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Screen door no match for some dogs


Published October 27, 2004

Re: Dog walk turns ugly as pit bulls burst free,


-- Sept. 29.

People need to realize a latched screen door will not hold back a dog. According to the veterinarian I talked with, some dogs simply dislike other dogs, especially small ones. Humans trying to protect their dogs put themselves at risk.

I had a similar experience several years ago with a St. Bernard. Neither my dog nor I was seriously injured, but it was a miracle we weren't, as I was upended and flung to the pavement.

It's not enough that the dog is usually a gentle, loving pet around his family. He may still harbor a hatred for other dogs, especially if near his territory.

A regulation banning open doors with only a screen door closed deserves consideration, especially if the animal inside has an attack history. For very hot weather, a reinforced screen door with a high gate might be allowed.


-- Thelma Riley, Gulfport
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