Hey Xcavator,
Poor Zac
I hope he doesn't get all "every dog did this to me" when you take him out next. It's a bit tough for you both at the moment, which isn't helping either I'm sure. Very irresponsible of the other owner not to assist your daughter in any way possible. If you see them again follow them home and let the council do the rest.
Do agree that Training is a very important (and often overlooked) part of Dog Ownership - and not just for the dog either. I also agree that ALL dogs can be dangerous regardless of breed, size, temperament ... especially to other people and other dogs ... and sometimes their owners. Education is often the missing key with pet ownership of any kind. It's important that the owner and the pet are trained in acceptable behaviour from an early age (yes when they are soooo cute), and the owner understands the responsibility of having a pet FOR LIFE ... BEFORE getting the pet. Perfect World stuff though.
We don't do "off leash areas" as I believe them to be a dangerous mix of the unknown for my dog. You don't know all the people there, how responsible they are in regards to their animals (worming / needles / training / fleas) ... we've had Pavo in the area recently as well according to my vet ... and sometimes dogs react badly to each other for whatever reason.
I have a small map of my suburb and mark suitable doggie walks on it - it came from the local phone book. I find it's often the dogs 'at home' that have the least supervision and I note those houses on my map so we can avoid them in the future (like the old dog up the road is often loose and she goes for you full old girl pelt).
Last thing I want to do is put either my dog or myself in harms way.
Kit_e
