Posted by AnnaWhaat on September 30, 2008 at 4:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How sad.......my Prayers go out to her family. God Bless you for donating her organs so others may live. Its a hard thing to do .
Honestly I do not believe anyone should be allowed to own a bit bull. They are dangerous dogs. I wish we could just do away with the whole breed of them.

Posted by DDX on September 30, 2008 at 5:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Please visit www.dogsbite.org to learn more about this growing problem

Posted by santabarbarasand on September 30, 2008 at 6:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

They are dangerous... the thing is that they can be perfectly nice and friendly dogs and then suddenly snap on young children. It happens ALL the time! My neighbor across the street has one and it will snap, they keep it chained up in their itty bitty front yard and it has no human company so it barks all day and all night. I see an explosion of violence from that dog just waiting to happen :(

Posted by frank14 on September 30, 2008 at 6:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Having a pit bull for a pet is like having a shark as a pet. They need to be outlawed.

Posted by twbeem on September 30, 2008 at 6:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

So very sad. I think people should be licensed to own the dangerous breeds. We all know that Pit Bulls are a status symbol for thugs and idiots. There are mostly responsible owners but the few people that just have them because it makes them look tough are not responsible. Dogs like that have to be properly socialized as puppies with humans and other dogs. Plus irresponsible owners need to be held more accountable for their psycho dogs attacking people. Animal cruelty, gross criminal neglegence, wreckless endangerment, heck make the owner responsible for the assualt and battery charges. That will make people put their dogs through formal dog training.

Posted by Thinkbeforeyoupost on September 30, 2008 at 6:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

santabarbarasand; you should report your neighbor. Chaining a dog up is considered animal cruelty today. Your neighbor doesn't sound like a person who should have a dog much less a Pit Bull. The Pit Bull breed is a fickled breed and it take special people to raise and own them. I think that their should be a special type of license to have a Pit Bull. That would eliminate all the idiots from having them. To many irresponsible people own Pit Bull for all the wrong reasons

Posted by JesusMalverde on September 30, 2008 at 6:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I read the many, many comments yesterday regarding this story. Many of them were from pit bull owners claiming that these dogs are wonderful dogs that have been m raised inappropriately. I find this argument completely insane!

One need only look at the statistics to see that there is a single breed of dog, out of the hundreds of breeds of dogs, responsible for a far greater number of attacks than all of the others.

Personally, I wonder what insecurities people have that lead them to want such an animal as a pet. It is either to prove how tough you are. Or, it is to prove to people that you are the exception. You are the person who can raise a pit to be different.

The bottom line is that these dogs are a particularly powerful breed of dog. They are also prone to attack. If you don't believe me read the stats.

Cities should look into banning these dogs. Simi would have a pretty convincing argument based on the recent attacks.

Posted by freethought on September 30, 2008 at 7:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

JesusMalverde - I saw those comments, too. They were mostly saying how their pit bull (mostly females) were just the sweetest animals. Most are until they are left alone with a small child that, in their own reasoning, "threatens" their territory. Just ask the former owners of pit bulls that were euthanized after an attack, and they'll tell you that they never would have dreamed their dog could have done something so horrific. Of all the bad breeds of dogs (and there are only a few), the pit bull is easily the most dangerous. It was genetically bred for one purpose - to fight.

Anyone with a pit bull is usually either trying to look "tough" or thinks the dog will make for great protection. Both are the wrong reasons to own a dog. I know so many will disagree with me, but absolutely no one can dismiss the facts. These dogs maim and kill more people than any other. That does not mean they are the most aggrssive, only the strongest of the bunch. Pit bulls are pure muscle, and have the strongest and widest jaws of any breed.

I absolutely love dogs, and I would not go as far as to say the breed should be destroyed. I would say, however, that they simply shouldn't be bred in the first place.

Posted by UncleRico on September 30, 2008 at 7:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Very tragic.

Ever notice that the folks that own these types of dogs are the very people who are least qualified and capable of handing them. As twbeem said, they get them merely as status symbols to demonstrate their toughness and then lose all control because they don't socialize them properly. If you ever watch "Dog Whisperer," you'll notice its really never the dog with the problem, but rather the owner. My guess is that applies in this situation as well.

Posted by DDX on September 30, 2008 at 7:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The problem with pit bull owners is they all think they are responsible and their dog won't attack because they don't understand the dog traits and history. Increasing the punishments AFTER an attack has occured isn't going to do anything in terms of prevention. What we need is either pit bull advocates to step up and educate the owners on what these dogs genetics are and how to own them properly, or government regulation to force owners to take greater precautions if they choose to own them. Pit bull overpopulation is another problem that can be dealt with by instituting mandatory neuter/spay of all pit bulls - this has been proven to work. But there is no reason to continue treating pit bulls the same as all other dogs when they are causing the greatest amounts of deaths/injuries, are overcrowding our shelters, and are used for such illegal activities as dog fighting and as guard dogs for drug dealers. Focusing on them makes sense from both a financial standpoint and a public safety one. For more information please visit www.dogsbite.org

Posted by Camman1 on September 30, 2008 at 7:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The owner should be euthanized. Now.

Posted by lawabider on September 30, 2008 at 7:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Actually, statistically, Rottweilers are responsible for more human deaths than Pits, but Pits are really coming to the top as more and more people own them... In this society, where dangerous and macho are what appears to be cool, the idiots are getting these dogs as a status symbol (like their bomber jackets, etc.) and these are not people we want to own these types of dogs... Breeding them should be outlawed FOR SURE!

Posted by puppyluv811 on September 30, 2008 at 7:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It's such a sad story to read. The sad thing is it's not the dogs fault, it’s another owner who screwed up and now a little girl has lost her life.
I've had a pit for 4 years, and he is the sweetest most loving thing. I spent a year of intensive dog training with him and he is one of the most loyal and loving dogs I have ever had.
Pit Bulls are like any other dog, a little training and love and they can be a great pet for anyone.
If you do the research, you'll find they actually do make great family pets, it’s the idiots who want to own one to look "tough" that give Pit's a bad name. I feel people need to spend more time and effort banning the idiots who can’t care for their dog, then the dog.

Posted by GitRdone on September 30, 2008 at 7:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

MAY GOD BLESS THIS LITTLE GIRL & HER FAMILY. MAY SHE REST IN PEACE .
GET RID OF ALL PIT BULLS. THESE DOGS ARE PRONE & KNOWN TO ATTACK. I THINK IT'S JUST STUPID TO TRUST YOUR OWN PIT BULL OR ANYONE ELSE'S. DO NOT LET YOUR CHILDREN PLAY AROUND & TRUST THESE TYPES OF DOGS. THERE HAVE BEEN JUST TOO MANY TRAGIC STORIES.

Posted by JesusMalverde on September 30, 2008 at 7:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Brief Facts about these Dangerous and Widely Banned Animals

In one study sponsored by the US Governement Centers For Disease Control it was reported that 32% of all dog related killings of human beings in the United States are caused by Pit Bulls attacks, yet Pit Bulls constitute only 2% of all dogs. 70% of those mauling deaths were of children.

According this large federal government study conducted over a 20 year period the Centers for Disease Control concluded that Attacks by pit bulls accounted for one third of the fatal dog attacks in the United States. This study also cited the disproportionate threat these dogs pose to children. Children, according to the study, are the most vulnerable victims in dog attacks, with those under the age of 14 accounting for 42 percent of all dog bite injuries. Most of the mauled victims are between the ages of five and nine.

Posted by cowchip on September 30, 2008 at 7:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To Katya's family...The picture of your daughter shows a beautiful little girl. I can't imagine the pain you must be suffering, but by donating her organs, you have ensured that her life was not in vain. I am so sorry for your loss.

Posted by pjlove10 on September 30, 2008 at 7:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pit Bulls make horrible pets, don't let pit bull owners tell you any different. Most owners use these beasts to feed into their own ego too. "Look, my dog is big and intimidating!" Get lost.

May God Bless this little girl and her family...

pj.

Posted by dtowers on September 30, 2008 at 8 a.m. (Suggest removal)

A lot of uneducated responses here. Look into the facts before you try to use them. While they are a very powerful breed, it is definitely humans who are at fault for their aggressive behavior.

Posted by pjlove10 on September 30, 2008 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes, I agree, most attacks by pit bulls are raised that way by their handlers. This is also a very aggressive breed by nature, thus the allure of many people who use them for fighting, intimidation, etc.

Posted by rebel123 on September 30, 2008 at 8:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I posted this last night, but will post it again. Dogs do not see children in the same manner they do adults because they are small and frequently at eye level with the dog. The child bumped into the dog, and likely when she did, looked straight into his eyes. This can trigger an aggressive response in a dog (especially male dogs). In the dog world, when this happens, the passive dog will defer to the alpha dog and avert eyes or show other passive behavior. If they don't, a fight ensues. Adults standing above a dog do not trigger the same response. These responses are unpredictable. Making matters worse, once this breed bites, they hang on and attempts to pry them loose triggers another breed response to hang on tighter. Just for the record, a poster last night claimed to be the owner and said the dog is not a pit bull but is a mastiff.

Posted by BeaHappi on September 30, 2008 at 8:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

RIP Katya...

My most sincere condolences to the Todesco family. May God hold you and keep you during this very sad time.

Posted by spulido805 on September 30, 2008 at 8:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What a very tragic story. May this family get the support they need. GOD SPEED....

Posted by lakerboy805 on September 30, 2008 at 8:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ask the dog whisperer his opinion.

Posted by mantiger808 on September 30, 2008 at 8:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think the misconception here is that people think Pit Bull is an actual breed. The truth is that most "pit bulls" are a mixture of different breeds. Statistically, mixed breeds are responsible for the most dog bites. Of pure breeds, German Shepards and Chows are responsible for the most bites.
I own an AKC / BKC registered English Staffordshire Bull Terrier. His bloodline is certified back six generations. People look at him and think he is a "pit bull". He is actually bred from an English Bulldog and Manchester Terrier and is a centuries old breed. I challenge anyone to show one documented attack by a registered SBT. In England this breed is called the "Nanny Dog" because it is so good with children...in fact it is only one of two breeds that can include in it's official description "good with children". My point is that we shouldn't condemn every dog based on it's appearance. Some people just shouldn't own dogs period. We have to be responsible owners. Chaining a dog is creating a time bomb. please look at this web site and get educated:

http://www.dogexpert.com/Dog%20Bite%2...

This attack is tragic. I have seen first hand the devastation that occurs in a dog attack...the worst being a Standard Poodle that tore the face off of a 6 year old.
Do Not Ever Leave a Child Alone With Any Dog! Period!
God bless this child and her family...

Posted by bobbear on September 30, 2008 at 8:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If you read it right it was a pit bull mix who knows what its mix with.Everybody quick to judge them.All you guys see is pit bull and jump on the band wagon.

Posted by NightLight on September 30, 2008 at 8:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rest in peace Katya, and I am also praying for the 13-year-old girl who tried to save her, what a horrible experience for such a young child to have to go through.

As to whether pit bulls are naturally aggressive or some irresponsible owners raise them that way, it doesn't really matter because both arguments go back to the fact that they should not be kept as pets. If people want to own dogs as pets, fine, but there is no reason people should keep that particular breed as pets.

Posted by Amazon on September 30, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

puppyluv, working in the animal field, I've seen even the most well-trained, docile dog attack. I've seen police dogs make mistakes!---The problem is, even the best dog might look at a small child as prey or as a rival rather than a superior. Even the most well-trained dog should be treated with caution and never be with children unless supervised. Personally I think households with children should not have certain breeds of dogs. All dogs have the potential to attack, but certain breeds won't kill if they attack. Best ere on the side of caution.
And you don't know how many times I've heard an owner after an attack say that their dog is trained, is the sweetest most loving dog and they just don't understand why it would turn!!! You can never fully predict the nature of a animal.

Posted by knicole79 on September 30, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have two pit bulls.Both are very well behaved and very loving.Most of these agressive dogs are rescues that have been through very traumatic events.I would like to see you get set on fire or tied to a pole to starve to death and still be a nice, pleasant person. My boyfriend and I are young professionals in our late 20’s and we don’t have these dogs to look “tough” or to guard our house. We rescued them and brought them up in a very loving environment. We have socialized them with many dogs and many people.Socialization is key here people.Certain dogs have certain boundaries,and if you are a responsible dog owner,you know these boundaries and you do not cross them.Dogs,no matter what kind should never be alone with a child.Children annoy dogs.This dog probably felt threatened by this child in some way when she bumped into him.Children have no authority and dogs sense that. The problem with pit bulls is that because idiots use them for fighting,they have a really bad rap.These dogs are very loving.Just like an ANIMAL or even any human,they can turn.My boyfriend grew up across the street from a girl who had her face mauled by her family Lab.My 80 pound pit bull has been attacked THREE times by other dogs and has never fought back.He is great with children, but I am still smart enough to know that I should not leave children alone with him.I don’t think for one second he could hurt anyone… but he is an animal with animal instincts.It’s almost like leaving a stranger alone with your child.If you do a little research you will see that these dogs were not originally bred for fighting. They were bred for taking down cattle. They also were given the nickname “nanny dogs” because people back in the day used to use them to look after their kids.Many MANY pit bulls are service dogs,life guards and considered heroes.Discriminating against all pit bulls because there are a few bad dogs is like discriminating against one race because there are a few bad people.Statistics show that these dogs pass aggression tests with flying colors!As for the “locking” jaw, research EVERYWHERE proves that their jaws DO NOT lock.As I stated before, they were bred to take down cattle and in this training were taught not to let go.The fact that they have so much muscle behind them makes their bite stronger.But there jaw in consistent with that of any other dog.As for the guy with the neighbor who keeps his dog tied up, its people like that who make these dogs aggressive.If you were tied up in your front yard everyday,not socialized, you too would be aggressive and angry.He should be reported and people like that should not be able to not only own pit bulls,but should not be able to own animals in general.I understand that people not educated on this breed think the worst because you only hear the worst in the news.I was one of those people before I got my first pit bull.A little training,a lot of socialization and a lot of love and these dogs are absolutely amazing!

Posted by jean.reed on September 30, 2008 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Come on, a 35 lb. mastiff. I don't think so. Aren't they huge dogs, that weigh well over 100 lbs.
My condolences and prayers to the family and friends of this poor dear child. RIP Katya.

Posted by pjlove10 on September 30, 2008 at 9:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pit Bulls, ticking time bombs. Good luck though.

Posted by FedUp on September 30, 2008 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

there has been some extremely irresponsible, and inconsistent reporting on the STAR's side.
I would like to apologize for comments I made yesterday, blaming the parents. the article yesterday intimated that the dog was not the parents dog, but was living in their home. it made the parents sound like they were almost forced to take the dog in. this article cleared things up a bit.
my sincerest condolences to Katya's family.

People, please make sure that you do not leave small children alone with any dog.

90% of the time, it is the owners reckless behavior which leads to a dog attack. look at the owner, before you discount an entire breed of dogs.

the case in SF which was finally settled, did not involve actual Pit Bulls. It did not stop the media from calling them pit bulls for months, before they realized it was an entirely different breed.

Posted by Oxnard_Lady on September 30, 2008 at 9:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My deepest condolences to Katya's family. It brought tears to my eyes just reading this story. I also have a 5 year old girl. My mom's 4 year old female chihuahua bit my daughter. It was a small nip but either way we got rid of it. It's not just Pit bulls but its all type of dogs around small children. My prayers go out to the family. May God Bless You All.

Posted by surfwidow on September 30, 2008 at 9:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What makes me SICK is all the people (freaks) who are on this post sticking up for the dog. "Pitbulls are great dogs"...MY @$$!

Posted by mischif77 on September 30, 2008 at 9:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How about the other breeds?? I notice no one is crying out how horrible it is that Dalmations, Labs, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and yes, even Chihuahuas are bad biters!! Gimme a break, a dog, ANY DOG, of ANY breed is only as good as the owner that raises/trains it. How about everyone start focusing on the problem of irresponsible people and not the breed of dog. All dogs can be good, or bad, just like people. Singling out a specific breed is like racial profiling, only not as much attention is given to it because it suits peoples ideals of victimization.

Posted by pjlove10 on September 30, 2008 at 9:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pit bull attacks far beyond outweigh any other breed in regards to attacks on people. It's common knowledge.

Posted by alisupinyun on September 30, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If you read the story Officer Jenkins says pit bull attacks are reported more often. Any dog can and will attack if it feels threatened. I am a pit bull owner not by choice but because my son got him when he was a puppy and then didn't have anywhere to keep him. He is, in my opinion a wonderful and very affectionate dog, however I do not trust him with children EVER and whenever I have company he is kept in his kennel. Never trust any dog around your children even if the owner tells you it won't bite there can always be a first time.I agree that pit bulls are a dangerous breed and a very powerful breed and people should be required to have some sort of training or requirements before they can own one but until there are different laws all pit bull owners please be more responsible so we can prevent tragedies like this one. My heart goes out to this family.

Posted by pjlove10 on September 30, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why would you want to keep an animal that "cannot be trusted around children, ever." No matter if he is affectionate or loving some of the time, or to specific people. That's why I say, there will come a time when you will unfortunately be in the same situation. You don't HAVE to own animals, but if you do, you should own something that does not have a predisposition for aggressive behavior.

Posted by pjlove10 on September 30, 2008 at 9:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

And, by the way, YOU do have a choice. We all have and make choices in life. My choice is to NOT own a dangerous animal.

Posted by 805Mommaof2 on September 30, 2008 at 9:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To the Todesco family, I am very sorry for your tragic loss. Take comfort in knowing that your daughter although gone will never be forgotten and a piece of her lives on in others through your generous gift of donation. There are no words that can change what you are feeling now, however I pray for you and your family that strength, compassion and the Lord will see you through this very hard time. God Bless!

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 9:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You when children were victimized and killed they created Megans Law but when children are killed by pit bulls and rottweilers there is nothing done about it.

I have a small dog that barks when someone comes by, that is all the security you need. By a bat or gun for protection not a dog that could kill your children. I was attacked by a german shepard when I was kid. I will not let my children anywhere near a dog that is known to turn on you.

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 9:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

woops, my comment should have read:

When children were victimized and killed they created Megans Law but when children are killed by pit bulls and rottweilers there is nothing done about it.

I have a small dog that barks when someone comes by, that is all the security you need. Buy a bat or gun for protection not a dog that could kill your children. I was attacked by a german shepard when I was kid. I will not let my children anywhere near a dog that is known to turn on you

Posted by puresap on September 30, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow how sad when uneducated people want to legislate Dog Specific laws. I challange anyone of you who think those of us that are raising such an animal has it to look tough. I am 42 years old and a professional with 4 children and I can tell you for a fact that all animals and children are a product of environment. I live on a small street and each and everyone of my neighbors have changed their views on Pits specifically because how we have raised this animal. However I never for one moment forget that they are DOGS and would never leave a child alone as any animal finds the child as not an equal due to size and behavior of a small person. I have a Great Dane also who weighs in the ballpark of 170lbs compared to the Pit at 60lbs you tell me who is scary looking my neighbors will tell you the Dane's size is very intimidating however he is as sweet as they get AGAIN it is in how you raise your animals. Anyone who posts and knows of a Pit/Pit Mix that is tied up 24hrs a day shame on you for allowing that to go on in your neighborhood. Each and everydog on my street and that is 12 dogs in all get along and non are tied up. The most annoying dog in my neighborhood is a Snoodle and this dog goes after kids riding bikes,skateboarding etc but oh now it is a little dog so it is okay to condone such behavior, MY @SS just because it is small is no reason to tolerate aggressive behavior. However who reports when a small dog attacks "NO ONE". Not one of my dogs is aggressive and there is no reason to be as they are part of my family and not thrown outside to rot. They are just as spoiled as my children.

Posted by calgirlinky on September 30, 2008 at 10:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have kids, a cat, a bird and two dogs, yes, one is a pit bull. We got corky (hey, I didn't name him, my son did) when my son was about 3 (he is now 12 and my youngest is 2).We were very lucky, as we got him within days of birth and have raised him to know nothing other then a loving, friendly, kid filled home. He is great with them, and truth is, he's paid less attention to my toddler then the dang cat has. However, as a parent, corky nor pringles (a bulldog) are ever alone with my little one. I know that regardless, they are still ANIMALS. We have a little more "padding" I suppose in the fact that corky has no teeth, thanks to a gum disease, but we know that as a pit, he's still strong in the jaw. I also know that as dogs, regardless of breed, that I can't pretend to know what they are thinking and feeling, so I make sure to watch both them and the boys. I have a friend with two wolves as pets, and they are a blast to have around...and my kids have "ridden" them through the years. It truly is the owner and the enviornment that make the biggest difference. It's those that have the stupid belief that thier dog can't do anything wrong, that end up not taking care of and properly training the dog, and that is when scary and unfortunate accidents such as this occur.

Posted by pjlove10 on September 30, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry, not changing my mind. These types of dogs are dangerous. Please don't try and pad your stories with how sweet he or she is. I'll be the first to shoot it if one ever does harm to me or a family member.

Posted by roxy_1313 on September 30, 2008 at 10:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Puresap and calgirlinky you are absolutely correct. It is nice to see that there are responsibel pit owners out there. I have had my pit for almost 4 years now. They need disipline and training, and even with all that I still do not leave my pit alone with children, nor would I leave a child around any dog alone

Posted by e_arreguin on September 30, 2008 at 10:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

my mom has owned a full breed pitbull since it he was born and he is kind and gentle mostly acts like a child it is how they are raised and tought just like a child if you raise them to fight and be mean then thats how they grow up my moms pit bull is really gentle over protective of my 5 year old niece never once tried to hurt her and i belive yes ther are bad owners of these animals but also there are wonderful pitbulls that are raised to be caring he is overprotective of my mom and i know any real danger he will fight he grew up with a cat and they were best friends and he still mourns her passing which she died as a result of an attak by another dog seriously not all pitbulls are bad and i know our JR is a wonderful funny animal sometimes to human but that is how is was raised without violence and lots of love and caring so dont judge all pitbulls because some owners do not know how to raise them we have had him for over 10 years and he;s wonderfull with my niece

Posted by pjlove10 on September 30, 2008 at 10:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"even with all that I still do not leave my pit alone with children"

'nuff said.

Posted by PabloE on September 30, 2008 at 10:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I love all this nonsense about not leaving kids alone with a pit bull. Very few parents have the necessary skills or strength to get a pit bull to release a child once an attack happens. All you are there for is to clean up the mess a little quicker.

Anybody who chooses to have a pit bull, or any aggressive breed of dog, around a child has very poor judgement.

Posted by brwnoso on September 30, 2008 at 10:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My sincere condolences to the Todesco family.
RIP KATYA

Posted by mommainthe805 on September 30, 2008 at 10:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

STOP SAYING PITS ARE ONLY MEAN IF THEY ARE RAISED IN A HOSTILE ENVIRONMENT...PIT BULLS ARE NATURALLY MEAN DOGS AND MAY ACT NICE UNTIL. THEY. SNAP. DUUUUUUHHHH. JUST BECAUSE YOU LOVE YOUR PARTICULAR PIT BULL DOESN'T MEAN YOU SHOULD IGNORE THE FACTS THAT THEY ARE MENTALLY UNSTABLE AND ARE AGRESSIVE DOGS...EVENTUALLY.
AS THEY SAY...IGNORANCE IS BLISS, I GUESS...BUT LOOK AT THAT LIL GIRLS FACE.

Posted by tmh83 on September 30, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I completely agree that the owners are partly to blame for dog attacks. But there have been questions as to why no one reports attacks on small dogs. Some have been reported, however, most of them are not because these attacks DON'T KILL CHILDREN! To the families with pit bulls who actually raise these dogs to be loving and who watch their dogs and do not allow them around children and adults, I commend you. Your dog may be harmless (hopefully). But I think it is sick when people try to stick up for the dogs who are killing people, saying that these dogs know that children have no authority and that when they are at eye level, they are prone to attack because children can be annoying to them!! Children are children. I don't know about you, but if there is a chance that these dogs could attack ANYONE, not just children, then they do not belong in the neighborhoods where children are playing. We should not have to hold our children inside for fear that an aggressive dog could be out there.

Now don't get me wrong. I am a huge animal lover. I cry more in movies when an animal is hurt. But I have more compassion for humans like Katya than animals. Stop sticking up for these dogs and stick up for humans.

Pit bulls should not be kept as pets. Yes, other dogs have been responsible for brutal attacks and deaths, but which ones do we hear the most about? Pit Bulls. Enough said.

Posted by Minergirl on September 30, 2008 at 10:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My heart goes out to the Todesco family. My Mom lost her wonderful little Yorkie named Tinkerbell that same night in Simi Valley from a pitbull attack. My Mom opened her front door because it was hot and put up her baby gate to keep her two small yorkies from going outside. The Pitbull who was not on a leash and being walked by small kids broke down the baby gate and ran into my Moms house and killed her Yorkie. My Mom was home alone and tried so hard to stop the vicious attack. I am so thankful that my Mom is okay with only having bruises and cuts. My Mom is traumatized by the whole ordeal that we feel could of been prevented. It is so imporatant to follow the law and keep All dogs on a leash !!!

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 10:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

puresap,

You are the uneducated person. Every time, including when a German Shepard attacked me when I was petting it, the owner says "my dog has never done anything like this before. He is a friendly dog"

Its like teaching a shark not do its normal behavior. I dare you to let your child or your nephew or neice alone with the pit bulls in my neighborhood. Even Siegfried and Roy learned the hard way that their domesticated animals can turn on them.

Posted by calisurf on September 30, 2008 at 10:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ok clearly you people have no idea what your talking about. First of all its the way you raise a dog not the dog itself. All dogs want to please their masters. Second for the person who said look at the statistics, get your facts straight! Sheep dogs, and smaller dogs are responsible for more bites than ANY other breed. I have worked for animal rescue places almost my whole life including a pit bull rescue and so has the rest of my family. If these dogs are the demons you portray them to be explain to me why Michael Vicks's 26 pitbulls were 100 percent rehabilitated and placed in homes with other pets and children. A few of them are even therapy dogs for sick and dying people in hospitals. So you tell me if these dogs are so bad natured then how is it possible for them to be turned from fighting machines into family pets? Get your facts straight. Its people like you who should never be allowed to own a dog. PIT bulls are safe dogs, its the way you raise them just like any other dog. Its the media that has made a frenzie about pitbull bites. If that would have been any other breed of dog you would never have even heard about it. I am truly sorry for the loss of this little girl, i myself have a small child and could not imagine the pain and frustration they must feel.

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 10:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope the pit bull owner is sued for millions and they lose their home.

Then we can see who the uneduacated people really are, The pit bull owners. I would sue them for everything they own including future earnings if it was my child.

Posted by Snafu on September 30, 2008 at 10:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Again, my condolences to the family and friends of Katya. You are to be commended for making the difficult decision to allow Katya to live on in the lives of others through organ donation.

Kathy Jenks and Animal Control should be ashamed of themselves!! My neighbor has four pit bulls and two of them are chained up ALL DAY LONG (the other two are in dog kennels). They are behind a fence but I still don't feel safe. Animal control has been out numerous times but they won't do anything. (Chaining a dog for more than 3 hours is illegal in Ventura County, not to mention cruel. Chaining a dog at all is illegal in L.A. county.) Instead, she and her staff have told us to go after the owner for barking because it's "easier"!! Way to go Kathy Jenks. We have many children, dogs, cats, and horses in our neighborhood whose lives are in danger as long as these dogs are allowed to stay there (none of these pit bulls are spayed or neutered). The guy who owns the dogs doesn't even live there; he just rents the back of the lot for these dogs.

I hope there doesn't come a day when Kathy Jenks and Animal Control have blood on their hands from these dogs if or when they kill someone. It won't be the dogs' fault...it will be the stupid humans' fault! Release the lawyers!

Posted by Snafu on September 30, 2008 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

By the way, why would a dog be trained to take down cattle? (Someone said that's what they were bred to do.)

Posted by smhalen on September 30, 2008 at 11:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with you calisurf. It is the way you raise any dog, that will determine their personality. We had a german shepard for fourteen years, he was a great watchdog and family dog, but we would never leave him with any small children. We now have a pitbull mix and my son's full pitbull. They are truly high energy, but very good dogs. Again, we make it a point not to leave anybody that they do not know alone with them. An owner of a pitbull, needs to use good judgement with these dogs. Also, my thoughts and prayers to the family.

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

calisurf,

Did Siegfried and Roy abuse their tigers. I would say they were treated great. Even when Roy almost died he said he wasn't reading the animal right. GIVE ME A BREAK. Some animals are more agressive then others. We have never heard of a Chihuahua killing someone or even a great dane. Some animals instinctivly go for the neck ensuring a kill. Pit Bulls are one of those animals.

Besides, if you have to watch your animal or make sure it doesn't leave your backyard because it could kill someone I would call it a liability.

Posted by PabloE on September 30, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Calisurf, actually the stat that someone posted is that pit bulls are responsible for 33 percent of fatal dog attacks, yet they make up roughly 2 percent of the canine population.

There is a serious difference between a dog bite and a fatal dog attack. We are not talking about small dogs and nipping dogs. Get on topic. This is about people (children) dying.

Insurance companies recognize it. Go tell your homeowners insurance agent that you have a pit bull and find out what it does to your rates. You know why they go up? Actuaries, people who study stats, have concluded that pit bulls and some other breeds are far more likley to cause a serious injury than other dogs.

Because Mike Vick's dogs were eventually adopted out does not make them safe. Time will tell whether there are problems with those dogs. Would you want one? I sure as heck would not.

Posted by FedUp on September 30, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

so now it is Kathy Jenks fault? sorry, I was unaware that she made the laws about the animals.

maybe if you actually spoke with your neighbors about the situation, it might get fixed.

stop blaming the dogs for having bad owners. and it is extremely unfortunate what happened. I could not even begin to imagine if I lost my daughter.

Posted by tmh83 on September 30, 2008 at 11:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

For those of you who own pit bulls, try imagining that Katya was your child. As freak an accident as you may think, imagine your child was killed by a pit bull. Now maybe you will understand why no body else wants pit bulls around, no matter how sweet you may think yours is.

Posted by smhalen on September 30, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

tmh33

Your right, that is why if you don't want a pitbull, don't own one. I didn't ask for the ones that I have, my kids brought them home. We have adapted to them. Again, I need to remined you tmh33, both of my children, when they were little were both bitten badly by c---er spaniels. I know any dog is dangerous, pitbulls to little tea cup dogs.

Posted by freethought on September 30, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

puppyluv811 - I agree that the problem lies with people, but I disagree on these dogs having the capacity to be wonderful family pets - maybe for a single person, but certainly not someone with children. If you have children, you are simply lucky so far. Pit bulls snap without any warning. They simply see a situation where their territory is threatened, and they eliminate the "threat". You may see them playing well with children for several years, then tear one apart before you can do anything about it.

As I said, the problem lies with people. These dogs only exist because they were bred, so people bear the blame for the breed's existence. Their purpose was to fight and protect property (mainly to fight). The aggressiveness needs to be bred out of them. Of course, their physical features would change, and they would be pit bulls anymore.

Someone on this thread mentioned how pit bulls weren't a true breed. Although that is somewhat correct, keep in mind that all "breeds" aren't really pure, as they all stem from prehistoric wolves. Some original breeds developed on their own, but most were created through selective mating.

Posted by jessy9 on September 30, 2008 at 11:19 a.m.

(This thread was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by eggsorpancakes on September 30, 2008 at 11:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm another one who's tired of people giving us their "wholesome" pit bull stories. I'm aware of a pit bull that was loving and pleasant for years and years...raised as a baby by a great family. When the dog was 12 years old it attacked their daughter...luckily the injuries were not severe, but the dog did this and it was not provoked. There is something bad about this breed and if you choose to own one with young children around you are not a responsible person. I happen to question owning a Rottweiler as well...

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 11:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

tmh83,

Pit bull owners don't care that some child died. Because it could never happen to them or to someone elses child because they are so responable with their dogs.

Again, I have read many stories that say, "My dog was such a friendly dog."

Posted by MyNameIsOffensive on September 30, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why anyone would keep a Pitbull is beyond me. Why anyone would dogsit one is just totally out there.

I really think the dog owners should be charged in these types of deaths.

Posted by trek_queen on September 30, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Does anyone have any information about the dog attack the article mentions happened on Lysander? This is my street and there are two particular houses I know with viscious pitbulls (one house with multiple ones) in the neighborhood and since I have heard ABSOLUTELY NOTHING about this event last week, I would like to know more details.

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jessy9,
Your comments are pointless. You don't feel sorry for the family because they left their child with a pit bull (and I wouldn't leave my child with one either) and then give the thumbs up on actually having a pit bull. How $tupid is that?

I wouldn't feel sorry if a pit bull escaped from someones backyard and attacked you.

Posted by tmh83 on September 30, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

smhalen:

I did not say that people who do not want a pit bull should not own one. I said that owners of pit bulls should not own one. There is so much said about how "if you raise a pit bull right, it will not be aggressive." Well, why should we put our trust in you (pit bull owners) and feel safe walking in our neighborhoods with our dog or letting our children play outside, or even leave our doors open for fear that your "well trained pit bull" will not attack?

Also, smhalen, I did not forget that you own two, but you chose to let your children keep those dogs, which is a risk that you are willing to take.

Minergirl, I am so sorry about your mom's innocent dog. Things like this should not happen. My grandparents almost lost their little dog due to a pit bull. Once again, the dog was not on a leash. But I wonder if a leash would do any good.

Posted by trek_queen on September 30, 2008 at 11:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, the reason I asked N_Cash is that usually word spreads rather quickly in our neighborhood about goings-on since it used to have a very well networked neighborhood watch team and we all find out stuff pretty easily. My neighbors haven't mentioned anything at all and I want to know if its the people I'm thinking are the owners.

There was another attack a little over a year and a half ago where a loose dog walking the street walked into a neighbor's open front door and attacked their own dog. That, too, was a pit (though I hold it to the fact that owners are idiots and don't train their dogs well... I know someone who was attacked by two pits and their owners didn't care at all). Animal control was trying to wrangle it and going door to door looking for the owner.

Posted by puppyluv811 on September 30, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

knicole79:
I'm in the same boat as you. We have our pit because we rescued him (and our other dog who is not a pit). We've had many judge us, but once they see the dog and have their kids interact with him they are amazed! Our pit is our "marshmallow" dog.
We've been to the dog park in Ventura and it's so sad how many times "friendly" dog breeds have taken a bite, growled or even attempted to attack both our dogs because they don't want to play rough, yet we are the "a------s" because one our dogs is a pit.
Oh and did I mention we are in the process of having our PIT BULL be certified as a THERAPY dog!
It's so sad to read how harsh and judgement people can be... again it's people who need some lessons.

Posted by ca4ever on September 30, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well I think everyone should stop arguing whether or not pit bulls are safe dogs, etc. I also think you shuld stop blaming the parents in this situation. It clearly stated that they were visiting a friend and it was not even the friends dog. They were pet sitting, so maybe Katyas mom did not even realize that there was a pitt bull in the backyard.

The point is, this family has lost a beautiful little girl and they need everyones support right now. So instead of wasting your time on here arguing about the darn dog, out some of that energy into helping others.

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 12:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

puppyluv811,

Your right, "it's people who need some lessons"

Maybe you will have the luxury of fighting off the lawyers when you learn your lesson when your pit bull turns on someone.

As a matter of fact let your pit bull off the leash in your front yard. No need to tie down such a friendly dog.

Posted by smhalen on September 30, 2008 at 12:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

tmh83

My son is away at college, and he could not take Leo back with him, this is, hopefully only a temporary housing situation, and my daughter brought the other dog home because our german shepard was getting old. Normally, I would have never gotten a pit bull, but I do still think they get a bad rap, because people do not understand how to raise or treat them.

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ca4ever,
How are you related to the victim. It would seem to that the victims family would be against pit bull ownership now that they lost their daughter.

If not then I puzzled. Even the father that created Megan Law showed he cared for change to fix a obvoius issue.

Posted by daltonemail on September 30, 2008 at 12:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hearfelt condolances and prayers to the parents and family of little Katya. May she rest in peace, and may this sad tragedy cause us to take action so that no other families have to endure such a tragic and NEEDLESS loss.

BTW, I too am an avid dog lover and have owned several so-called" aggressive breed dogs (Rottweilers, German Shepards,). Although we always took great care and acted responsibly with them, it only took one "small" incident for us to understand YES, they could and almost did attack a small child in our yard, with several adults in supervision. It didn't matter how "loving" they were with us...we made the the PAINFUL and CORRECT decision to have them euthanized. The pain in our decision was NOTHING compared to the pain that we would have felt and unintentionally inflicted upon another family had we not done so. For those of us (and I do include myself in this grouping) that choose to believe our "high risk" or "aggressive breed" animals are loving pets, incapable of this type tragic and devastating behavior...please think again...your dogs may be great and loving dogs but, it only takes one bad "hair day" for your loving K-9 to snap...and then it is too late.
BTW, take a look at the inventory of animals awaiting adoption at VC Animal control at:

http://www.countyofventura.org/animal...

Guess which breed(s) have the highest percentage of the population, and the OWNERS do NOT claim?

Posted by butterflygone on September 30, 2008 at 12:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is so sad. Prayers to Katya, may she rest in peace and also prayers to the family. This is a horrible thing to have to go through. I commend the family for giving hope to other families by donating her organs. Through them Katya will live.

I have a 3 year old daughter and I can only imagine what the family is going through. My daughter loves dogs, but she is being raised with a respect for the fact that they can and do bite.

I believe the problem is the owners, not the dogs. Those dogs have no business around people, especially around kids. You can tame a lion to be nice, but do you trust it around your kids? The same thing goes for dogs. They are first and foremost animals. They do not know right from wrong, or a small kid from squirrel. All they see is a meal. I don't fault the dogs, it's in their nature. I fault the owners.

Posted by ca4ever on September 30, 2008 at 12:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

vcsexplorer11- Who is saying that they are not against it? I am not for pit bulls, I am not a dog person period, but that is my own opinion. I think any dog can snap on a dime, I have seen it. I am scared to death of pit bulls, just because of everything I have seen on the news and the people they have killed. As I stated, I am not on this post to fight wheter or not pit bulls are good dogs, I am stating that instead of arguing about it on the VC Star online or making such horrible comments about the parents, find out the real facts and so something about it. I for one however do not feel as though the parents are to blame in this situation.

Oh and I am not related, I do not even know them

Posted by tmh83 on September 30, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ca4ever and N_Cash:
You are right. These people who are sticking up for pit bulls instead of the safety of humans are never going to learn until their pit bulls attack one day. They will stand wide eyed, wondering how their "sweet" dog could do such a horrific thing.

Posted by ca4ever on September 30, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

daltonemail - I agree with everything you said. Although I myself am not a dog lover, I agree that any dog can bite and it can happen to anyone.

Posted by dse_kpa on September 30, 2008 at 12:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Katya looked like an angel, and to donate is a beautiful and compassionate thing to do during your time of loss. Prayers and strength to family and friends....

This news has been heartbreaking to hear, especially as a pit-mix owner. The name-calling, discrimination, and streotypes that people are posting does not help matters, and is very insensitive, especially to the parties involved.

It is a very tragic loss, and perhaps we can learn something from this and be pro-active about responsible dog ownership, instead of blaming and stereotyping.

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ca4ever,

By the way, I have never said anything bad about parents in my comments, just comments about pit bulls and their owners.

Posted by ca4ever on September 30, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://pit-bulls.christianfunfair.org...

Not a pretty picture of all of the horrible attacks that have happened

Posted by ca4ever on September 30, 2008 at 12:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

vcsexplorer11- I never said you did, I was referring to all the posts. I have never mentioned your name except to respond to your comments

Posted by pjlove10 on September 30, 2008 at 12:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Bottom line is that any animal is inpredictable in their behavior. And the people that own these pit bulls are just blind to that fact because they haven't been in a situation where their beloved "pet" killed or badly injured someone.

Posted by vcsexplorer11 on September 30, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ca4ever,

I was just clarifing I wasn't one of them posters also since your comment didn't.

By the way, good post on pit bull attacks. It shows that pit bulls have a justified bad rap. I am sure that the owners will keep blaming the owners for mistreating their dogs instead of the breed.

Posted by Minergirl on September 30, 2008 at 1:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes I do have information in regards to the Lysander attack. It was at my Moms house. I did post above to what happened. Again I will say, She opened (my mom) her front door and put her baby gate there so her 2 little yorkies could not get out. A pit bull was being walked with no leash and by children. The angry vivious pitbull ran up to my Moms porch broke down her baby gate ran into her house and killed her little Yorkie Tinkerbell. My Mom is traumatized about what happened in her home. She was there alone and was trying to stop the pitbull all by herself. Lucikly my Mom has only a samll bite wound on her leg as well as bruises and cuts. My heart goes out to the family that lost there little girl, what a horrible tradegy. I am in hopes that my Mom as well will be okay. Tinkerbell was her baby and to see her slaughterd like that in My Moms own home is something I am sure she will not get over anytime soon.

Posted by secforce146 on September 30, 2008 at 1:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There is no reason to own a Pit Bull, other than fighting, attacking, or macho status. They are living weapons, developed for killing. The old cliche "they act the way they are raised" is bologna. Allowing anyone, especially children, around Pit Bulls is negligent, and should be illegal. You know a community is going down hill when you hear of fatal Pit Bull attacks.

Posted by DDX on September 30, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pit bull owners PLEASE get educated on your dogs.

http://www.pbrc.net/breedinfo.html
http://www.realpitbull.com/fight.html
http://www.workingpitbull.com/aboutpi...

Read sites like these that will explain to you that it is not how you raise a dog but its genetic traits that cause these problems. They will also explain to you why you NEVER bring a pit bull to a dog park. To the individual you said pits were originally bred for bull baiting, that's true, but after bull baiting became illegal in 1835 they were bred for fighting and still are today. But perhaps because of their bull baiting past, pit bulls are known for attacking and sometimes killing full grown horses. What other dog does that? And what chance does a child have against a dog that can kill a horse? Why would you own that type of dog? http://www.dogsbite.org/blog-horse-at...

For those of you who are still holding on to the idea that the only pits that attack were those trained to do so, answer me this: just how does one go about training a family pet to attack and kill children, and for what purpose? Why would anyone one do that? And if you answer is no one specifically trains for attacking, but attacking is the result of inadequate training and ownership, then again, why get this kind of dog? All breeds of dog have bad owners, most people don't train their dogs as well as they should, yet the only dogs that are continually in the news attacking people, children, pets, and livestock are pit bulls. It is the breed, a bad owner just makes it worse, but a bad owner with another dog usually does not end in death. Other dogs don't grip and hold and not let go when you hit them with a 2X4.

For the SBT owner (and yes, that is a pit bull):
http://www.leightonbuzzardonline.co.u...
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/en...
http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/37077...

Posted by hisgrl on September 30, 2008 at 1:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am scared of dog’s period! I will not let my kids go any where near a dang pit bull!
It may or may not be the dogs fault ,,,,but I am not willing to take any chances with my kids lives

Posted by BabyzDaddy_01 on September 30, 2008 at 1:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry to hear about this little girl's passing. RIP.

That's why I don't like dogs of any kind. I'd rather have kids.

Posted by jessy9 on September 30, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

vcsexplorer11
For the record "eradicating" pitbulls or any kind of "viscious" breed is not the answer. It's educating potential dog owners about being responsibile. I am a dog lover and euthenizing a pitbull everytime it kills or mames a person is still not the answer.
I wasn't giving any "thumbs up" and I don't know how you got that out of my posting. It's not secret that pitbulls can be and are dangerous if not trained properly. And a child should never be left alone to play with a pitbull knowing what potential danger lies ahead. A dog with a reputation like it has should never be taken for granted. Knowledge is power! Someone else in these postings mentioned two kids were out walking their pitbull w/o a leash and it ran into the home of another neighbor and attacked the womans dog (I think killed it). That was mistake #2. Kids should not be left alone with a dog that doubly weighs more than them and is far stronger than them. The 13 year old that was "wrestling" with the dog to get him loose from the 5 year old was useless. He/she was fighting a losing battle in that situation. I am not so synical that I don't feel remorse for the loss of a child. The tragedy could have and should have been prevented had the parent been in close contact with her daughter and out of harms way of their pitbull. People who decide to become owners of pitbulls (or any known aggressive breed) should go through extensive training or something because these attacks won't go away until someone begins to take some hard responsibility because killing them is only putting a band aid on the real issue.

Posted by ca4ever on September 30, 2008 at 1:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Does anyone rememebr this?

It's not my fault," Knoller said in the TV interview that was played for the jury.

"Ms. Whipple had ample opportunity to move into her apartment. She could have just slammed the door shut."

"I would have."

This is from the lady whose pitbull killed 33-year-old Diane Whipple in San Francisco. The problem is, owners never take responsibilty, they always blame someone else

Posted by DrcGrl on September 30, 2008 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

[edit] Insurance problems
Many homeowners' insurance companies in the United States are reluctant to insure owners of dogs that are considered to be a dangerous breed. Allstate (depending on the state) may not insure homes with Pit Bulls or even Boxers, Akitas, Chow Chows, Dobermans, Rottweilers, or wolf hybrids. [44] The Automobile Club of Southern California will refuse to provide homeowner's insurance if a dog living in the home "looks like a Pit Bull".

Some insurance companies have taken a compromise position, and will only insure Pit Bull owners if their dogs have achieved a Canine Good Citizen award.

Posted by evergrafix on September 30, 2008 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pit Bulls are a constant problem and should be banned. Too bad that another innocent victim has lost her life due to the ignorant, self-centered actions of somebody that can't figure out that they ARE a deadly dog.
Our friend and her loving dog were attacked by a pitbull just this last Sunday at Leo Carillo State Beach. The pitbull ran about 100 yards across the campground just to attack them, unprovoked! The owner of that pitbull had rescued it from the animal shelter just last February. You wonder why it was in the animal shelter and why it was released back into the public!
The breed should be banned from public places, period.

Posted by Hernandez72 on September 30, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

People need to stop getting dogs for pets and start getting kitty cats! Poor little girl.

Posted by FormerNPer on September 30, 2008 at 1:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I love the comments of people saying they wouldn't trust their dogs around children. I would trust my Pug around any child. A child could be trying to poke his eyes out and he wouldn't do anything more than try to leave. He even likes his vet. My Boston was exactly the same way, until he was attacked by a Pit Bull. Thank god for his harness as the Pit got a hold of the harness, not him, but shook the snot out of him before my husband (who's over 6' and a cop) could get the dog off by some well placed kicks and a very good command voice.

I can't have the Boston around any other animals. I wouldn't trust him around anyone that might scare him, because he goes into a defensive mode. He even snapped at me when I approached him in the dark, while he was sleeping. He is convinced that he will be attacked at any given moment. He now gets along with NO other dogs, save the Pug he was raised with. This is something I have to live with because someone owned a nice, would never hurt anyone, family dog . . . Please!

It makes me furious that this dog ruined my dogs life. I can't even imagine the pain that the parents of Katya are going though. I will repeat, Google Pit Bull attacks, and any other breed you fancy. See what gets the most hits. Then add in those attacks not reported, because it was a family dog, their friends, their child and/or not severe. These dogs need to be illegal to breed. The Animal Control Office needs to pursue those people not following the fence, insurance and leash laws concerning these animals.

Good luck to all of you with "nice" family dogs. I hope they stay that way, but don't expect me to feel sorry for you if that isn't the case. You're more than likely going to get a, "See?? told you so."

BTW, the person saying it was a Mastiff is crazy, the picture clearly was a Pit Bull. Bull Mastiff's look a lot like Pug's only HUGE, there is very little way to confuse the two breeds.

Posted by Comments on September 30, 2008 at 2 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm so very sorry for the loss of this little girl. Katya was beautiful and I can only imagine the horror her family is experiencing. My sincere condolences to her family.

I am astounded by all the folks who come here defending pit bulls. The common mantras seem to be "it's not the dog, it's the owner's and the environment," "I'd never let my dog alone with a child (impyling it's a non-issue." I have respect for the dog owners who at least acknowledge that it's a potential issue and that their dogs are potentially lethal animals. Having said all that, I wonder why anyone would want to own a dog that might kill someone. I'm sure a loving environment is better than an abusive environment for a dog. However, it's no guarantee that the dog won't some day attack. Dogs (any dog) can and do attack all the time. Even the most docile of domesticated dogs will suddenly and seemingly out of character attack. So many also say that they'd never leave their dog alone with a child. Seems to me you recognize the danger then. What happens when the dog gets away from you? It happens. Dogs can overpower their owners and break away. Dogs can escpape from homes and yards. What then? You're seriously negligent and playing with fire since you know that your pet has no business being around children.

And, I agree that any dog has the potential to attack and to bite. I've seen the "sweetest" dogs do so many times in my life. Thankfully most dogs are small enough and not powerful enough to do the damage that a pit bull or other larger dog can do. I personally would not have a dog in the house with my 3 yr old. It's just plain irresponsible to me.

And, I'm in no way blaming the parents here. I believe that this was an unintended tragedgy and one of those "in the blink of an eye" things.

Posted by opns on September 30, 2008 at 2:13 p.m.

(This thread was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by Comments on September 30, 2008 at 2:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Holy crap OPNS, are you serious? Are you seriously that cruel? Your posts have been fewer lately and I was hoping it might be because you'd been banned. Seriously, there is absolutely no need to go and attack the mother of this child. What a heartless witch you are. And, your reading comprehension skills are also sorely lacking. Read the story again - get a tutor if necessary to help you - it's clear to me that this was an accident.

Posted by opns on September 30, 2008 at 2:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh, and Comments - this is not a blink of an eye thing accident. It probably took the child 3-4 min i'm sure to get there. Da_n right blame the parent. If people can't watch their children 24-7, then don't have children. why weren't the doors locked or the gates. Gate doors should be high enough for only an adult to get to. House doors should have hooks high enough for children not to at.

Posted by manolovta on September 30, 2008 at 2:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Rest in peace little Angel. My prayers to the family.

Posted by getoverit on September 30, 2008 at 2:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Does anyone know when the funeral is?

Posted by opns on September 30, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Comments, i sympathize with your opinion too - as a sympathize with the child. You have your opinions i have mine. There are just too too many neglectful people these days.

And where to do you get this (blink of an eye thing)? Good grief. This was no blink.

Posted by dse_kpa on September 30, 2008 at 2:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

opns: c'mon, now...was that necessary? have a heart for crying out loud. the parents are probably going through such a difficult time as it is from losing a 5 year old child who was practically new to this world...have some compassion.

Posted by opns on September 30, 2008 at 2:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My apologies - this just brought back a bad memory of a child who drowned by wandering off, as the parents put it - the parents in this story that i talk about were into drugs. Comments and dse_kpa, your right. my apologies to all for my words. Please forgive.
I use to babysit this 4 year old little girl that drowned, and it hurts to this day.
Apologies to family and deepest condolances and respect.
thank you comments and dse.

Posted by Minergirl on September 30, 2008 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why is the victim or the victims family being blamed? C'mom get real here . The dog is a killer and unfortantly if it was not that little girl it would of been another. Its not the parents fault. I can only imagine how upset they are. I pray that all the people that own PitBulls and are on this page defending them dont have this happen to them,there children, or a stranger. But I am sure we all will be saying, " I told you so........"

Posted by trek_queen on September 30, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Minergirl,

thanks for the information. my husband saw your comment above and was thinking your mother was the one on our street because we have seen the yorkies a few times at the house at the top of our street. Please let her there are those of us around who care.

Many times I and my dogs have been approached by unknown dogs that are not being supervised, left out without a leash, etc by very oblivious owners who have no control over their pets in our neighborhood. My yellow lab thinks everyone and anyone is her friend, including other dogs unless they sound vicious so she probably wouldn't know any better until it would be too late. I came to carrying a large stick with me while I walked her and the neighbors I often speak to would ask, "Why the stick?" I reply it is for Bad People and Bad Dogs. Now that we have our little beagle, it is a bit too difficult for me to walk both the pups together with my stick too and after the various incidents of other dogs out and about, I haven't been doing my walking route as of late.

I'll indeed speak with a number of the other neighbors. Many of us are not happy about how the neighborhood is turning lately.

Posted by rebel123 on September 30, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ca-4ever: Diane Whipple was killed by two Presa Canarios, not pit bulls. They are a Mastiff breed. Just keeping things straight here.

Posted by dhaylie on September 30, 2008 at 3:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Blah blah blah! Pit bulls ARE dangerous. No one can argue with that. You rarely hear about any other dog killing a child. We are talking about a beautiful little girl who probably just started kindergarten and loved to play with dolls. I could care less about the darn pit bull. It's just tragic and shouldn't have happened. So sad!

Posted by eclipsewatcher on September 30, 2008 at 3:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ca4ever: I believe the S.F. case involved a breed of dog called a “Pressa Canario” (sp). But I do remember the case and understand your point.

As I recall, the defendants in this case were particularly callous and blamed the 110-pound victim, Ms. Whipple, for this vicious attack that cost her her life. This poor woman was no match for two 150-pound Pressa Canarios, known by other neighbors to be vicious. I don't remember now what the final disposition of the defendants was, but hopefully they got what they deserved.

My heart goes out to Katya and her family.

Posted by allovernick on September 30, 2008 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

thank you knicole79 for taking the words right out of my mouth. i too own a female pit/rhodesian and she is absolutley loving. my husband and i are also professionals and have had dogs our whole lives. for those who say that people get pits as a status symbol are completley ridiculous! yes, i'm sure their are some people who do use them as a symbol and these idiots have no right owning any kind of animal. period!

its very sad and unfortunate as to what happened. my heart goes out to this family. bottom line is its the media who feeds on these stories and makes it seem like only pit bulls who attack. every dog, no matter what kind of breed is susceptible to attacking. their an animal its in them to be on guard when they feel threatened!

Posted by SoSad on September 30, 2008 at 3:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So horrible. I feel so bad for the little girl's family.

The neighbor was watching the dog for a friend?

Posted by SoSad on September 30, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Any dog can turn on you... even a sweet looking golden retriever.

Posted by ca4ever on September 30, 2008 at 3:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

rebel123 & eclipsewatcher - My bad, this whole time I thought it was pitbulls

Posted by FedUp on September 30, 2008 at 3:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

the woman was just sentenced to 15 years in prison for the death of Dianne Whipple. those dogs were owned and trained by a skinhead who was/is currently in prison. I believe he was represented by the ladies boyfriend who sold her out to save his own butt during the trial. either way, those dogs were trained to fight.

Posted by eclipsewatcher on September 30, 2008 at 3:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To my knowledge, the defendants in the S.F. case have never expressed a shred of remorse for what happened to Ms. Whipple.

Posted by devilangelhawk on September 30, 2008 at 3:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What about all these "parent's" that allow their children to run up to a leashed dog BEFORE asking permission to pet it?
Why can't the "parent's" teach their child how to approach a dog AND ASK if they may pet it?
Yea, the dog is leashed, but not all dog's that are out and about are properly socialized. They MAY attack a child that comes running up to them. I know I would persoanlly freak out if some adult came running up to me...
I own a German Shepherd. Unfortunatly with that comes the "OOOOO, police dog, it's cool, I am going to run up to it and pet it". It happens to me all the freaking time. And I pull my dog away and yell at the "parents" for not doing there job. AND usually, the "parent" has their back turned to their child...
It has been on rare occassions that a parents had grabbed their child and informed them the proper way to ask me, then I have no problem allowing them to play with my dog.

Posted by lawabider on September 30, 2008 at 3:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My little 9-pound teacup Yorkie could not and would not hurt a fly... The fact, according to my veterinarian, is that the genetic defect in the breeding of pit bulls is that their brain swells to a size larger than their skulls (genetic defect) -- the pain caused by the swelling (major headache) is what makes them turn mean... No amount of cuddling by the goodie-two-shoes herein who own the "sweetest, gentlest pit bull" will reverse this horrible affect. BAN BREEDING OF PIT BULLS NOW!!!!

Posted by devilangelhawk on September 30, 2008 at 3:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My apologies, but this was not about the parent's of this little angel.

It was an attempt to prove it is not alway's the dog's fault. Sometime's the child owner's ("parent's") have not properly done their job...

Posted by jill on September 30, 2008 at 4:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It should be a crime to continue to breed these dogs. Keeping the breed around is not worth it. There has been so many deaths and serious injuries, animal and human, from these dogs. No one can guarantee that their pitbull will not attack. The pound is brimming over with them. Breeding them is just a death sentence for most of them and dangerous for the community.

Posted by BeaHappi on September 30, 2008 at 4:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

devilangelhawk...great point. We've had dogs since before our kids were born and so they've grown up with them. Needless to say our children love dogs and are very comfortable with them.

But we have taught them that "not all dogs are created equal" and until you know that it's safe to pet a dog, you don't do it.

If I see someone with a dog I always ask if it's okay to pet the dog before just doing it.

But back to this story, I can't even imagine the grief that this family feels. They need our prayers and good thoughts, not judgements. This is truly heart-wrenching.

Posted by bugmenot on September 30, 2008 at 4:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i just came here to search for the word 'lipstick'. no results.

Posted by ReneR on September 30, 2008 at 4:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My sincere condolences to the Todesco family. Their courage in not laying blame, in this time of grief, is admirable. I always find it interesting to hear people voice their "strong" opinion on something they know little to nothing about. T.V. and other media outlets are not reality. The stories you hear are edited, re-edited and approved for the maximum reaction in order to charge exorbitant advertising fees. My own experiences are the only reality I accept. Negative pitbull stories feed ignorance and prejudice(as clearly evidenced here) which is what sells papers and gains viewership. I'm never suprised to find a retraction (i.e., wrong breed) later, because most people don't read or even know retractions exist. During the 40's the American Staffordshire (pitbull) was the family dog everyone had. The TV show Spanky and our Gang made them hugely popular. Much like the Beverly Hills Chihuahua movie when every stupid Paris Hilton want-to-be goes out and gets one. There are 305,000,000 people in this country. Dog attacks are statistically meaningless as a means of death. Your child is more likely to get kidnapped and killed by a psychopath than killed by a dog. For every story of a dog attack there are 100 more of dog heroism. Growing up, my dogs were my friends, family and protectors. They still are to this day. The Dutch Government just repealed a 23 year ban on pitbulls because they discovered dog biting reports statistically were unchanged. Denver is considering repealing their ban, as well. Prejudice against a breed, because of media hype, makes as much sense as ethnic racism. Seriously people, think out of the box.

Posted by lfunaiol on September 30, 2008 at 4:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

First, my deepest sympathies to Katya's family. I can't imagine the pain that you are going through. Second, please let me describe my male pit bull terrier. He is 9 years old. I have had him for 8 years after rescuing him from the animal shelter. I am an educated female with an advanced college degree. I did not adopt him as a status symbol. I just liked his sweet, calm temperment in the shelter. As a responsible pet owner, I immediately enrolled in obedience classes with him and made sure that he is well trained. He has earned titles in the sport of Agility. He lives with 3 other dogs and gets along well with them. He loves children and is gentle and extremely tolerant of my niece and nephew. As a responsible owner of a great dog, it BREAKS MY HEART when I see young "gang banger" types walking pit bulls down the street on chains! What an obvious sign of an uneducated dog owner. These are the kind of people raising unstable dogs and breeding unstable lines of aggresive pit bulls. If breeding was limited to responsible people breeding show quality, temperment tested dogs, we wouldn't have these problems. This area is full of idiots and unfortunately, they love the image of the vicious pit bull.

Posted by devilangelhawk on September 30, 2008 at 4:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

While larger dogs are more capable of killing due to size and strength, smaller dogs do attack as well. In this case, SIZE DOES MATTER.
While Pit's may have a more aggressive side, not ALL Pit's will attack.
I own a 75 lb German Shepherd, 35 lb terrier mix and 10 lb terrier mix. They are together at all times. German Shepherds have a bad rap as well, yet he has protected the smaller dogs and myself since they day we adopted him. He is other dog friendly and loves playing with kids.
Their is also a German Short Hair Pointer in the family. Supposedly great family dogs and amazing hunting dogs. She has bit me, my fiancé, attacked my German Shepherd and knocked my little terrier unconscious. The German Short Hair has papers and is pure bred…
It is the dog itself, and the owner’s. Bad ownership is a HUGE issue in Ventura County, and pure ignorance about dogs. I always have Dum**** people that approach my Shepherd while he is tied up in the back of my truck and pet him. WHO DOES THAT? If you do not know the dog, do not approach it, especially if the dog is alone.
You can’t automatically blame the dog. You do not know the dog’s entire history, from the second it was born and on…It may not even be the fault of the current owner. AND SOMETIMES it is not always the owners fault. My neighbors are constantly torturing my dogs with dog whistles, pounding on the fence, and hanging over the fence to taunt them.
There are some really sick people in this world.
I have seen kid’s alone with dogs. When they think they are not being watched they hit dogs, pull ears and tails, kick; kids do many things to dogs. Some dogs are raised to just deal with it knowing it is a child; while other dog’s were not. That is NOT the dog’s fault.
It is also more vicious of an attack on kids because of their size and height from the ground. Generally a 5 year olds face is level with a larger dog, such as a Pit’s. Therefore making it more vicious and even fatal.

RIP little one…

I should add, I have been bitten a few times. One was larger mut, about Pit size, one was a poddle, one was a Scottish Terrier and one was a Chi.All different dog's.
I have owned two Scottish Terriers, I grew up with them since I was little. I was not bit by any of the dog's I have owned.
Working in a Vet's Office, the smaller dogs were EXTREMELY aggressive, but of course due to their size they couldn't do much damage.
Everyone: You do not know the fact's. Do not blame the family, owner, little girl or the Pit. Once more information, CORRECR information is given, then all will know what happened.

Posted by mantiger808 on September 30, 2008 at 4:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

lawabider...shenanigans! That urban legend actually is atributed to the Doberman Pinscher. Any vet that tells you that is a quack...
Bully breeds are not for everyone. As I said earlier, I own a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Many people call him a pit bull but I correct them; he is in fact, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Centuries ago the English got their "jollys" in an event called bullbaiting. They used English Bulldogs. The dog would latch onto a bulls face and hang on trying to bring the bull down to the ground. They wnted a more agile dog so they bred the Bulldog with a Terrier, thus creating the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. When bullbaiting was outlawed, these dogs were infact used for dog fighting, another British "sport". Dog fighting was eventually outlawed also and the SBT eventually, over centuries of careful breeding became a family pet, loyal to a fault that would die for their owners, especially children. That is how they got the name "Nanny Dog". Again, this is only one of two breeds that can use the phrase, "good with children" in it's offical AKC / BKC description. I believe the other breed is the Pug.
DDX had to dig deep to find a story of an attack by a SBT. One account (on a human). I will personally put my dog up against any other dog in a test of temperment. These dogs are bred for temperment and agility.
Again I say to define a pit bull. most that are called pit bulls are mixed breeds which are responsible for the majority of dog attacks. The AKC recognized Bully breeds include the English SBT, the English Bulldog, and the American Staffordshire Terrier. Dogs that are bred to the standards of the AKC are less likely to bite than other dogs. That said, dogs have to be socialized just like humans. If not, they will be deviates of society...just like human sociopaths

Posted by WittyUserName on September 30, 2008 at 5:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I read a lot of the posts but not all. Not sure if this has been said. I do believe it depends on how a dog is raised but more than that, it depends on its blood line. I'm not an expert but if you raise a dog to be docile, they can still be aggressive because it is in their bloodlines. I would think a pit bull would be ok with families if it was a 4th or 5th generation 'well behaved' dog.

But even though that's what I think, I still wouldn't take the chance on a 10th generation. I agree with a number of posters - why take the chance?

Posted by bugmenot on September 30, 2008 at 5:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why take the chance??

Do you own a gun and keep it in your home? Why take a chance? How about sharp objects? Why take a chance? What about soft objects that could be lodged in a childs airway? Why take a chance? Do you see how absurd this gets?

What about other dogs? Who pays for the DNA tests to confirm a banned breed? Oversight? Regulation? Appeals?

Get real.

Why? Freedom to do as one pleases without adversely affecting others. That's why. Less laws, less government. Less things I "can't" do as told to me by my government.

To me, it's a bigger issue than a dog.

TO EACH THEIR OWN.

Posted by bugmenot on September 30, 2008 at 5:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Every law abiding citizen should demand that views from others shall not to be forced upon everybody.

In other news, stop signs should be banned as they kill people. Every law abiding citizen should demand the removal and safe disposal of all stop signs to avoid death.

http://www.khou.com/topstories/storie...

Posted by WittyUserName on September 30, 2008 at 5:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BUGMENOT
I'm not saying there needs to be legislation. I'm saying with small kids in the house, why take the chance? Yes, there are a lot of things around that can harm but a pit bull is a choice - to own at least. And I choose not to take the chance. I don't think that makes me a radical.
But as you say - to each his own.

Posted by maiooi on September 30, 2008 at 6:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

10,000x10,000 pit bulls are not worth the life of one person created in the image of God.
The earth was not created for animals but for man.
Human life has eternal potential.
I hope to see Katya in heaven.

Posted by Snafu on September 30, 2008 at 6:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey FedUp,

You wrote: "so now it is Kathy Jenks fault? sorry, I was unaware that she made the laws about the animals.

maybe if you actually spoke with your neighbors about the situation, it might get fixed.

stop blaming the dogs for having bad owners. and it is extremely unfortunate what happened. I could not even begin to imagine if I lost my daughter."

WE HAVE SPOKEN WITH THE NEIGHBORS! They basically said they don't give a d@mn and they can do whatever they please. It is Animal Control's responsibility to ENFORCE the laws, and Kathy Jenks heads that department. The dogs I spoke about are chained 24/7! That is against the law and animal control will not enforce the law. So, YES, I hold Kathy Jenks and her department responsible if something happens because they are not doing their job! As a taxpayer who pays her salary I DO have a say.

I'm not blaming the dogs--it's not their fault they have morons as owners. I'm not so ignorant to realize that ANY dog can be dangerous, however, dogs that are chained-up 24/7, not neutered, not exercised, and not socialized are an accident waiting to happen. I'm sure you'd have a different view if they were YOUR neighbors near YOUR children.

Posted by Tonic_Writes on September 30, 2008 at 6:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To all those saying pit bulls are inherently aggressive and that is why they are used for fighting: Not completely true. One reason the breed is popular for fighting and protection is because they are somewhat immune to pain. They just don't register it the same way which is why they will keep fighting when other breeds would lay down and stop. Please stop assuming agressive nature simply because of breed. This is a horrible situation. Don't let your toddler around a dog without supervision - PERIOD.

Posted by jill on September 30, 2008 at 6:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You can't blame Kathy Jenks on every animal problem out there. There's no way that they have enough manpower to solve every animal (make that "human") problem out there. I have run into so many situations where people are irresponsible for their dogs. There are just a lot of stupid, entitled people out there. They breed these dogs when there's already overpopulation, they don't socialize them, etc. If you own a dog, especially a dog capable of harming anyone or anything, you had better be sure your yard is secure. Keep your dogs in the backyard, too. I'm so tired of walking my dog and being startled by dogs coming out of open garages or front yards. But don't blame Kathy Jenks for everyone else's stupidity.

Posted by jill on September 30, 2008 at 6:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To the family of Katya,

My deepest sympathy goes out to you for the loss of your beautiful daughter. I can't imagine what you're going through. I'm so sorry that this happened.

Posted by cadillaczac on September 30, 2008 at 6:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There is no reason a ban should be put on this breed. Research has shown that more dog bites are caused by golden retrievers than pitbulls. It is a lack of responsibilty on the owners part that will determine the tempermant of their pet. It seems alot of you just want to jump to the conclusion that these dogs are vicious by breed but it is the humans interaction (or lack there of) that plays a role in the animals behavior. I have been around this breed along time and have seen both good and bad pitbulls. I have also been around alot of other breeds and have seen both good and bad dogs. It is impossible to single out this breed, any dog can be taught to attack a human.

Posted by Snafu on September 30, 2008 at 6:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't blame Kathy Jenks for every animal problem. Her department has visited this property numerous times, has evidence that the law is being broken, and she still doesn't do anything. They've already spent a disproportionate amount of manpower without any action. My tax dollars hard at work.

(Uh oh...gotta go feed my pet alligator, who is sweet as pie and wouldn't hurt a fly.)

Posted by JesusMalverde on September 30, 2008 at 6:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Cadillac-cite your source for your statistic. Also there is a substantial difference between a bite and what happened to this kid.

Posted by ironwoman on September 30, 2008 at 7:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What a beautiful little girl. I feel so badly for the family.

Posted by jill on September 30, 2008 at 7:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Cadillac, Pitbulls kill more people than any other dog. There's a huge difference between a bite and a mauling. You can't even compare the two. Any dog can bite, but pitbulls do far more damage and they don't let up. To stop breeding these dogs would be so worth the lives it would save, including the lives of all the pitbulls that get dumped at the pound. I was just there. Let me tell you, there's NO reason to breed them when there's so many getting euthanized. Pitbulls are a HUGE problem, and be it their fault or their owners' fault, it doesn't matter. A true dog/animal lover would agree that ALL breeding needs to stop. Every time you breed dogs, more dogs are put to death. It's pure greed.
In Hope: An Animal Shelter Story
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYBz2g...

Posted by Minerkitkat on September 30, 2008 at 9:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am the lady that lives on Lysander ave. The pitbull killed my little yorkie, Tinkerbell that night. The police where at my house when they got the call on the little girl. My heart goes out to her family. The pitbill that killed my dog knock down a baby gate that I just had put up. It grab her and took her into my livingroom as I tried everything to get her to let go of her. My other yorkie ran under the couch and saw the whole thing. He will never be the same. Two boys Jr high age where with this 7 mos old pitbull walking it to the dogs new home without a lease when it got into my house. The owner was moving and gave the dog to them. The first owner claimed him and had him put down. I was told if I would of crab my Tinkerbell that the pit would have gone for my face or neck and then still would of got Tinkerbell. This is the hardest thing I have ever gone threw. And I just want the pain to go away. The owner has moved so I do not know where I can find him. I think he should be paying for my loss, my vet bills for the other yorkie and my doctor bills. His name was not even on the police report. This dog was not on a lease...I thought we had a lease law. Don't you get a ticket if we drive without are seatbelts. I think these dogs should not be out of people houses or backyards. There is alot of campgrounds that do not allow them in....I wounder why All I keep saying why me. She was my baby and I took her everywhere with me. My prayers go out to the Todesco family

Posted by daltonemail on September 30, 2008 at 9:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

RE: my previous post, Posted by daltonemail on September 30, 2008 at 12:21 p.m.
and response to all the "doggie defenders."
My parents bred and raised German Shepards,& Pit Bulls. My husband and I owned and bred Rottweilers. Our dogs were always recognized as docile loving, family dogs. Dogs that would NEVER strike a hair on a human or animal. August 2007, our 11 year old, 130 pound male Rott, the "gentle giant" & his litter mate, a 95 pound female, were playing ball with my husband, myself and numerous adult family members. Our dogs were "certified" good citizens, approved by our insurance company, and completed thousands upon thousands of dollars of specialized "social and interpersonal" training with people and other animals. EVERY attempt was made to ensure that they were safe in EVERY regard and provided them a loving and caring home. While playing ball, our 18 month old nephew decided to crawl instead of walk...The dogs no longer viewed him as a family member playing ball, but, rather as "prey." Our "gentle giant" followed his instincts...and then his sister responded in a way that was completely and totally UNIMAGINABLE, or PREDICTABLE. We had been convinced and assured in all the actions we had taken that these were our loving, gentle family dogs. Thankfully, we were all there to intercede. However, and I emphasize this, it took several of us to get the dogs to back off. Thank GOD we were all there.
My point is this...we truly LOVED and believed our Rotties were the exception to the rule of aggressive dog breeds and failed. Our dogs were raised in a loving, caring home by owners that understood and accepted the responsibility in owning a breed with a "bad rap." We were also convinced that our loving dogs would benefit the breed reputation as they "were" so docile and loving. When we were able to grasp the reality of what happened (within 48 hours), we contacted EVERY agency and rescue to determine what we did wrong and what our alternatives were. There was not ONE agency (Rott, Pitt or otherwise)that would accept our dogs as rescues. They could not deny that their behavior WAS predictable. AND regardless of our efforts... prevented. The botton line in all recommendations from ALL the agencies was to euthanize our beloved pets.
We did this very sadly. Folks, no animal is worth the life of a human. No where, no how, NONE...and we LOVE our animals. Each time we look at our nephew, we count our blessings ten-fold, and thank God and all the wise people with whom we consulted in our difficult decision. In retrospect, if we are all truly HONEST as "aggressive breed" owners, there are those "cute" little personality quirks that we write off as quirks and laugh. Quite frankly we should reconsider and evaluate. those "quirks" as they are merely little smoke puffs smoldering in and in warning of a bigger fire that is brewing within.

Posted by daltonemail on September 30, 2008 at 9:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

cadillaczac re: "There is no reason a ban should be put on this breed. Research has shown that more dog bites are caused by golden retrievers than pitbulls"

OK, I will give you the whole golden retriever comment (because they bite & have killed too) but my review of fatal dog bites show the Pit Bull as a large if not the largest offender:

http://www.dogsbite.org/bite-fataliti...
Basic, verified facts.

Yes, you are right that other breeds aggressive and otherwise have bitten and killed. But, not as much as Pitts and other aggressive breeds. FYI,and as I am sure you will point out... there is a case of a Jack Russell & Chihuahua, so small dog "defenders" be aware.
Also, per my EARLIER blog, please note which K-9 has the largest UNCLAIMED population at VC Animal Control...hmmmm? Would it be the Pitt Bull? Yes. Wonder why they were picked up, turned in and not claimed?
Also note, with all the aggressive breed dogs a "home inspection maybe/will be required" prior to adoption approval. Maybe the current owners know the dogs are "potentially" aggressive AND that they do not provide proper care, and caution in owning such an animal? One has to wonder why we these poor animals are not claimed? And, BTW why SO MANY Pitts are at Animal Copntrol? Bad luck for the breed? Check it out...maybe you or someone you know may want to adopt one of these dogs that shouldn't be banned:

http://www.countyofventura.org/animal...

Not trying to be critical...just the facts. PS, make sure you get the full backround on the dog before adopting.

Posted by jill on September 30, 2008 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Minerkitkat,

I am so sorry about your Yorkie. I can't imagine the horror and pain you've gone through. The first day I moved into a rental, we put my smaller dog in the backyard. Two pitbulls from next door amazingly squeezed between a block wall and a pole for the back cyclone fence and attacked my dog. My mom and sister managed to get them off of my dog and then the owner came over and told me his pitbulls were "good dogs". My poor dog had blood in his urine but eventually recovered. And to think I almost left him in the backyard while I went to pick up another load of boxes. He would have been dead for sure. I hope that you can find out who this owner is. My heart goes out to you. That never should have happened to your Yorkie or Katya. It's about time for some tough laws and punishment in the area of irresponsible dog owners. My thoughts are with you. Take care.

Posted by monroe12470 on October 1, 2008 at 4:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It is very , very sad what happened to this poor 5-year old girl . She should have never been near this dog PERIOD !You Never leave A young child alone I don't want to make the poor parents feel any worse . It is not JUST pitbulls. Other dogs attack , they just like pointing fingers at pitbulls and making sure it makes news ! I feel that NO they should not be outlawed ,they should be regulated . They are not BAD DOGS , just bad owners . They need A LOT of attention like a child always though . And always tying them up is a big no no . That is cruelty! If someone thinks they want a pitbull and feel they are willing to spend , love , teach , train a pit bull then go for it . Pick up a book and do research on their breed , who they are , what they are . Understand them . You the human HAS to be the alpha dog , not them . They want to know they belong and are loved . They have to know they are part of the Family your human family . I have two pitbulls , one is 1.5 yrs and my other one is 5 months old . It takes a lot of work that will never end . We may train them but they need to be watched always . If we leave , someone usually will be here with them . There is four of us who usually handle them . Pitbulls ARE NOT bad dogs !!! I Love them and make sure they know . People say negatives things about them , that is their opinion , but I have experience with them and they know thier place . Again to the parents , I am so very sorry!! My Condolences .

Posted by jwdough on October 1, 2008 at 7:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm so sorry for this family. I just do not understand why this breed is allowed to flourish in our country. How many babies have to die? No, it's not the dogs' fault, it's humans. We have done this to those dogs and now we need to make it right.

Posted by Jeanine1975 on October 1, 2008 at 8:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The ignorance of those calling for banning the American Pit Bull Terrier as pets is truly overwhelming. The perpetrating dog was a mixed breed of unknown origins. This behavior is not indicative to pit bulls. Of course, those that lack critical thinking skills would believe anything they see on television. Pit bulls are wonderful family pets (remember the Little Rascals?). I suggest you visit the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) website for further information.

Posted by stonelink on October 1, 2008 at 9 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I volunteer at a local animal shelter and frequently work with pit breeds. ALL dogs need training and leadership from their owners, but pit breeds need this type of owner involvement more than many other breeds. Too often people adopt cute little pit puppies without any idea about the pit's energy level, intelligence, and need for a pack leader. When these untrained puppies get bigger, they become unruly and destructive. Imagine having a bored self-centered teen ager living in your house who has not been given any discipline. You'd have a big problem on your hands. But that's what people do with their dogs. No rules, no boundaries, no training, no activities, and then they are stunned when the dog becomes aggressive. It's not the dog's fault or the fault of the breed. Owners of dominant breeds need to learn how to channel their dog's energy. Just like owners of herding breeds, hunting breeds, small prey breeds etc. I personally have been seriously bitten by a German Shepherd, a Lab and a Jack Russell terrier. Should we ban all of these dogs too? No. People who own dogs (ANY dogs!) need to take responsibility to walk them, train them and watch them. That's where legislative efforts should be focused: educating people about how to raise well adjusted dogs and putting the punishment for not doing this on the owners, not the breeds.

Posted by bsnsmn on October 1, 2008 at 9:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My condolences to the family and the owner of the dog, they all must be absolutely horrified by this.

I grew up with a male pit-bull, at 10 y/o I was playing with him everyday, we never had any issues with him and also didn't understand what we had as far as the characteristics of the breed. One day we had to euthanize him though as he had attacked and killed a neighbors cow! We lived in Idaho in a ranching area, never kept the dog in a fenced yard as we didn't see the need, our closest neighbor was 4 miles away. All it took was that one time, we were very ignorant about the facts of that breed which puts the blame on us, not the dog. We were certainly not the type that should have owned a pit-bull either as we, like most present day owners, did not take the time to familiarize ourselves with the breed.
On another side, my friend had a female pit and she was the sweetest most playful dog I had ever been around, he did it right with raising her and did it with children around too..never any issues. Sadly though, one day someone let her out of the house and did not realize it and she was hit by a car and died.

Again, it's not the breeds fault. We have laws that most pet owners ignore. The majority that own pits for the wrong reason are also the same ones that ignore the laws and will allow their dogs to breed by not getting them "fixed", they don't want to spend the $ on it. If only the State would enforce licensing and some sort of "ownership" training we might not have these incidents as much and the breed would not have such a bad reputation. The only breed that should have the finger pointed at is the human breed.

Posted by trek_queen on October 1, 2008 at 9:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Minerkitkat,

That is terrible to hear. Do you know what house the owner of the dog used to live in before he moved? The other neighbors might have an idea and it wouldn't hurt to ask around. Obviously the people who were getting the dog (the kids' family) from him should know some information at least. I'm getting together with my neighbors who once ran the neighborhood watch in our neighborhood and seeing if they might know who those involved are.

Posted by okteamroper77 on October 1, 2008 at 9:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My heart goes out to family, and freinds in this time of mourning. And the concern the community has when it come to dogs that attack... However I have raised several Pit Bulls and American Staffordshire terriors and not Once has 1 of them been aggressive or had an ill temperment. I do beleive the owners should take the responsibility to propperly train and handle their dogs no matter what the breed. So stop blaming the DOGS BREED and place the BLAME where it needs to be on the OWNERS that impropperly raise and handle their dogs...

Posted by NightLight on October 1, 2008 at 9:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't think there is any disagreement that pit bulls are potentially more dangerous than most other breeds of dogs because of their inherent strength and the way they are built. I also don't think there is any disagreement that a poorly cared for or improperly trained pit bull is extremely dangerous to people and other animals.

Why do so many people insist on having them when there are so many other breeds of dogs available? It just seems to me that the potential downside/danger of having such a dog should far outweigh the benefits of having one.

Gang bangers aside, I just don't understand the appeal of pit bulls to educated, responsible pet owners. I can understand being attached to an individual dog you've rescued and raised, but as far as the breed itself, why would you want a pit bull over another kind of dog?

Posted by Minerkitkat on October 1, 2008 at 9:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To trek_queen. yes I do know where the dog came from 2188 Athens. The family that was taking the dog lives on Lysander in a yellow two story. I think they still have the pitbulls doghouse in front of there gate. They are renters, I am sure the owner did not know they where getting a pitbull. The first owner told me this dog would not hurt anybody or anything that they have two little dogs, And these boys had him out everyday on a lease taking him for a walk and he seemed to love kids. My dog was not even near the door when this happened she was in my living room, a place you think would be safe. Before he came to my house he tried to get into the neighbors house then ran over to mine. Thanks for trying to get info for me.

Posted by tmh83 on October 1, 2008 at 10:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

First, do you think the family who was pet sitting would have offered to pet sit this pit bull if they knew that he was capable of this? Furthermore, do you think that the pits owner was a firm believer, just like all you pit owners, that this dog could never hurt a soul? The point is that pit bulls have a tendency of changing their temperament without warning. The people who are against anyone owning pit bulls are trying to make this point. And like I stated above, you hear about more deaths due to pit bulls.

When people are blaming children and parents who let their children run up to dogs on a leash to pet them is insane. Why would you have your dog out (on a leash or not) if they are not good with other people? This does not make any sense and your arguments don't make sense. I don't care how educated you are or how many degrees you have, this does not make you a dog expert. I am educated too, however, I do not recall taking "how to know what dogs think 101."

Posted by trek_queen on October 1, 2008 at 10:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks, Minerkitkat. I know the yellow two-story you are talking about... I typically walk my dogs across the street from it since we're further down on the other side with our back wall against Madera. During my same walk I believe I have seen your pups too hanging out when we go by. It is not a good sign the dog seemed to want to get into people's houses and I think those people who were the 'new' owners shouldn't have a dog if they don't even know what they are bringing home let alone not using a leash!

There are a few other houses to watch out for, just in case you're interested. Feel free to email me: trekqueen@gmail.com

Posted by exheaven1 on October 1, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is sad. I was watching Dog Town a few days ago, and they are handling the Michael Vick dogs which were all pit bulls. They are able to rehabilitate these dogs for the most part, but they were saying that it is actually the public that has transformed the perception of pit bulls. By public, I mean mostly people who are involved in dog fighting or those who just simply train their pits to be mean attack dogs. But they were also saying back in the days pits were considered as the "American" dog per commercials, ads, etc. They used to show them in ads with kids and what not. But anyway, I digress, this is an awful story, my thoughts are with the family.

Posted by jill on October 1, 2008 at 11:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by Jeanine1975 on October 1, 2008 at 8:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"The ignorance of those calling for banning the American Pit Bull Terrier as pets is truly overwhelming. The perpetrating dog was a mixed breed of unknown origins. This behavior is not indicative to pit bulls. Of course, those that lack critical thinking skills would believe anything they see on television. Pit bulls are wonderful family pets (remember the Little Rascals?). I suggest you visit the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) website for further information."

Well, the American Pitbull causes more deaths per year than any other breed, so I don't think it is so shocking that people would want them banned as pets. I say let responsible dog owners keep their pitbulls that they already own, but ban the breeding of them and require that all pitbulls are fixed. Human lives are more important than keeping this breed around. Especially, like I said before, when pitbulls are being euthanized every day.

Posted by ValerinaS on October 1, 2008 at 12:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My sincerest condolences to the family. What a horrible tragedy.

It is a fact that pit bulls are outlawed in England. They can snap at any moment, no matter how they were raised. Studies have been done that show pit bulls raised in the best of homes have snapped and turned deadly. They were bred to fight, it's their instinct. You can't suppress it, as is shown all the time. You can't ignore the statistics, you can't ignore the evidence. As a parent, I would NEVER allow my 3-year old to play with a pitbull, a rottweiler, a doberman, ANY dog that has been known to attack, that may have been mistreated, etc., and I cannot for the LIFE of me understand why anyone, especially with children, would own one. It's really just asking for it.

If you look at any animal shelter, pit bulls take up the majority of the space. It's tragic. I love animals, I've owned and bred AKC line Boxers (even though we gave them a good home and found good homes to put them in, there was NO way I was keeping them when I found out I was pregnant), but I truly believe this is a species of dog that needs to be put to rest and eliminated.

My heart goes out to the family. It's so tragic and so sad, and so could have been avoided. People defending the pit bull, how can you when faced with a five year old's death???? If you can't see the pointlessness here, then you're completely inhuman.

Posted by axel718 on October 1, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

THE DOG WAS NOT A PIT BULL, IT WAS A BULL MASTIFF.

N_CASH...First of all police departments do not make or pass laws, they enforce them. It you want to complain to someone about feeding the crows then call the city council. They are the ones that came up with it. If someone suffers a dog bite it is not a crime. There are other circumstances that have to be met before it can even be considered a crime. Again if you want to know more call Animal Control / Regulations. If you want to point the finger at someone at least know where you need to point it first.

Posted by jill on October 1, 2008 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ValerinaS and NCash,

I agree with all your points. Some idiots get militant about their right to subject innocent people and animals to their dangerous pitbulls. It's hard to fathom that way of thinking.

Posted by irude1369 on October 1, 2008 at 4:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

may god bless the todesco family in this tragic time... thank you for your strength and kindness to turn your loss into the gift of life for others.... may your daughters spirit shine in those who receive this ultimate gift of life

Posted by PleaseCare on October 1, 2008 at 4:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This was a terrible incident and may God comfort everybody involved in what led to the death of beautiful innocent Katya.

Please PLEASE always keep your placid dogs on a leash each and every time they exit your front door or yard gate with you. I'm a responsible dog owner and cannot walk my own rescue dog because decent and kind neighbors let their unleashed adult dogs frolic for fun in their front yards. My dog may be slightly over one year old and there is no record of his history. Rescue dogs are a challenge--but patience and kindness go a long way. Still, one always errors on the side of caution because there is no history.

Please don't deny those of us who face a bit more of a challenge the right to walk & exercise our dogs (who REALLY need this outlet) on our residenial streets---because your dogs are "safe" and not a worry/threat to anybody. Where does that put rescue dogs who are always leashed and need to get out too?

Everybody should work together to give ALL dogs a chance to get a breath of fresh air & thrive. What happens if your "great" dog comes up to my Pitbull mix and I cannot control a fight which may or may not take place? Is this my fault? This is the same type of no win situation that keeps all dogs from sharing what they all deserve: A refreshing walk on the street. If you want to avoid a neighbor with his dog, you BOTH have them on leashes. Please think about all your great dogs before you make it harder on those of us who are trying very hard to give our "viscious rotten killer blood thirsty" dogs a decent life.

I inherited a nasty-tempered Lhasa Apso that I tip toe around when she's "in a mood" and have far more fear of her than my large Pitbull mix. Of course, one would be crazy not to fear the sheer power of these larger dogs, but not their souls. I trust Caesar Milan would say the same. View DOG TOWN -- Friday p.m.'s -- NAT GEO - CH 73 - Time Warner Cable.

Let's use good sense at all times. Please walk your TWO dogs on leashes---many don't---I assume because the dogs pull too hard, yet are gentle by nature, so it's easier on you? Please consider how this affects everybody. Thank you.

Posted by interested on October 1, 2008 at 4:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why didn't the person who was dog-sitting inform the motherof this little girl that a strange dog was in the backyard? It seems to me the dog sitter should have prevented the children from going in the backyard, especially since the dog was not hers and she probably didn't know its temperment as well.

Posted by irude1369 on October 1, 2008 at 5:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is not the time or place for any of you to argue, comment or place blame. Find another website to vent on. Let this family grieve in peace.

Posted by tyenee82 on October 1, 2008 at 5:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I want to express my condolences to her family and friends. This was a tragic accident. I want to say to the people who feel that their pits are safe and great with their children....i wish you couldve been there to see her....I was.
It has changed my life and my attitude towards all dogs. Dogs will bite, but pits hold on for dear life until they themselves are dead or their prey. This little girl was his prey that night. So please let this be a lesson, to protect our babies. It was the most horrifying thing that i have ever seen......and i dont want this to happen to you.

Posted by Hueneme1961 on October 1, 2008 at 8:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

my condolences to her family and friends. so sad

Posted by FormerNPer on October 1, 2008 at 8:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

axel1718

The dog was a Pit Bull. There was a picture of it before they replaced the picture with a sweet picture of the baby that was killed by it. You can keep saying it was a Bull Mastiff, but you are ill informed. There is a huge difference between a Pit and a Mastiff, look them both up. You'd have to be an idiot to confuse the two, especially when there was a picture of a brindle colored pit bull plain as day staring back at you.

Posted by FormerNPer on October 1, 2008 at 8:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I correct my comment. The picture of the dog is in the other article. http://www.venturacountystar.com/news... If that is a Bull Mastiff my Pug is a Great Dane.

That is a picture of a Pit Bull. No if's, ands or buts, about it.

Posted by birdflewfast on October 2, 2008 at 2:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Since January 1, 2006 and today, pit bulls have killed 49 Americans. They are accountable for 58% of all fatalities in this time period. Enough said!
http://www.dogsbite.org/blog-dog-bite...

Posted by suusan on October 2, 2008 at 7:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Enough with these Pit Bulls. So sorry for those who love this breed. They need to be outlawed because they are unpredictable. They may be sweet to you but if our children are at risk that is a chance we are not willing to take. I think that while someone up there in charge of protecting our city figures out how to get these animals outlawed we ( the community) should at least be notified of where these animals redise, like we do with the sex offenders. That way we can at least be aware of the risk in our own neighborhood. I choose not to own a pit bull. I should not have to assume the risk of you owning one! May this little girl's family find strength and peace throughout such a difficult time.

Posted by mantiger808 on October 2, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

FormerNPer, you validate my point...This image is clearly a mixed breed dog. It could very well be a labrador retriever mixed with dachsund, yet it is called a "pit bull". The fact is that most attacks and deaths attributed to "pitbulls" are actually mixed breed dogs. Pit bull is not a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club. If you look at the terrier group you will see three dogs that are mistakenly called pit bulls: the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Bull Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Of all these "pitbull" attacks and deaths, I challenge you to show any by one of these AKC recognized breeds. http://www.akc.org/breeds/terrier_gro...
The truth is that if a dog has short hair and a short nose, he is automatically called a pit bull.
The problem is irresponsible breeding. AKC breeds are bred over decades and even centuries for temperment. Don't get me wrong, any breed has the potential to attack or turn on it's owner or especially a child. These instances are very rare. The fact is, most of these attacks are by mixed breed dogs branded "pit bulls". The lesson here is, if you are not an AKC breeder, spay or nueter your dog!

Posted by pagaroffinn on October 2, 2008 at 11:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I just sent this letter to my representivive in the State Assembly and I hope others will do the same. It is not enough to voice your anger here. In order to get things done the law makers need to know exactly how we feel.

Dear Ms. Strickland,

Last week a first grade girl who is in the same glass as our son was brutally attacked and killed by a Pit Bull. There is a full article about it in the Ventura County Star, which I hope you or someone in your staff will take time to read. I also hope that time will be taken to read all of the reader responses to that article.
We are so quick to pass laws and punish the pedophiles that kill our children, but no one wants to address the issue of these Pill Bulls.
I love dogs and have had different dogs in my family for as long as I can remember (I'm 41 now) so it is safe to say that I am a dog lover. Some of those who wish to defend these dogs say that it is the owners fault that the dogs are bad because of the way that they were raised. That is as far from the truth as possible. These dogs are not robots that have bad programming or some kind of computer virus, they are just plain bad from birth. Of all the dogs I have owned I have seen that they have very distinct personalities. Some where good, kind, and loving, but others where downright crazy. The same owner with all of the same techniques for raising dogs yet so many different outcomes.
Plain and simple these dogs need to be outlawed and soon. I do not like the idea of euthanizing anyones family dog, but I value a human life much more, especially the life of a young child that should have had so much to do in this life. Please do something about this and champion this issue!

Posted by axel718 on October 2, 2008 at 1:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

N_cash.....I am not here to defend a 5 year old being killed by any type of dog and if you believe that you are a bigger idiot then I thought. What I said was that a dog biting someone is not a crime unless other circumstances are met.

FormerNper.....the dog was registered as a bull mastiff. Ask animal control for the paperwork. So i think that you are misinformed. Just because a mixed breed dog looks like one type of dog doesnt mean it is.

Posted by vceader on October 2, 2008 at 1:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We are all very sorry that this little girl is gone. Thankfully her parents were kind enough to donate her organs and give other children a chance to now live healthy lives in spite of this tragic loss.

I have to condem those of you however that are on the witch hunt to exterminate dogs you know nothing about.

The dog in this incident was a mixed breed. A hybrid mix. Not a pure bred American Pitbull Terrier. What was it mixed with? Only the owner may know. Yet you're all screaming for the death and banning of "Pitbulls". Some even want to see the owner dead.

"The owner should be euthanized. Now." - Camman1

Educate yourselves about the topic. Stop with the mob mentality.

The term "Pitbull" is a blanket label given by the media and the uneduated to several different types of dogs, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, Bull Terrier (Spuds McKenzie), Argentine Dogo, Old English Bulldog, Bull Mastiff, Cane Corso, Blue Paul etc..

These are all dogs in the Molosser and Mastiff family of dogs. The "American Pitbull Terrier" falls in one of these families, but is not a known violent dog. But for some reason you all still label these dogs as being "Pitbulls".

Many of the dogs you read about or dogs that are fought for sport in the ring are back yard inbred hybrids of these pure breeds which they characteristically represent. The inbreeding alone is enough to destabilize any breed entirely.

When you have puppies who's mother and father are father and daughter, sister and brother, grandfather and granddaughter or any mixing of the sort you are bound to have abnormalities over time. Including those which may be mental.

People who breed these dogs for sale or for sport often inbreed these animals for desired sizes, colors and temperment and many are 3rd, 4th, or 5th generation inbred. Many are left in small cages or small dog runs their entire lives and never get socialized with anyone outside of their handlers residence. So it is no surprise that when one of these animals gets lose you hear about it on the news.

If you want to ban something, ban puppy mills. Require all legitimate breeders of ANY DOG SPECIES to register with the local animal control center. Animal control and ASPC should be allowed to access the premises where these dogs are kept at anytime for review to ensure the dogs are not being bred to fight or being bred in harsh conditions. The animals should have blood tests to determine paternity and be micro chipped with this data. Owners should face steep fines for inbreeding.

Posted by hurdledude on October 2, 2008 at 2:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

you all need to get off your high and mighty horse. i have a pit mix and he is a great dog. very playfull and friendly. and no, i don't have him as a sign of status or protecion even though a pitbull would be a great dog for any single woman walking the streets. you must understand that any dog has the potential of snapping. it is the fault of owners in terms of how these dogs act since it is mostly idiots who want a mean tough dog that train them to be mean and give this breed a bad name. it makes me sad when these dogs are euthanized. i thought it wasn't an eye for an eye. i do see the value of a dogs life and a humans as equal

Posted by devilangelhawk on October 2, 2008 at 4:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pagaroffinn & those writting letters:

Why not write a letter about banning Rot’s, German Shepherd’s, etc? They all bite, they have all attacked, and the larger breed dog’s will bite VERY hard. If you get German Shepherd’s banned; you ban the dog that saved my nephews life, that curls up with me when I have had a bad day, that sleeps while my little 8 lb terrier licks his ears.
What about Cujo? Why not ban Saint Bernard’s? That breed has rescued thousands of people. Cujo got rabies and snapped…turned on his owner. Saint Bernard’s are in the Mastiff group…that makes them bad in your eyes; at least according to your prejudice against certain breeds.
My nephew bit me and drew blood when he was a child (I have the scar to prove it)…should he be euthanized? My little 8 lb terrier bit me when we first adopted him (he was rescued from a puppy mill), should I have him euthanized for being scared and reacting naturally? If your brand new AST (American Staffordshire Terrier) puppy bites you (remember, we are talking about an untrained, 8 week old puppy here) should he/she be euthanized for not knowing better and reacting naturally? My Iguana bit me, should I have her put down? Why not take a step further and ban Iguana’s as pet’s? Why not just eradicate the entire species?

Vceader:

Very well said. You are educated when it comes to dog’s. I am glad to see that! I will agree with you on all aspect’s, especially dealing with puppy mills, backyard breeder’s, etc. They should be fined and a license should be required to breed animal’s.

My fiancé owned an AST, and it was the most loyal dog he had when he was growing up. He was also very responsible with his dog, and knew exactly what his dog (like any other dog) was capable of.
We plan on adopting an AST, we also plan on having children. We are also responsible, do our research and know we are capable of raising a dog. We also know what a dog is capable of, and expect the unexpected. All dog’s are still wild creature’s; your pompom, chi, yorkie still have wild tendencies. All dog’s mark territory.
I spend hours on a daily basis with my dog’s, my neighbors do not spend any time with their dog’s. What is the difference? My dog’s are well behaved, but my neighbors dogs bark at everything and try to attack us thru the fence(they have a poodle, a pit and a mutt).
My German Shepherd loves my nephew and nieces. He loves my two smaller terriers and was trained to be submissive to them. He play fights with them ALL day long, and no issue arises because he knows to be careful due to their size. He got the proper training from us. I also trust in his protectiveness in all of us…he, again, was trained correctly. He is also a rescue from the shelter. He was abused, and neglected. We took the proper measures, and now he is not the same dog!

Posted by jill on October 2, 2008 at 6 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yeah, two of my neighbors said their pitbulls and American bulldog were "nice dogs." Yet all three dogs on two separate occasions burst out of their yards and attacked my leashed dog as I was walking it. My hand was injured trying to pull the American bulldog's mouth off my dog's face as its owner was responding to my and my dog's screams in slow motion. And she totally minimized the attack with a stupid smile on her face. "Oh, he was just trying to jump on her." When it was a full-on attack. Typical attitude of these dog owners.

So whatever you want to call these dogs, pitbull mix, American bulldog, whatever, the bottom line is they are unpredictable and powerful no matter what their stupid, irresponsible owners say. The proof is in the recorded attacks. They are No. 1 when it comes to human fatalities. And I am sick and tired of being afraid to walk my dog because people don't keep their dangerous dogs in their backyards.

Posted by devilangelhawk on October 2, 2008 at 6:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jill:

ANY dog can attack you and your dog. My neighbors Chow continously attacks myself, my family and my dogs...A Chow is not any form of a bully breed...

You say it right here:

"no matter what their stupid, irresponsible owners say."
- It is the owner's.

And also:

"And I am sick and tired of being afraid to walk my dog because people don't keep their dangerous dogs in their backyards."
- Any dog will attack you, ALL dog's are unpredictable. Sadly, you must carry mace with you or a taser becasue so many dog owners are irresponsible. I would be more afraid of a Chow any day over a bully breed.

Posted by devilangelhawk on October 2, 2008 at 7:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It is either "pit bull", or "bully mix". Saying "pit bull mix" is redundant.

Is it really that hard for you to read?

A pit bull is not an AST, or American Bull Dog, etc. Look it up at the AKC's website and read about each dog...it really is not that hard.

Your constant reminder's that your lacking in the education needed to understand dog's is apparent...you do not need to keep reminding some of us.

I will make it easy on all of you…

From the AKC:

“Their considerable dimensions and strength alone, however, make many working dogs unsuitable as pets for average families.” “They have been invaluable assets to man throughout the ages.”
- Rot’s, Dobie’s and Mastiff’s fall in this category.

“All breeds share the fabulous ability to control the movement of other animals.” “The vast majority of Herding dogs, as household pets, never cross paths with a farm animal. Nevertheless, pure instinct prompts many of these dogs to gently herd their owners, especially the children of the family. In general, these intelligent dogs make excellent companions and respond beautifully to training exercises.”
- German Shepherds and Bouvier des Flandres fall in this category. If you search both, you will find many dog attack’s by these two breeds.

“Energetic and fun-loving, the breed is very fond of children once a relationship is established. He is a loyal family pet and a good guard dog, the ideal choice for many families.”
- This is speaking of the German Shepherd.

“Terriers typically have little tolerance for other animals, including other dogs. Their ancestors were bred to hunt and kill vermin. Many continue to project the attitude that they're always eager for a spirited argument.”
-That includes the American Staffordshire Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. This is true with the majority of terrier’s. I know, I have had terrier’s my entire life!

“Temperament
From the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage, high intelligence, and tenacity. This, coupled with its affection for its friends, and children in particular, its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability, makes it a foremost all-purpose dog.”

People just do not do their research…

Posted by jill on October 2, 2008 at 7:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

devilangelhawk,

Yes, it's true that any dog can attack, but pitbulls are the number-one breed in human fatalities well above the other breeds. So you can try and defend them all you want, but those statistics say it all. Other dogs have gone after my dog, but never did damage like the pits and American bulldog. They were the only ones that required trips to the vet. Pits just don't let up, latch on with their massage jaws and are too strong to pull off.

You are right that it is the owners' fault, but you can't regulate people. The only thing left is to regulate, that is stop, the breeding of this dangerous breed. As I said before, it will stop many needless human deaths and also stop the countless pitbulls that are dumped off at the pound and euthanized.

Posted by jill on October 2, 2008 at 7:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I meant to type "massive jaws" in my post above.

Posted by devilangelhawk on October 2, 2008 at 7:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pagaroffinn:

“Some of those who wish to defend these dogs say that it is the owners fault that the dogs are bad because of the way that they were raised. That is as far from the truth as possible. These dogs are not robots that have bad programming or some kind of computer virus, they are just plain bad from birth. Of all the dogs I have owned I have seen that they have very distinct personalities. Some where good, kind, and loving, but others where downright crazy. The same owner with all of the same techniques for raising dogs yet so many different outcomes.”

Some passages from your own letter:

“Some of those who wish to defend these dogs say that it is the owners fault that the dogs are bad because of the way that they were raised. That is as far from the truth as possible.”

AND

“they are just plain bad from birth”…

AND

“Some where good, kind, and loving, but others where downright crazy. The same owner with all of the same techniques for raising dogs yet so many different outcomes.” (That was from your own letter about yourself)

You completely contradicted yourself in your own letter to the representative in the State Assembly…and now on here. You just said it yourself…

IT IS THE OWNER’S!!!

And as a bit of help, next time have some one proof read your letter before looking like a fool.

Posted by devilangelhawk on October 2, 2008 at 7:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Statistically, “pit bulls” may be the no. 1 killer dog, but how was that statistic created?

Take apart the statistic:

Pit Bulls have taken off as a very popular dog for guarding and as a status symbol (especially in low income families) which means, as a percentile goes, it is a VERY common dog at this time. Especially in areas, such as ours and the south.

It is the equivalent of saying pretzel’s are the no. 1 choking hazard among snacking adults because they are so darn popular.

Do you realize you are doing more damage by trying to pulls the jaws off? That only causes the dog to, not only clamp down harder, but cause more ripping damage.

Posted by jill on October 2, 2008 at 9:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, devilangelhawk, let me tell you a little bit about statistics. They happen to take that into account. Otherwise, they wouldn't be statistics. Right? Uh, that's how statistics work. So your pretzel analogy is quite silly.

You say that I'm doing more damage by trying to pulls the jaws off and it only causes the dog to not only clamp down harder, but cause more ripping damage. So enlighten me. Next time my dog gets attacked my a pitbull, besides the pepper spray I am purchasing, do I just sit there and watch? Hitting and kicking won't work. I'm not an expert in prying pitbulls off of my dog. But, then again, that is something that nobody should even have to worry about.

Posted by devilangelhawk on October 2, 2008 at 10:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, Jill…

Statistically speaking. no one should have to worry about being attacked by a pit bull in the first place, statistically speaking it is about as likely as being attacked by a shark. Shark attacks of course being the hypothetical statistic everyone uses along with being struck by lightning. There have been over five hundred dog attack deaths…oh yes, since 1963. If we further knock down that number and focus on how many of those were pit bulls in the last five years (under 100) we would see that statistically speaking it’s incredibly rare to have a fatal or even dangerous pit bull attack. As for statistics, if you don’t think critically about a statistic you might end up with a false perception of reality, which clearly you do. Are you worried about the remote possibility of a hummingbird plunging into your eye, or perchance a rabid gopher digging through your living room floor and maiming the ferns? I happen to have excellent statistics that when properly cooked will petrify you.

In the VERY rare occasion that your dog or yourself MAY get attacked by a pit bull (again in your case), the best way to stop the attack is to defintaly not kick it or hit. Again, that will perpetuate the situation. I know this may be hard to fathom, but try not to let it clamp down or bite, get in the way and keep moving (some people find this hard to take in, but I would do it for ANY of my dog’s). NEVER RUN OR TURN YOUR BACK!

Posted by redd49 on October 2, 2008 at 11:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why is animal control/police protecting pit bulls, and ultimately protecting the dog fighters and breeders?

Did they refuse to report to protect the pit bulls' "reputation?"

This dog should have been deemed dangerous when it killed the neighbor's dog. That is how dogs that kill children start- they attack other pets.

By failing to act, this AC Jenks set the stage for this girl's death. He has some blame for this.

And it is a disgrace that Jenks is blaming the victim.

Pit bulls are bred to be aggressive, they have a high prey drive, and unless animal control deals properly with dangerous dogs, then Animal Control is ultimately to blame for the deaths.

I would hope that this girls' family has an attorney who will go to the source of the problem- an Animal Control officer who failed to do his job and protect the public.

His failure led to the death of that poor girl.

Posted by redd49 on October 2, 2008 at 11:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

And all those "Responsible Dog Owner" groups and the rest that produce the propaganda about pit bulls are BREEDER organizations that make a lot of money breeding, selling, yes even fighting these dogs.

They will make up any story they can to protect their financial interests in these dogs. And laws and restrictions will hurt their breeding/fighting income!

Posted by ReadABook on October 3, 2008 at 3:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Silly, silly, ignorant people. The folks that are defending the breed are not taking SIDES against that poor girl. They are just trying to make a point, albeit very poorly.

Breed specific legislation, a law that would make owning pit bulls illegal, is dangerous to people and, most importantly, to children.

Those of you that are old enough, think back 20 to 30 years or even more. Were pit bulls making headlines then? If you go back 100 years, you will find that people were being mauled by bloodhounds, then there was a time when newfoundlands were the big fear, then the doberman (notorious because Nazis used them in concentration camps), even German shepherds make the list (although that didn't last long due to the infamous Rin Tin Tin). I could go on and on. Each breed was, for some years, the one most likely to bite because that was the breed that was popular AT THE TIME.

Therefore, getting rid of all pit bulls will not stop or even LESSEN the number of attacks. There will just be another breed making headlines because the problem lies with PEOPLE. People who don't know how to tell if their dog (of any breed) is a potential danger, people who chain their dogs, neglect or abuse them.

Go back and read the story but replace the pit bull name with ANY other breed. Does it make it less tragic? Would her parents be any less heartbroken? Would you be any less outraged?

In order to protect our children we must do so by using our heads and finding the root of the problem. It's the PEOPLE.

Make the connection.

Posted by mommainthe805 on October 3, 2008 at 10:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Our neighbor always plays with his dog in his front yard and though my kids don't play in the front yard, only in the back, I do have to walk to the car with them...I don't promote my kids to be scared of dogs, but they are not allowed to pet or run up to random dogs. My point I'm getting to is that you may think your dog is wonderful and cute but I don't. I don't want it jumping on my, I don't want to observe it's tricks, I just don't want it near me. I love animals and wouldn't wish anyhthing bad on someones lil pet but I can't stnd going places (parks, ect) where ANY dog is off it's leash and it's owners are proudly running around wiht it. I don't let my kids bug people, because not all people are fond of random kids. Don't let your dog have a chance to jump on me, and especially the chance to bite my kids...
when my baby was born, we had a medium sized australian shephard and I didn't let her bother other people, and I was VERY CAUTIOUS and didn't let her even near my baby, which probably looked like a baby rabbit or something. Be smart people.

Posted by jill on October 3, 2008 at 10:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

well devilangelhawk...

So far in my lifetime (almost 50 years) I haven't been attacked by a shark or had a hummingbird fly into my eye or any of the other assnine possibilities you mentioned, but my dog has been viciously attacked by three pitbulls in a five-year period, so what is your point?

Posted by pagaroffinn on October 3, 2008 at 12:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

devilangelhawk,

Sinse you clearly can't understand what I wrote in my letter I can see why you have such a hard time with this issue.

All other defenders,

I know some of you out there love your "Pit Bull" or "Mix" or whatever you want to call your beloved friend who "saved" your life or licks your ears. I will not debate that some of them are very good dogs. The problem is that too many of that "TYPE" of dog are attacking without provocation.

Some say the solution is to have dog owners who are lisenced to handle these dogs. Fine, but lisencing guns have not kept guns out of the hands of bad people. There is a constitutional right to bare arms, but there is no constitutional right to own a dangerous animal.

You go on and on about how good your dogs are or you want to debate what is or is not a pit bull, but you avoid the issue all together because your emotions are tied up in your animal.

I own a corgy mix and our family loves him as if he were one of us, but if it was determined that his breeding made him more suseptable than other dogs to attack without provocation I would remove him from my house in a heartbeat for the sake of safety to my children.

Now if your dog is more important to you than your family members, friends, and neighbors then good for you. If the day ever comes when your dog is one of the percentage that attacks, I hope you'll feel some sense of guilt and concern rather than stand there and tell the victim how kind and loving your dog normally is.

Bottom line... The protection of Human life should be the number one concern to anyone even if that means making a personal sacrifice.

Posted by alexa_m on October 3, 2008 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My heart and prayers go out to this little girl and her family. What a loss :(

I think people should be very careful when they have dogs around children. Those are 2 things that don't mix.

Posted by calisurf on October 3, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Animals are animals, everyone should watch small children around any kind of animal period. Cats bite, Snakes bite, birds bite, all animals bite. Granted its the size and the jaw structure of pits that make their attacks more dangerous. Its how you raise the dog, not the breed. Its the owners of the dogs who should be at fault. People forget that because Pits are looked at as a breed namely for protection there are numerous people who take advantage of the dogs desire to please the owner and train them to attack. You should Never leave your children alone with a small or large dog especially one they dont know and teach your children that not all dogs are friendly. I have grown up with Pits and I think they are some of the best dogs I have ever been around. To get rid of the breed as a whole is a ridiculous comment. I suppose we should then get rid of sharks and cars as well because they too hurt children.

Posted by graceka on October 3, 2008 at 3:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow. I can't believe all the comments here about the dog. "Pits are dangerous" blah blah blah. Ok. We get it! But this isn't a forum about freakin dogs! This is a tragic accident! What about the girl?? Barely a handful of comments here to go around for prayers to the grieving family and friends. My friend and her family have known the Todesco's for years. Her daughter spent time with Katya. They played together. Were friends with the little girl. My friend read all these comments last night, and you cannot believe how they all upset her to no degree. It upsets ME!! I WILL give my heart and prayers to this family who has just gone through hell for the past week. Rest In Peace, Katya. We Love You!

Posted by kshorton on October 3, 2008 at 4:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Having a pitbull is like having an unpredictable wild animal. One lives next door to me. It was trained to kill other dogs in Mexico. It grabbed the dog in the backyard behind it by the neck, as they were both jumping up on the fence. It pulled the dog into it's back yard and almost killed it. $2,500.00 dollar later, the dog made it. I live in fear of my five young boys dying because of this dog. When will they leave the door open and... opps, my mistake, your child is dead! I have a right to live in a safe neighborhood. My neighbor takes away my peace and replaces it with fear for my children's life. I have called animal control and there is nothing they can do if he hasn't bit my children. The dog is kept under tight eye by the owner, however, I've seen the door left open and the dog has been in my front yard 3 times. I told animal control and they just warn the neighbor, calling him a gentlemen, and that he has done nothing wrong. "He has done something wrong to have such a dangerous dog that has the potential of killing!"

Posted by jill on October 3, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

kshorten,

You might have seen my previous post where my next-door neighbor's two pits broke into my backyard and would have killed my dog if my family didn't intervene. Please get ahold of Ventura County Animal Control and file a formal complaint. This is another tragedy waiting to happen. These idiot, irresponsible dog owners need to be stopped. It's amazing. They leave their garages and front doors open and really don't care at all that they're putting other people and dogs at risk.

Posted by devilangelhawk on October 3, 2008 at 4:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My apologies Jill, the rest of the comment did not post.

Another good way is to punch the dog in the nose. Usually this works only if the dog has already clamped down...but you can attempt it if you have good aim.
Make a fist, and have someone much stronger than you punch the top of your hand…it hurts like H***.
Same thing with a dog, the nose is the most sensitive part. You can also (now this may gross you out) jab a finger or stick up the dogs nose. That very front flap they have is for protection and once you go behind it, the dog will reel in pain. With all this said…all dogs are different, it really depends on the specific dog. One dog may react to the nose punch, another may not.

Please clarify, your dog was attacked three DIFFERENT times or was attacked by three pit bulls at once?

Good question to ask about why your dog keeps getting attacked (and I ask that you be honest), have you had your dog fixed? If not, their is your answer and I can give you some info on free clinics.

Posted by devilangelhawk on October 3, 2008 at 4:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"These idiot, irresponsible dog owners need to be stopped. It's amazing. They leave their garages and front doors open and really don't care at all that they're putting other people and dogs at risk."

Jill:

I agree with you, and then they will not take responsibility. The dogs most likely are not even registered with the pound...who knows if they even have their shots.

That is how my neighbor is with their Chow (was mentioned in another one of my posts). The dog has NEVER seen a leash, and when it attacked myself and my Shepherd, she called us Pieces of S***...It blew my mind.

It is those bad owner's that give other's a bad name...

Posted by jill on October 3, 2008 at 4:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

graceka,

I have given my condolences to Katya's family as many on this board have done. It's just that we don't want this to happen to anyone else and are hoping to get through to dog owners who don't take their dangerous dogs seriously. I can't even stand to look at Katya's beautiful face and think about what happened to her. I cannot imagine what her family is going through. I am truly sorry if any of my posts were upsetting to you and your friend. The real tragedy here is the loss of a young life. I will not be posting anymore about dogs. My heart goes out to all of Katya's loved ones. I am so very sorry about your loss.

Posted by jill on October 3, 2008 at 6:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

devilangelhawk,

I promised the lady above that I would not be posting about dogs anymore as this family has suffered an unimaginable loss of a child, the worst thing that could happen to anyone. But I will just tell you that my dog is fixed and very docile, minds its own business. Doesn't even bark. These pitbulls ran into my backyard straight to my dog, and the American bulldog came barreling across the street from its front yard. That said, I'm going to stop posting about dogs. A young life was needlessly lost here. That should be the focus of these posts. Katya, rest in peace Beautiful Angel.

Be safe.

Posted by powtsie on October 4, 2008 at 8:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am sorry to see that this young beautiful girl died such an aweful death. However being a Pitbull owner for most of my adult life, it is not the dog itself. Owners need to take resposibility of there dog. Spending time with them and not making them mean by feeding them glass, tabasco, and well you get the picture. You can make any breed of dog mean. I feel that it is all the cross breeding and the jerks like the Michael Vicks in this world that give this breed a bad rap.

Posted by opns on October 4, 2008 at 8:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To the family - my prayers have been with you. I pray for peace in your hearts during this time of grief.
Respectfully

Posted by redd49 on October 4, 2008 at 4:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The people against breed specific legislation are the BREEDERS, dog fighters, rescue businesses and all the others that make a lot of (untaxed) money from these dogs.

They will say anything to keep on doing and try to convince the naive that breed specific laws are "bad"

Posted by AnnaWhaat on October 4, 2008 at 8:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GitRdone, I agree! If I knew the people whose house I was visiting had a pitbull in thier backyard there is no way in He**, I would let my child back there. And I don't want to be blaming the parents, I am sure they are suffering enough. But if this story saves one child its worth every comment.
mischif77 ,Yes any dog can bite and be dangerous. The difference is the PITBULL goes for death................not just a nip or bite.

Posted by eitman on October 5, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

FOR KATYA
May you find a place in heaven high.
May you take your family's pain away.
May you know the flight that angels fly,
And soar above our sorrowed day.

May you pull up sadness like a flower,
And plant it in some far-off place.
May your touch heal hearts' and saints' desire,
And kindness be your saving grace.

Sweet angel, sing a timeless song,
And keep the rhythm in our soul.
So far away, yet close and strong,
We miss you here. We love you so.

Posted by randyvild on October 5, 2008 at 1:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This precious girl's memorial video can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NZ7QD...

Posted by aroseoce on October 6, 2008 at 1:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

the only reason why pitbulls are the number one dogs that attack humans, is because idiots buy them because of the way they look after you crop their ears and tails, then treat them like crap... obviously that would turn any dog into a killer.
I absolutely hate pets, i think it's a waste of money. But i honestly believe their behavior is a result of their environments. My mom has a pitbull, she got her when she was a puppy and i invite everyone of you to see her. She has been baby'd her whole life, pampered and treated like a child. She is the biggest wimp i have ever seen. when she takes a walk, she freaks out and my mom ends up carrying her, literally, in her arms the rest of the way. she gets the hickups when she's nervous. i know another pitbull that opens presents on his birthday.
any dog can attack a human, but it's the idiot owners fault for training them to be vicious.

Posted by redd49 on October 6, 2008 at 5:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pit bulls have been bred for hundreds of years specifically to be aggressive.

They were bred to have high prey drive for the fighting pit.

Many of the pit bulls that have killed and mauled have never been abused or mistreated.

Posted by AnnaWhaat on October 6, 2008 at 7:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

redd49, I agree, just because a bitbull hasn't bit yet does not mean it wont in the future. They are KNOWN to turn on even thier owners!

Posted by douthink on October 6, 2008 at 1:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why do people insist on condemning the American Pit Bull Terrier when in all likelihood the 'pit bull' in most attacks is not even related to the APBT breed? Checkout the UKC's official breed description then see if you can correctly identify the Pit Bull.

From the United Kennel Club (http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/Br...):
The essential characteristics of the American Pit Bull Terrier are strength, confidence, and zest for life. This breed is eager to please and brimming over with enthusiasm. APBTs make excellent family companions and have always been noted for their love of children. Because most APBTs exhibit some level of dog aggression and because of its powerful physique, the APBT requires an owner who will carefully socialize and obedience train the dog. The breed's natural agility makes it one of the most capable canine climbers so good fencing is a must for this breed. The APBT is not the best choice for a guard dog since they are extremely friendly, even with strangers. Aggressive behavior toward humans is uncharacteristic of the breed and highly undesirable. This breed does very well in performance events because of its high level of intelligence and its willingness to work.

Can you find the real Pit Bull?
http://www.pitbullsontheweb.com/petbu...

Posted by skatinghailey on October 6, 2008 at 4:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My dog bites. He wears a muzzle in public or when others are around.

It is a plastic cage muzzle that covers the dog's entire mouth, yet allows the dog to pant, drink water, and even take small treats.

For some strange reason, these humane muzzles aren't sold in any major pet stores in town. The only place I could find one in Ventura was at The Inquisitive Canine, off Market. (www.theinquisitivecanine.com)

My dog was abused and has bitten here in Ventura. He is the love of my life, and I work hard on his training. But I never know when something will set him off, scare him, and trigger his biting behavior.

People give me dirty looks when they see the muzzle. They say, "Aww, poor little doggy. How is he going to be able to play ball with that muzzle on?" I don't get it. To me, it's the greatest gift I could give him... a second chance to be out in public, interacting with the world and playing, while protecting him and everyone around him.

I'm told that in San Francisco, you can even bring your dog on the MUNI if he/she is wearing one of these plastic cage muzzles.

We should push for our pet stores to carry these! They are much more humane than all the other muzzles out there, and they work. The other muzzles are more for grooming, don't allow the dog to open the mouth enough to pant and stay healthy, or are very uncomfortable for the dog.

I say let's take care of each other, think progressively, and use these humane muzzles on our dogs.

Posted by opns on October 6, 2008 at 4:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"My dog bites. He wears a muzzle in public or when others are around."
WOW!!!! Crazy.

Posted by skatinghailey on October 6, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

He doesn't bite constantly and froth at the mouth, it's just something he has done before. You'd never guess he's capable of it if you saw him. He's actually a total love bug, and the life of every party. All the kids I babysit adore him, muzzle and all.

He was abused, he is recovering, and I have the resources to be responsible about giving him a second chance. Dogs are not for everyone. And all dogs bite, you guys. Please, don't forget that. You just never know.

I'm really impressed with this forum and all the people who've taken the time to talk about this. It shows how much we care about our community, how much love we have for the victims of this awful tragedy, and how seriously we take safety. Keep it up everyone... and tell your friends about plastic cage muzzles.

Posted by saosin0919 on October 8, 2008 at 11:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hi everone. Im doing a college report contrasting weather pit bulls should be illegal or weather it should be a decision left to owners. Im trying to get opinions from local Ventura county residents on both sides of the issue. If you have any opinions or statements you feel strongly about regarding this issue please email me at saosin0919@gmail.com. I need them by the end of this weekend so please if you have a moment to spare help me out. It would help me out alot even if you have something little to say about it. Thanks everyone

Posted by opns on October 8, 2008 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

skatinghailey - Your definately in control - good for you.

Anna - I ditto your comments.

Posted by bobfalfa on January 8, 2009 at 2:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

the dog in the picture certainly looks like a pitbull. pitbulls are reg'd with the ukc and abda. american staffordshire terriers are the show version of a pitbull reg'd with the akc, while the ukc consists of working line pitbulls. the abda are fighting line pitbulls. pick up any dogfancy or dogworld magazine and look at all the breeders of pitbulls, along with the numerous backyard breeders. the point is many of these dogs are owned by lowlifes who chain them out, etc and aren't responsible. that is not a bullmastiff. we know breeders of pitbulls for over 40 yrs and they can tell you every line out there, and that dog can pass for any of their dogs. now could it be a slight mix, yes, but to say that a pitbull is not a breed is laughable. the akc registers the staffordshire bull terrier, english bull terrier, and american staffordshire terrier. there are other registeries besides the akc. many rare and working breeds do not want to be reg'd with the akc as it's primarily for showing. a show akc lab is not a field bred lab, both akc reg'd but totally different lines. you have the dog of choice for "tough guys" now, and it's a problem, deal with it and quit making excuses.

Posted by mostfiercemommy on February 23, 2009 at 4:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am having to look for a home for my Staffordshire due to my landlord's default and having to find a new place to live. Due to insurance these dogs are not allowed and in looking for new home for him I stumbled across this article.. I had to leave my comment.
Outlawing is a stupid idea! Prohibition anyone???
Secondly let me speak for those responsible dog owners who raise their dogs right and keep new people and their separate and always supervise,
it is not the breed it's the owner and the"pitbull" gets more hype but let me tell you my chihuahua is more likely to bite a stranger than my Lab or my Staffy.
It saddens me that people who are uneducated get dogs they are not prepared to care for.
It makes it hard for doggies like my Petey to live the lives they deserve. I have small children and I allow interaction as I have taught both my children and my dogs well and I supervise as should be done with any dog.
I hope we don't start outlawing races of people again then maybe you might know what its like to be judged by human mistakes.