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Ask the Vet: guard dogs

Submitted by Scout_the_blogg... on Fri, 2008-06-27 16:07.

Q.  We had a home burglary not long ago, and the cop who took a report suggested getting a dog.  I'd like to know a vet's feelings on that topic.

A.  I think a dog is a great deterrent for unwanted guests. Some of my clients have large growling/barking dogs and have never experienced a burglary. Even a barking Chihuahua may work; the bark can be as bad as a bite.

But be aware there are some potential liability issues if your "guard dog" bites someone who is not breaking into your house.  But in my opinion, having a dog that is protective of its environment is worth having around the home.

                                                                               -- Rob Santos, DVM 

Dr. Rob Santos and Dr. Brandon Barrett of Monte Vista Small Animal Hospital will answer a general interest question from The Hive every week. You can email your question to mshea@modbee.com or post one below.

 

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Rockstargirl68's picture

doggies

Submitted by Rockstargirl68 on Fri, 2008-06-27 22:20.
are much more alert to other  people places or things then we are. My dog alerts me to everything good or bad and I am so glad because I am a woman living alone and I couldn't do it without a dog. I don't know if he has prevented any burglaries but being made aware of things is a big help. One time he heard my neighbors fighting that I didn't hear at night and helped to alert me to call 911 before anyone was seriously hurt and I found out later that guns were involved. So I say get a dog but one you will love and take care of like part of the family--he will be a better watch dog when he is not just put on a chain
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jheaton's picture

Never

Submitted by jheaton on Sat, 2008-06-28 23:31.

Post a sign that states "Beware of Dog." This is setting the owner up for legal problems if the pooch bites someone. I have been asked by some neighbors if my dogs bite or if they are mean. I always answer that they are protective of me and my property.

 Never tell anyone that you do not know that your dogs do not bite or that they only look mean. It is sort of like giving your alarm code to a thief!

If everything isn't black and white, I say, 'Why the hell not?'
John Wayne

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When asked if my dogs bite,

Submitted by peacelover on Sun, 2008-06-29 06:02.

When asked if my dogs bite, I say HELL YES!

Mr. Peacelover and I noticed that one of our dog's mood improved immensely once we moved away from our crime-ridden Modesto neighborhood.  What we hypothosized is that she was probably on-guard 24/7 for three years!  Now, she can finally relax and enjoy being a dog in a home where she is loved more than anything, where her biggest worry is when she'll get another home-baked cheese pop doggie treat!

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