more “vocal” than others. My dog, Quincy, sounded like he was going to rip the other dogs throat out when playing, but he was just a “loud talker”. Other Husky’s play silently.
The guy is obviously a “macho” man. Husky’s are also not territorial, like German Shepherds are. Perhaps it was the aggressiveness of the Shepherd that really caused the problem. If any one looks up Siberian Husky on the internet, it will clearly state that it is not the ideal dog to get for protection. They love everybody.
Also, I am Canadian, so the comments above that talk about protecting your property and self, I find to be utter bull&^%$. At no time was this guy, his dog, or his wife, in fatal peril. At least not from the Husky, they are non-agressive dogs.
I hope they through him in jail, but of course they usually protect their own. Maybe the better recourse would be to give him community service in a shelter, so that he can learn the different nuances of each breed, so next time he can make an informed decision, before pulling out the gun and starting to shoot.
What a moron.
Facts:
Trained dogs do not attack other dogs whether they approach an animal that is off-leash or on.
Lazy owners have unpredictable animals.
Cops (in most states) have the right to carry concealed weapons whether off-duty or on.
Also:
Cops receive tons of training and while they are still human (and therefore capable of making a mistake–just like YOU) they have an ability to discern an attack from “playfulness” based on training and experience.
Cop-haters:
Someday you will call 911. Personally, I hope you receive a busy signal. Have fun defending yourself.
Are you out of your minds? I am an animal lover and will only adopt strays/shelter animals as I hate to see ANY animal killed because of a human’s irresponsibility. However, while many will deem this cruel to Bear & the fed officer in the wrong I strongly disagree. If Bear was “attacking” Asia (& this is the story until proven different), the agent had every right to protect himself, his wife & dog. While I understand the whole concept of no leash dog parks, it is still the owner’s responsibility to keep his dog in check. I say that Bear’s owner should be charged. Further, if the shooter is a federal agent as the you have written, he is probably supposed to carry his weapon off duty. How would any of you feel if a child had been attacked?
If a person goes to an off leash park then they should be aware that anything can happen. Dogs will be dogs, trained or not. Husky’s are a hyper breed to begin with, they are always on the move. To me, this story sounds like typical Husky hyperactivity and the owner of the Shepherd apparently doesn’t know anything about other dog breeds. I doubt that this Husky attacked anyone let alone another dog but it could be possible. I wasn’t there to see it. Still, there are ways to pull two fighting dogs apart without getting bitten yourself. Everyone should know how to defend their dogs in case of an attack. Using a gun is the last choice in my opinion. If that GSD wasn’t hurt in the altercation then the cop went too far.
I feel terrible for Bear Bear but nobody knows what fear was in his mind. I love dogs and have one myself. I just wish people had more compassion for each other than they do for animals. I know I am upsetting some people by this comment but we need to take care of each other first. It starts by caring for people first, then love and compassion for every lviing creature will follow.
I’m pretty sure simply discharging the gun into the air would have stunned the dogs into stopping? Wth…
All dog owners are narcissistic jerks. They buy dogs because dogs worship humans, and that’s what narcissists want. I laugh at all these stupid “dog parks” and off-leash areas. You dog ‘lovers’ (actually it’s the dog that loves you) ask for it. All you people crowding in to these parks, and these mutts are just acting the way 1,000,000 years of evolution has taught them to act: fight. They are territorial, what the heck do you expect.
Very difficult to form an opinion when we don’t know all of the facts. As an owner of two dogs, and a frequent visitor to my local dog park, I have to fault the person who brought his dog into the park on a leash. It DOES cause different behavior in dogs.
The fact that the second dog wasn’t even injured, indicates that the husky was shot unnecessarily. I strongly tend to suspect that this is a case of a police officer on a power trip. He did what he did because he thought that he could. At the very least, he should receive a formal reprimand for exercising poor judgement. (Since the second dog was not injured, it was not a situation requiring lethal force.) He should also be required to reimburse the husky owner for the cost of the dog. Although I know that being a policeman is a difficult job, I also know that there are some officers who shouldn’t be on the force. They have bloated egos and use their position to exert power over others. If anyone, including a dog, does anything to offend that bloated ego, the power-hungry cop overreacts. This incident sounds like one of those occasions.
It is also not surprising that initially his department said that his actions were justified. Unfortunately, many police departments go out of their way to protect their own, and complaintants need to be able to show overwhelming proof of a misdeed before most departments will take any action against the offending officer. I would not be at all surprised if this incident fades into obscurity without any action being taken against the police officer. People in the community, however, should keep an eye on his future behavior, and watch for complaints of police brutality. If I am right about the officer being on a power trip, there will be more complaints in the future.
wow – nice. So many post about how “nice” and typically friendly” Huskys are. BS – there isn’t any “typical” behavior for any dog. Dogs are unpredictable – hence why situations like this happens. Stop buying into the boo-hoo crap about a dead dog – fact is the dog was unsupervised, and made threatening actions toward humans after attacking a dog on a leash. The Huskys owner should have been with his dog to break up any potential problems rather than let the dog run wild. And don’t give me the crap about “unleashed park, why should the owner be there?”. I have a 4lb dog that gets mauled every time some owner lets his horse run wild at the park – and they always think its so damn cute. Its not – stay with your dogs people.
Are you serious? It was a dog. It acted aggressively. Good-Bye.
I own a husky (about 60 lbs) and this IS a pack dog. The comments on dogs being pack animals is right on the money. Should this dog have been shot? Maybe: because dogs are animals especially when threatened by another dog or trying to establish his place, perhaps this was the only way to stop the fight. Maybe not: My husky plays aggressively and his temperament could be misconstrued as being dangerous if you aren’t familiar. There must have been a very big problem for this officer to react the way he did. I don’t care what was going on there, this officer could have used his superior size and strength to subdue his own dog and diffuse this situation without using deadly force.
Having said that. How can any of us say how he SHOULD have reacted? He reacted and none of us would have had time to think HOW we should react. Give the guy a break if he shows remorse. Very sad for Bear Bear’s family.
To the idiots (ann and duh and the likes) who say shoot a warning shot in the AIR!!
Who does that reckless act? Firing a dangerous weapon can be done only to protect oneself NOT to produce a loud noise to deter someone.
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE BULLET after it is fired? It has to come down somewhere. STUPID PEOPLE.
Did anyone actually read the offical story from “The Baltimore Sun” newspaper? Many of you may keep your same opinion and some of you may wish to re-evaluate and change your opinion.
Comical, too comical!!!
None of you even know this guy and yet you’ve already condemed him to death. It never ceases to amaze me how violent people get on these boards. It really serves to validate the old adage, “opinions are like anal cavities, everyone has one.”
What ever happened to the adage, “if you don’t have something good to say, keep your mouth shut.”
The problem is people not taking that advice and spouting off about events they have no idea about, but apparently have a good bead on things and feel the need to share.
Too many people, too many opinions…now that is the real danger…opinions out of control!!!
Just another dumb-ass cop with an itchy-trigger finger.
He should have curb-stomped/Pistol whipped the mofo, not shot it(what a retarded name…. Bear-Bear).
Discharging a weapon in public is absolutely ridiculous. Make the guy buy them a new Bear-Bear and call it a day.
Any dog with a name bear-bear deserves to be shot.
I am not an animal lover per say, but I do not want to see nor hurt animals. The use of deadly force by a police officer is meant to be a last resort, not a mere solution. If the officer’s dog was badly hurt, or even hurt at all, I might be sympathetic to his cause. However, that is not the case. My gut tells me this guy is your classic bully who over reached his authority. People without guns break up dog fights with sticks and so forth, this guy could have tried something else before firing a gun with people around to stop a dog that in the end did very little to no damage to his dog.
I shot a dog under very very sililar circumstances. I side with the law enforcement officer, and I think any prosecution of him is a sham and a waste. Far far far too many HUMANEIACS around. Waste of legal and community money to do anything except put this to sleep. (pun intended)
Our constitutional rights are being erased by almost every local police department in the nation.
Ever watched “Cops”, as a person with insight into our
constitutional rights, I predict within the next 20 years
we won’t have any rights.
It will be the local governments against the local citizenry.
None of us were there and I’m sure any witnesses have already been discounted as drunk or on drugs. Or maybe they just mysteriously vanished. Bottom line. Without a video or audio recording to prove otherwise, a cop can get away with anything. Even with a video they still usually get away with it. They wouldn’t have even investigated the case if it wasn’t for public outcry. If he says he feared for his life,(Even though neither he, his wife, or his dog had a scratch on them), then we must believe him because he was trained to use a type of judgement which civilians can only dream of possessing when deciding whether or not to neutralize a threat. His decision was to shoot it in the a$$. He should stay away from dog parks from now on though because they can be really really scary places and we don’t want him comin back with an AK.
Isn’t this the same area where the off duty cop shot the Marine to death at a night club? What the heck is going on in MD?
take that guys badge away and press charges!
I feel sorry for bear bear the cop clearly overreacted to the situation if bear bear was really attacking why wasnt there any injurires to the cop or his dog? He was scared and acted without thinking like many cops have which resulted in the deaths of innocent people Its crazy how ppl are defending the cop as if its ok to shoot with no real reason. I take my dog to the dog park and i carry pepper spray in case there is a REAL fight
This is what happens when a society values an animals life over a humans. I have pets, but if one of them harmed another HUMAN wrongfully (not guarding me or mine) it is a danger to everyone. This officer was defending himself and his, and should not be punished like this.
that officer did not use common cents. hes a idiot who should never had a gun at a dog park. why did he not have a brain and bring pepper spray like most animal lovers would do? you dont bring a loaded hand gun to a park were dogs could play rough and you cant control your emotions
That is so outrageous! How dare Uncle Sam let a psycho schmuck go free, STILL ARMED, who gunned down a family pet at an OFF-LEASH park?
As tragic as it is for Bear-Bear’s family, at least it didn’t cost any *human* lives to stamp KEITH SHEPHARD clearly as a trigger-happy bum. If it hadn’t been Bear-Bear on that sad day, it might have been one or more human beings some other time!
Now, let’s watch and see if the Feds will take away KEITH SHEPHARD’S gun.
Rest in peace, Bear-Bear.
Jane, the article does not say he was a POLICE officer, only that he was a federal officer. Let’s not read into the article. You, too, Charlie. It doesn’t say he was a COP.
It’s a really sad and disturbing mess. Will we ever know the whole truth? I doubt it.
Bear Bear, on, you Husky. You can mush around Heaven now, I guess, to your heart’s content. Chimaba.
So, Rae, dog owners who are not at the dog park in the early morning are all lazy, you say.
Some of us are working the night shift, therefore not free to go parking until we get off work at 7 or 8, some of us lazies are getting our kids off to school, some of us are going to work after getting the kids off to school, some night shifters must go home and get the kids off to school, some are heading to a 2nd job, some have worked until 11p.m. or midnight and have gotten to sleep only at 3 or 4 or 5 a.m.
Some just prefer to go to the park at another time.
Why do you think that someone is lazy if they’re not at the part in the early morning? And what do you consider early – just wondering, not that it matters? Anyone not on your schedule is lazy? I would think you might enjoy there being fewer dogs and people at the park so your pet can have a little more space and less drama from fewer living beings being present.
I always hate shootings… I always love animals… I grew on a farm and feel I know animals… Sounds like this guy is dead wrong… shooting should not have occurred… seems to be common sense…. Penalties in my state for animal cruelty are stiff and I support them.
There are ways … records are public.
It really sounds to me that Jane is a P.O, to defend the actions of a P.O who knew that going into a none leash dog park there could be issues involved. Being in the Law Enforcement Community for over 20yrs, you try to look at both sides, I own two Pit-Bulls (Mother & Daughter) and they do not get along for anything and yes they did get nasty with each other once but I would never pull my weapon to kill or mame them. I also own a Rottweiler who is a retired K-9 and would never harm him either. Jane needs to look at this without prejudice, from what I have read about this case and not being there I would have to say that the officer involved in this was quick on the trigger, there were other ways to handle this first before the use of deadly force that is part of his training as well as anyone in the “Thin Blue Line” Family. One has to be in imminent danger before one can discharge his/her firearm especially in Public. My heart goes out to Bear-Bears family but please don’t look at all of law Enforcement as trigger happy because believe it or not most will never fire their weapon in the line of duty nor do they want to, it is not the way. Jane you need to wake up, I know what the “Thin Blue Line” means but when it is crossed like this then he/she needs to stand up and be accounted for.
Too bad. Seems a couple of out of control dogs got into it and the alpha male with a gun won. The owner of the dead pet feels so bad. “Oh, he’s never done that before, blah blah blah.” Right.
sick of hypocrite dog owners
yea, because most of us carry a gun around with us. I was trying to stop it with my face? sure, thats what i was trying to do, hey that dog is pissed, i better let it chew on my face.
I will call any cop who abuses his authority a pig, just like i will call anybody who thinks a gun solves problems a raving lunatic.
who can say…..when you honestly feel your dog is in danger…and you care about your dog as much as i do…well anything goes…but you better be sure that the danger is real and not just rough play….and it has to be reasonable…its really all in the heart and the head…..i would do the same to protect my dog…..anything if i had to…but i would only have to if the other dog was vicious….my dog is particularly nasty at times…but only with big dogs…so i am worried abt her..but i can always call her off…not so with others it seems….i always warn them that she is a bitch abt control and big dogs…but they say…oh let em play….its funny that they never say that when they have the smaller dog….so i give in and try to keep order…but they tell me its me creating the stress…truth is -i know my dog and with big dogs she will eventually go off…and then me and her are the villains…i love dogs hate fights …but people are a-holes…..i have been bitten many times …it hurts and you bleed …but no big deal…which is why i keep mine away from big dogs….i get hurt..she can fight better than me….the gun is the problem…but great to have if you run into a real bad situation…but too rare to carry
The answer to this whole story is found in the first
sentence of the third paragraph…’OFF LEASH”. Poor
precious pet, stupid precious pet owner, plain and
simple.
The most important piece of imformation in this posting is the fact that he entered the park with his dog on a leash. I see a few others noted that as well. As one poster said, it is usually the number #1 rule of any dog park. I read one comment where a person claimed they would be afraid their dog might get something from the other dog like bordetella. The park I go to requires vet records before allowing owners the code that accesses the park.
Dogs tend to play in several different ways, some like to run and be chased, some like to play fetch, and some like to wrestle. I have a border collie mix who will adjust his play to whatever the other dog wants to do. When wrestling, he is usually the dog on the bottom but the dog on top is almost always a female. They will put his entire neck in their mouths but they DO NOT bite down. It is called soft biting and since the still living dog had no injuries, that is probably what the husky was doing.
Most laws consider dogs to be property so I am sure there will be no justice in the eyes of the dog’s owner but discharging a firearm without proper cause, maybe the streets will be safer for everyone when this guy loses his job!
Cops are out of control bullies. They are in on mobbing and gangstalking.
My dog was recently shot and killed for runing at large by a neighbor. The asst animal control offficer took the word of the man that he was advancing . No investigation was done. Later a neighbor lady told us a different story. The man I believe is a memeber of the local volunter fire dept . Sheriff dept has not investigated because animal control here is not investigating any futher and it is legal to shot and kill a dog in our county . No additional investigation but i got my court notice today. The sheriff dept had been called and were in the neighbor hood . Also the dog shotter name has been held. .
Neighbors have and continue to threaten my Cats and Dog! they get drunk and take it upon themselves to play “God” with my pets! (One Shot bad but made it home to get help. doing fine! (Two Missing Feared Dead)
Michigan State Police say its a Felony to shoot domestic animals as my Tiger Cat rubbed on his leg “Yet” tells me that I can’t protect my property against “Druken Scum Bags” who kill innocent animals. I live in Michigan where law stats that you are in violation of the Law for shooting firearms while Drinking Alcohol Beverages! Yet Police can not or will not enfoce Our State laws they are sworn to Uphold! I said get Jail ready for me, if drunken Scum Suckers want a War they get one!
Animal Lover To The End!
As of now my Family and I stand Alone
I have owned dogs in the past, and I think the officer is justified in shooting the dog. It is the owners responsibility to keep the animal under control. If the dog was behaving in a threatening manner, the officer did what I would’ve done. I’ve been chased by several dogs this year. I actually shot at two dogs trying to attack me. If you or your family is under attack or you perceive a threat you cannot afford to wait to see what someone else feels about it. Control your animal and keep it leashed and you wouldn’t need to worry about your animal being hurt. It’s not my job of the officer in the stores job to defend themselves how you seem fit. I don’t have pepper spray, I have hollow points. If it comes to a point where I would need to use either i’m already in danger and you or your animal wouldn’t allow me to walk away. If me or my family is in physical danger, i’m shooting, period. It’s not other people’s job to know or assume how your dog is going to act. If he was a regular citizen with a cpl, the worst he would get is a misdemeanor for firing his weapon and a temporary suspension of his/her cpl. We love our pets, but they are property at the end of the day. Control your property. The attacking dog owner was wrong, and they shouldn’t get any compensation.
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