You've Got Our Attention
You wouldn’t think we were a relatively drama-free family right now. Perhaps there is a drama balance somewhat similar to karma and we’ve become imbalanced or otherwise too content. If so, apparently we required a sudden glut, like water through a broken levee, to bring us right with the drama god.
Madison, our family dog, and I were attacked by two pit bulls this morning. No less than three days after our home was burglarized. It was horrific, terrifying and humbling. It was enraging, miserable and sad. It was time consuming and expensive!
This morning after my run (#1103), I got home and grabbed Madison for my regular dual purpose cool-down / doggy-daughter time and not a full minute after heading out did a pair of dirty pit bulls come tearing around the corner making a beeline for the two of us. Ashley and I had seen these dogs out earlier and unfortunately strays are extremely common in our area so this sighting was routine. In fact so much so that I’ve seriously considered starting a non-profit group to aid in the collection of these poor animals. I have animal control on speed dial and they know who I am because of the number of dogs I have caught, found, trapped or otherwise been forced to deal with. Usually there is no issue with these loose dogs. They are typically solo, seeking a pack, weak, hungry and lonely. They usually present no danger and often follow us out and home. I’m always cautious but find myself complacent in the deeply bred nature of these animals. Not anymore. Not these dogs.
The attackers lost no time sizing Madison up and moving in for the throat. I, an individual who loves his dog as his child, intervened knowing full well the risk. In fact, know now all you who might suggest I ever do otherwise: I was fully aware of the situation, had the wherewithal to know the risk and consciously decide to act. I knew what I was doing, I chose to do it despite the risk and I’ll do it a 1000 more times without hesitation.
In brief summary, a good Samaritan witnessed the attack and called the police on my behalf. Another neighbor’s dog broke free of his confines and rushed to our defense (the first time I have ever been glad for incompetent dog owners). Another neighbor hurried to help chase the dogs away. The police, fire department and animal control arrived. I went into a mild shock, my blood pressure dropped, I went blind, threw up and then pulled it together with help after I was taken inside to cool down. It was about 100 degrees outside and I, lying bleeding on hot concrete, adrenaline rushing, exhausted and dehydrated after my earlier run had nothing left in the tank. At this point, at my side with pride, Madison was taking better care of me than I of her. We confirmed my health and well being after some time and the paramedics finally left Madison and I to get to our doctors.
Before the day could really begin though I needed to confirm the identity of the attackers. You see, it turns out the dogs belong to our neighbors across the street and three doors down. The female is in heat and the male territorial and protective. It was a simple matter of dogs being dogs and dog owners being ridiculously incompetent and irresponsible. Once chased away the dogs returned home and were easily followed. The police and animal control had no problem retrieving them. Once confirmed, they were transported to holding where they will be quarantined for 10 days. After that, I don’t know.
In an unexpected turn, while I was waiting on animal control to bring me the dogs to identify, the owner of the pit bulls came over to apologize directly in person. I was quite proud of my composure. I allowed her to speak her peace and I gave her no relief of guilt. She left in tears, thoughtfully and authentically regretful, verbally thankful that Madison wasn’t Aiden (or any other small child) and I’m certain an otherwise unchanged person, fully capable of resuming the same irresponsibility demonstrated today.
Once free of the insanity of my neighborhood I was able to attend to the very most important issue of the day: mending myself and my baby girl. About 50 miles, $400, 2 shots, 6 prescriptions, a few rolls of gauze and 5 hours later we were finally treated and home.
Thankfully, all injuries turned out to be somewhat superficial, thus the quick turnaround. However, the distance of the wounds to Madison’s jugular are far too close for comfort. If the intervening neighbors dog hadn’t caused a distraction I fear it would have been way worse…
Again, I consider us all very fortunate. Things could have gone so much worse. I’m grateful, we were finally able to hear the drama lords and the desire they have for us to move away from this place before anything truly serious happens. You hear that Gaia!? You’ve got our attention! We’re getting the hell out of here!
Comments? I’ve cross-posted like crazy: Delirious Visions Blog and The Crossman Family Blog