Cops just want to shoot something. There was no need for this. I've see alot of dog fights and have never shot one. Over reaction by the cops for sure. How many times did they shoot the dogs.50 or more.

But this is the "Standard Operating Procedure" in the War on Drugs (and some Plants)! SWAT will wait until 2:00am, bust down the door, shoot any dogs, and then hope that they didn't get the wrong address! They will then ruin peoples lives with asset confiscation and jail time because it is easier and less dangerous to bust non-violent drug users than catching violent criminals doing violent crimes! They even shot the Mayor's dogs in one town!

Maybe we should register police, do a background check to see if their stable enuf to hold this position.... since they seem to be more dangerous than the weapons they carry....

There have been an increasing number of incidents like this. Police should be subjected to mandatory training regarding how to handle situations involving animals, as opposed to simply whipping out their guns and shooting. They are a disgrace to their badges, and good police officers everywhere. Serve and protect, don't blindly kill animals. This should be regarded as abuse, they should be charged, and never be allowed to serve on the police force again. Assign them volunteer work in a shelter... without weapons on them.

The cops were protecting people in the area from getting bitten. They are trained to shoot until the threat stops. NOT to shoot one round and wait to see what happens before shooting another round.

They did the right thing.

It appears that the cops are already starting to inforce the soon to be U.S. Slogan....

"Comply or Die"

I'm sorry, normally i support the Police because of their job. But i am sorry. there was ZERO reason for this to have happened. Suspend or fire all of them. This is a pathetic excuse for Police enforcement.

The cops were protecting people in the area from getting bitten. They are trained to shoot until the threat stops.

Oh really? Protecting people? A few more feet and we would have had Sandy Hook Redux, but this time perpetrated by someone licensed by the State of PA.

Their actions were idiotic and they did the wrong thing. They shouldn't be allowed to wear a badge let alone be armed with the lawful right to kill.

Couldn't they have just pepper sprayed them?

Any police officer in this area does submit to a background check as well as ref checks. I would think it would be the same in most if not all towns/cities. Also, around here any time the gun is discharged for any reason a report is written. They cant just randomly shoot stuff and not have to answer to anyone. As a animal lover I am upset they choose to kill the dogs. I dont see how dogs contained in the back of a truck fighting is such a threat to the public that they felt this was needed. On the other hand if I saw a dog killing another dog I would probably shoot the one I felt was causing the fight. I would not shoot both dogs but who knows if that is even possible as they are fighting. We are mising a big chunk of this story.

Hey Ant... You are so wrong!

If this happened in NYC nine bystanders would have been shot along with the dogs.

Those dogs were not armed, what were they thinking? if the government wants to disarm the public then they better disarm the cops too or they will be shooting everyone they see. this is the kind of overreaction that you can expect from trigger happy rookies. a sample of how they will treat the public and as long as we won't have guns then they wont need guns right? right! Ive seen this overseas it can happen here as well.

I've separated 2 pit-bulls fighting before, all you need is your hands and some balls.

Chester Police showing how the NRA idea of armed personnel at every school can result in some very unsavory behavior.

If the larger dog would've killed the smaller dog, the result would've been 1/2 as bad as human intervention, in this case. Those involved with this idiotic event need to be canned!

Lunkystraydog, exactly!

Frickin cowboys. Most of these cops should not be working in that profession.

NJMom don't kid yourself, it is not very difficult to become an officer, especially some city cop. I've known a lot of guys that ended up cops, and that is the last job those guys should have been involved with. I've went to school with some guys that ended up becoming cops, and believe me, they should not be !

I've posted on here before about the story of one of my "friends", not really a friend but more of just someone I know through a friend, I heard him say one day on the way to his police job, "I wonder who I get to beat up today", true story, I'm not making this stuff up. That guy is a city officer in the town I live in, scary. Most people who get into that profession do it for the wrong reasons. They have some chip on their shoulder or they want a job with some action, some "excitement", meaning they want to be violent.

Joshua Charles ToboltVIA FACEBOOK

I'm sorry, normally i support the Police because of their job. But i am sorry. there was ZERO reason for this to have happened. Suspend or fire all of them. This is a pathetic excuse for Police enforcement.

_____________________________________________________________________________

So Josh were you actually there to see that there was ZERO reason for this to happen? Or did you watch the same worthless, grainy video that I did and assumed? We can't see what's going on in the back of that truck, whether the dogs would be getting out of it, or whether anyone would be in immediate danger by them. Also, we don't know how long this had been going on before the video started. But go on and be an armchair critic because that is all some of you can contribute to society. But I'm not going to take some random guys word for it based on his grainy 30 second video.

Don't you feel better that the American citizens' rights in regards to guns are being restricted, but not police officers?

The one dog minding his own business attacked by a stray dog, required some assistance so the police shot him? to protect and serve has taken on a new meaning. have these officers been evaluated should they be allowed to have guns? if the policy is to shoot both victim and perpetrator then that will take a big bite out of crime no one will dare leave their home.

Yeah G-Man, wow you're a bright one aren't you?

All I can say is that if a stray dog jumps into MY pickup and starts fighting with MY dog, the cops better not shoot MY dog, or I'll be shoting a few cops. This was reprehensible behavior. A billy club to the head will stop the fight in it's tracks. Well trained cops. When in doubt, shoot the @!$%# out of it!

Really makes one feel safe. Shoot 'em all and sort it out later. Doesn't matter who is the attacker or who was attacked. Property was destroyed in the process? Oh well. Do all you anti-gun libs really feel safe with these guys "protecting" you? I'll pass on this type of protection, thanks!

Accidentally liked G-Man's comment when it's quite moronic. Meant to like the comment above that. So ignore, no one likes the comment.

I think some people are confused. Bullets dont fly around randomly they go the direction the gun is pointing and looking at a gun can't hurt anyone. I don't know if those cops were wrong or trying to make sure a dog with rabies didnt hurt any kids after it was done with the other dog but Im glad so many people can share their feelings about those scary police men.

Anyone who volunteers probably probably shouldn't be there in the first place...

Yeah D Buck since this is so comparable to 2 humans getting into a scuffle and both being shot by the police.

I'd take my dog over many humans I know.

Gee, guess we need to set standards of IQ before We hire people to protect our life & property, you can't control where those bullets go once it leaves the gun barrel.

Cowards they were not saving anyones lives they were crapping their pants in fear, good thing no kids got shot with a stray bullet but guess what nothing would of been done anyway they kill people all the time our heroes

First you have to understand the Nature of dogs. Blame their owners for not containing them. They where unattended in a public setting. I don't thing any police department trains its officers about breaking dog fights. I know every city has rules for pets. At least no children where attacked.

YES or shot time for drug testing

what gets me is its one of those people telling the cops how to act....fu***ing hilarious..

Was it a assault dog? Did he eat hight capacity dog biscuits? Will Obama use his executive orders
and tax dogs. Maybe ban them or even take guns from Police?

I own guns and dogs, I have 4 dogs and they are Staffordshire's, not Pit Bulls!!

The cops have pepper spray, it will stop a bear so it will stop a dog in its tracks. Those idiots just like to abuse their power and position. Their is no exscuse for what they did! They put human lives in danger, they should loose their jobs abd thei ability to have firearms, they were showing beyond poor judgment.

When dogs are fighting it is loud and seems awful but rarely is either dog actually hurt. I think we can assume that this was the case as the fight had gone on for a while because the police had to be called and had to respond. The dogs were still at it when they arrived. There is no justification to kill both or all three dogs. I've had good luck breaking up dogfights with a bucket of water. The police simply didn't use their heads and reacted to their adrenalin & what they perceived as a danger.

The report mentioned that one of the dogs had a leash. If he was tied in the back of the pick-up, we can assume that he belonged to the owner of the truck and was being attacked. Why they would see fit to shoot that dog also is a mystery and totally unwarranted.

Maybe the NRA is to blame.

It's nice to know that we don't need guns to defend ourselves, since the police will surely come to our rescue in time.

Jeffor---You are absolutley right, who wants a moron like this coming to the rescue.

Incidents like this lead me to say that a double didget IQ should be a prerequisite for posting on a blog like this. Some of you fecking idiots make me feel intelectually superior. You know who you are, and now so do most of the sane ones.

The real issue at hand here is that two not one two police officers,keepers of the peace made horrible choices when they drew a leatheland sometimes unpredictable weapon from their holsters and fired several deflectable rounds in a public setting...I once used pepper spray very similar to that which the cops ALL carry on a dog that chased bikes and it most definatly will put a dog down,in this case instantly!!!I'm just saying that instinct and TRAINING should have told both of these PEOPLE to go for the spray...and the leashed dog to start with..

What gets me about this is trying to make this story a referendum on pro or con gun control issues. One has nothing to do with the other.

The act in and of itself in shooting these animals was disgusting. Since when is a dog fight equal that of using deadly force. They should have secured the area and let the dogs fight it out until they got tired or killed one another or animal control arrived. If the dogs had been running around in the street and doing this, which is not all that uncommon, and it came down to human safety Vs. animal.....Sorry the animal(s) has to be put down.

The dog in the truck wasn't running free, he was attacked by a stray, and killed for being a victim. And to you, the stupidly self-named greatest, I'm NOT the anonymous one- or are you claiming your mommy named you "The Greatest". I can certainly tell you MY parents named me Neale after a long family tradition of the first-born having the name "Neale" somewhere in their name. And Osborn goes back as far as at least 1760 in my family. I'm not anonymous, much to my wife's displeasure. And I am not bluffing- my dog is FAR more important than stupid cops shooting animals on a crowded street. But to be honest, I doubt I'd shoot them- too good a chance of them missing me when they shot back (being cops, who are notorious for being crappy shots) and hitting the school. Of course, I'd probably have stopped the fight before the cops ever arrived, with the baseball bat I keep in the truck so I don't have to use my pistol for defense if possible. But I'd be far more likely to whack the COPS in the back of the head with a baseball bat. Besides, if I shot them, you gun-grabbing buttheads would blame the gun rather tha the idiot cops for the shootings.

Now let me get this straight..TWO unrestrained dogs were fighting out in public and NO ONE including one of the owners could separate them, so they called the cops. The Cops HANDLED the situation, making sure that NO ONE was hurt by the dogs,,and now people are bitching about it.

If the people wanted a different solution why didnt THEY separate the dogs? Why couldn't the owner control his own dog?

Cops did the right thing.

These cops should not only be fired, they should be prosecuted. There is no explanation to justify this.

Janine-1645002

One dog was restrained as per the story. The other was not and a stray.

One was stated to be a pit bull....I don't know about you but one rule is never get in between a dog fight unless you want to get injured. I have to agree with all those that stated to use pepper spray 1st.

DAM !! sure as hell glad that wasn't my dog. Or should I say they better be glad it wasn't my dog. If you have no more nerve than that, you sure as hell should not have a badge and dam well not be able to carry a gun. How did the jerks get on the force? BARNEY STRICKS AGAIN

why the bystanders didnt breakup the fight? instead of calling the police,the must have been beting on the fight.

TheGreatest-7456646-You're a lot of talk for some reject bashing on every comment down the feed. Let's see what your shoe size IQ-ed response to me will be.

First, it doesn't matter what precipitated this video, the ONLY time a police officer should use their firearm is if a life is in danger. Two dogs fighting in the back of a pick up, whose life was in danger Great One? Nobody's. It took long enough for the police to show up, people cleared the area quite a bit. If a dog is a danger to a person they're not going to trot around town passing people up then attack the first dog they see. The only "Bystanders" injured during a dog fight are people that intervene. Police aren't doing their jobs if someone is close enough to be hurt by a dog fight, so they are more wrong, and still should be fired. But back to the shooting. Pepper spray or a taser gun would have worked just as well. Sh*t if the dogs are fighting and you hit one both will feel the electricity. Break them apart with a nightstick or mag light. If it really was a pit, his head is made of concrete, hit him on the head. Spray them with something, ANYTHING, but they did not deserve to be shot. Especially the one that was attacked.

And to your comment about Neale being all talk, the police wouldn't have a chance to arrive on seen if a dog attacked my dog. If my dog is attacked by something dangerous enough that he can't kill it (I have a 70 lb pit bull) than I know it's dangerous to me and I'll put a bullet in its head before the police can even arrive.

And my last comment, you're an adult female dog, alternative to a cat or female reproductive organ. Garry Owen!

As far as punishment for the officers for doing this.....I would be open to anything from them being fired to sending them back to basic training, or even a desk job without a gun.

Pepper spray, or... do these cops not carry fire extinguishers in their cars? Either of those would have been MUCH more appropriate. Two cops not thinking. Dangerous situation. More from the cops than from the dogs.

They did the right thing Janine? So what if two people were fighting, and for whatever reason you couldnt break them up. Would that be the right thing to do too? Just shoot them? Please sterilize yourself so you cant contaminate the rest of the world with your idiocy.

Basic rules with dogs

1) never approach a dog you don't know unless the owner says it safe

2) never interfere with a dog eating

3) never get in between dogs fighting

4) never try and pet a dog that is growling or bearing it's teeth

They teach that at my local animal shelter to kids

LOl @ the people worried about ricochet bullets. It"s quite funny how people think that physics from movies apply to reality. Since most handguns do not have the velocity to cause severe damage from a ricochet bullet for the fact the most of the bullets energy was exerted into the first object it came into contact with. Guns that have high power, such as the .50 cal rifle would be the greatest threat for injury from ricochet bullets.

You wanted big government to take over your lives and run things however they want..... you got it so quit whining. Besides, you think that's bad just wait until it becomes you next.

Oregondog...Pepper spray does NOT work on dogs dilhole....And it works on bears?? Are you willing to test it out?

Just a refresher for those that can't remember the story they just read:

Cops were called when the dogs couldn't be separated, and when they arrived, witnesses were stunned at the reaction. One officer shot at the dogs five times with a pistol, then another fired one blast from a shotgun. Both dogs were killed.

Steve your basic rules are so true, now if only people had the Common sense We all thought was common.

Steve-3564331

Here's one for ya. Basic gun safety rules.

1) Never shoot a gun with innocent bystanders around because of ricochets and/or shrapnel.

I learned that in gun safety class 20 years ago.

Pepper spray or a taser wouldn't work adequately? They did the WRONG thing. Plain and simple. They put innocent lives at risk. Does it really take 6 shots to kill 2 dogs? Only if your aim is horrible.

Sam627556

agreed.

Someone once told me that if common sense was common then everyone would have it.

Where'sTheCommonSense

Why was your comment aimed at me? For suggesting that I might agree with the use of pepper spray? What?

The article didn't say if they tried to use it, it only states that the dogs couldn't be separated.....

THis is what happens when you Lower Standards for anything. In todays society, we have to accept X amount of minorities who cant pass the tests , mental , physical. Just like letting certain sex into fire departments, where being strong is part of the job ect ect .. When we lower standards and allow who ever and what ever, we get crazy stuff like this. Im sorry but only the best need to be in certain positions, too bad if you cant pass tests, the world needs ditch diggers too.

the good news...both dogs were sh!t eater's...countless news vine poster's can breath easier...

Marmaduke49

Just like letting certain sex into fire departments, where being strong is part of the job

We all know what you meant. If your going to be sexist then at least don't try and sugar coat it.

I'm sure you can come up with another example if you try.

BTW some ditch diggers make great money.

Steve-

I didn't mean for my comment to offend or insult you at all if it did. It wasn't a poke at you. Just stating that using a gun in that situation, was not the best move they could have done. I've broken up 2 German Shepherds before with only a stick. I'm sure they have night clubs or something of that nature in their squad car. Just seems like they didn't think it through very well.

If this cause them to be fired i don't know what will.

Where'sTheCommonSense

Thank you for clearing that up.....I think there is universal agreement here that something else could have been done.

Based on a lot of these comment you can see there are two basic types of people that have pets. One is the type that sees their pet as something they own, something that when it dies it can be replaced. The other sees their pet as a member of the family. Something who's loss will leave a lasting void. Its that 2nd one that is so outrage at what for them/us is the unnecessary killing(murder) of a family member.

Makes me wonder what they'd have done to two 6 year old kids fighting. Probably blown their poor little brains out.

Andrew Wolf

I think that your comment over generalizes.

It's called deadly force for a reason.

Life,Limb & Property. This is what I know about when it is ok to use it.

Tell me how 2 dogs fighting fits? They where in the back of a truck, not on the street. One of them could not have gotten out as it was leashed.

Hey Tackleberry go break up the dog fight,take Hightower with ya...............,BWAHAHAHAHA

Here is a good example of when deadly force should be used: (Story Just posted on MSN)

Man fatally shoots Ala. bus driver, takes child: Police Authorities say the shooter took the child to an area behind a nearby church, and police were negotiating with him.

MIDLAND CITY, Ala. — Authorities in Alabama say a man boarded a school bus, shot the driver several times, then removed a 6-year-old passenger and ran.

The Dale County Sheriff tells WBMA-TV that the man shot the driver Tuesday after he refused to let the child off the bus. The bus driver later died of his wounds. His identity has not been released.

Authorities say the shooter took the child to an area behind a nearby church, and police were negotiating with him.

Police in Midland City were not immediately available for comment, and a call to the Dale City Sheriff's office was not answered Tuesday evening.

People
we are only hearing what little information NBC is sharing on this story. We
have no idea what actions were taken prior to the cops shooting the dogs. Maybe
someone did try pulling them apart, dumping water on their heads, using pepper
spray. It is unfair to come down on these cops so hard when we have no idea
what truly happened here. That being said, it is very easy to say they should
have done this and that when you are not in the situation yourself. Ok, so you
can break up a pitbull fight but most cops I know are not going to risk injury
to themselves to stop 2 dogs from fighting. It is not as easy as everyone
thinks. My friend lost two fingers trying to stop a fight between her two dogs.
Also, pepper spray does not work on every dog! My sister’s dog was sprayed
directly in the face and kept running at the delivery guy. It does not always
work.... We also don't know how bad it was when the cops finally got there. The
dog that was being attacked could have been in really bad shape. The first
shots may have been against the aggressor and the shotgun to put the other dog
out of its misery? We also don't know what was reported to the police. The
calls coming in could have indicated the animal was not acting right before the
attack indicating rabies. Who knows, but to say they police should be fired is
not fair. Not all cops are on a power trip. Not all cops are in the position to be a jerk or to prove something. It makes me so mad because yes, they make mistakes but so do you! They have extremly stressful jobs and deal with so much crap. You all hate them until you need them when someone is breaking into your home, your wife is having a heart attack or someone is shooting up your childs school.

The news/media is horrible about getting out ALL the facts and people love
to speculate on what they don't know. Obviously it is a heartbreaking situation
that someone's innocent dog was attacked and killed.

If either dog was rabid this could have been much worse ...let the cops do thier jobs and stop second guessing how wonderful you would have been if it had been you....

I was a police officer 20plus years ago and unless they have changed pepper spray or dogs now have tear glands pepper spray does not work. One of the officer that I worked with went on a call to dogs fighting and when he got there they could not break it up with water and nobody was crazy enough to try to get between them so he shot the bigger dog. The small one jumped at him and he put his arm up to shield himself and he also shot at it. He hit it but the dog still made it to him and he took over 30 stitches in his arm. It also bit him on the leg. he shot and hit it three time (38 cal). The owner who was standing there finally shot it with a 410 shotgun. I do like all these @$$ holes that where not there and do not really know what happened. Belive everthing you read and someday they may have a story about you. One of are greatest losses is that of the press they no longer know anything but stories that they can get stupid people excited over.

Exactly Garyj! My husband is a detective and laughs when the "news" reports come out about a case he is working. I swear they leave important details out just to make a better story! Don't believe everything your read in the news.

They should have called the Fire Department. A fire hose on full pressure will break up any fight!

Those cops should have taken off their guns and thrown them on the front seat and jumped into the fight with their bare hands and showed that crowd that they're not worried about getting huge bite wounds and rabies or tetanus or any other disease. Cops are tough, they can take it.

Nothing to 'Read or See Here, Move Along, Next Story'... Yawn!

wish they'd run one of them nancy grace tear jerker stories...i like it when she goes to love hate'n...

I was a police officer 20plus years ago and unless they have changed pepper spray or dogs now have tear glands pepper spray does not work.

Why do all postmen carry an animal eye irritant?

When I was younger, a coach's type whistle on a shoulder lanyard close to the mouth was standard issue for police; at least it was in the city in which I grew up. I don't know if that is still the case?

The reason I note this is that people who work with and train guard dogs, and people who are hands-on with dogs in animal shelters also carry whistles (for their personal protection and for the protection of the animals).

A sharp blast from a whistle will instantly stop a dog fight, and send the animals whimpering away, tails between their legs. I have seen it in action a half dozen times as a volunteer at two regional animal shelters.

It is extremely painful to their super-acute hearing, and is a very effective tool.

It's likely these officers didn't have whistles, or if they were in fact carrying whistles, it's possible they weren't aware of the effective tool they had at their disposal when dealing with dogs. I bet they will be now.

I think it's pretty ridiculous for us to second-guess the officers who were present at the scene, with no more information than we have from this brief news story. Seriously, folks. Let's dial it down a bit.

Steve-3564331

Marmaduke49

Just like letting certain sex into fire departments, where being strong is part of the job

We all know what you meant. If your going to be sexist then at least don't try and sugar coat it.

I'm sure you can come up with another example if you try.

BTW some ditch diggers make great money.

Im not a sexist, but a realist. My whole point is that there are some places where men are needed and excel in women, and are in positions where men are needed. But hey if a woman can do the same strenuous job then im all for it but lets not dummy down standards set. This goes for other jobs where certain standards are set for a reason, whether it be to provide the best public safety, or what ever.. Not everyone is the same, and we need to recognize that people are different. There is a difference between men and woman. I dont want people with low IQ's or no common sense what so ever on a police department just because we had to lower standards.

Ever see Rescue me ? I think Dennis leary says it best here.

click on the show around the 36:20 mark and go from there.

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xj1eq1_rescue-me-guts_shortfilms#.UQiD6mdqX3Q

Tommy: Look, Doc...

Dr. Goldberg: Oh, you don't need to explain, I was at another firehouse last night and the reaction was quite similar.

Tommy: The guys, uh, they're not gonna talk to a psychotherapist in the firehouse, especially not uh, female one.

Dr. Goldberg: What about the female firefighters?

Tommy: We don't have any female firefighters in this house.

Dr. Goldberg: Are you threatened by women?

Tommy: No.

Dr. Goldberg: You-- you don't seem to think that a woman can be a firefighter.

Tommy: I'll tell you what, it's not about being a man or a woman, okay? It's about doing the job. It's about me getting home safe and sound in the morning to see my kids, okay? So, you got a woman who can do the job better than the guys on my crew? Bring her on. You know? You got a martian, or a cyborg, or a Chinaman that can do the job, bring them on too.

Dr. Goldberg: Are there any Chinese firefighters?

Tommy: Yeah, probably. Somewhere in... China.

Dr. Goldberg: I'm sensing a lot of hostility.

Tommy: You are very, very perceptive.

Dr. Goldberg': That's what they tell me.

If my dog was brutally attacked and I was not there I would want someone to put
her out of misery immediately and use as many bullets as needed to make sure
she died quickly. I love dogs but when it comes down to it, I would not want my dog to suffer for
any amount of time so people could find me. If a dog goes after my dog and it
is really bad, I would want the cop responding to the call to take care of it quickly.

Hey, if you see it on the news it must be true, right? viola.

I knew a child that was chewed up by a stray pit bull, it was the saddest thing I have seen in my life. They were still trying to give him a face. I'm with the police, any stray dog should be shot on sight.

Also, where does it say in the Policeman's job description: and take chance of getting bit by breaking up dog fights. What a bunch of frigging mental giants we have on here tonight. It is just a stupid dog, that nobody even cared enough about to keep it fenced in. That police officer has a family that depends on him, and YOU AND I have to pay his hospital bills. A lot of people have their priorities screwed up, no dog is worth the safety of a police officer. I am ashamed of the previous comments posted.

And the dogs were in front of a school, where there are lots of UNARMED children. I am floored by these comments. I applaud the police.

My sister lost a finger when she tried to intervene in a dog fight with dogs she knew- and they were small dogs.

I have never seen so many idiots on one blog before.

The cops were 100% in the right. There were many outcomes to this and none of them good. One of the dogs was a pit bull, one of the most vicious and unpredictable dogs that there is. Pit bulls have been known to kill children, imagine the outrage if the pit bull got away and attacked a person in it's rage. There is also the possibly that one of the dogs could be rabid as an unprovoked attack is rare, as a matter of fact I have never heard of a dog attacking another one in a truck.

The owner of the dog that attacked is the one who is responsible for this outcome and should be fined the maximum allowed under leash laws.

Oops, big mistake by the cops! Most dogfights sound more vicious than they really are. I have been in the middle of a few dogfights with large dogs. Where were their taser guns, pepperspray, or even an electric hot shot would have pulled them apart for a few minutes. Remember, dogs don't always get along. The dog that attacked the dog in the pickup would be at fault along with it's owner, but the cops could have done a way better job........................

dave1bg and JohnnyOnTheSpot:

What a bunch of frigging mental giants we have on here tonight. It is just a stupid dog,

Stupid is as stupid does. My chocolate Lab would've stopped that dog fight without the need to use any of his weapons.

What force do you represent because comments such as yours can only come from "those who believe they are in the know" and those citizens should be warned.

Condolences to the family and friends of the dogs.

It's amazing how many expert opinions, without knowing any of the circumstances. It's not the cops that are dangerous, it's your brains that need help. Whatever happened to getting facts before you condemn someone's actions.The cops wouldn't have fired if they thought they were endangering peoples lives. Prove me wrong.

I would never step into the middle of a dogfight and I wouldn't ask anyone else to. Where were the dogs owners? Did anyone try hosing the two dogs down with cold water BEFORE calling in the police? Or did they just stand back and expect the cops (who are generally not trained to do animal control) to handle this? The article mentioned one animal control who was not available... so I guess citizens need to pony up and pay for more of them, if they want TRAINED people to handle things like this.

Debi

Where were you and your lab? Not there. I would hope that you loved your lab enough that you wouldn't let him get killed by a pit bull. Most labs are lovers not fighters.

"What force do you represent because comments such as yours can only come from "those who believe they are in the know" and those citizens should be warned."

I am in the know. I know that the safety of the public is the first priority, not the safety of the dogs. And since neither of us were there we don't know if the officers could have got close enough to use pepper spray, and a taser may not be effective against dogs, and even if one was used most pit bulls will fight through it and fight to the death.

You have proved Dave right the are allot of mental "giants" here tonight.

Great. If they can (someone even suggested they are trained to do so) shoot dogs at will in public and eventually put other unsuspecting people nearby carelessly in the line of fire, imagine what they will do to YOU.

I am in the know. I know that the safety of the public is the first priority, not the safety of the dogs. And since neither of us were there we don't know if the officers could have got close enough to use pepper spray, and a taser may not be effective against dogs, and even if one was used most pit bulls will fight through it and fight to the death.

If you are a law enforcement officer, then I am the Queen of England.

People have been attacked trying to break up dog fights when the dog redirects the agression to someone or something else. If you try to stop a dog from killing something it wants you run the risk of getting attacked as well.

Oh, please. I see animal control people taking care of aggressive dogs almost every day, we have a bunch of strays around here, most of which are pits. They never use weapons. That's a case of trigger-happy rozzer gone out of control, and putting innocents in danger in the process.

... pit bulls will fight through it and fight to the death.

If you knew anything about dogs, particularly pit bulls, you'd know that a dog fight is just that, a fight between dogs. Their aggression is almost never directed against humans.

dogs fight for dominance. once one dog yields, the other stops. unlike humans. so in order to protect the dogs they killed them? dogs do not fight to the death unless trained to do so. This is just dumb, maybe they should give people an IQ test before making them a cop????

h engbers

It's amazing how many expert opinions, without knowing any of the circumstances. It's not the cops that are dangerous, it's your brains that need help. Whatever happened to getting facts before you condemn someone's actions.The cops wouldn't have fired if they thought they were endangering peoples lives. Prove me wrong.

Remember the incident in NY, when a man shot another man and then ran, the police chased him and shot about a dozen rounds at him? And innocent bystanders got hit from those stray bullets. Cops are people too. Do they not make mistakes?

Where'sTheCommonSense:

Thanks, you beat me to it.

It's unbelievable how some people look up to the police as if they are some Superman comic book character, can do no wrong and only live for truth, justice and the American way.

The behavior exhibited should be equated with Keystone Cops.

Where were you and your lab? Not there.

Never claimed to be there. Only said my chocolate lab would've handled the situation better than the humans. You don't know my Harley.

and obummer wants to take the guns away from us citizens..................uh no.

fire the idiots really come out guns a blazing.and they dont want us having guns. fire them fire them i say they dont need guns you cant break up a dog fight barbie man . just got to know how to handle it they failed fire the idiots. try shooting my dog see what you get.cop with a gun run run. all you cops are sissys with a gun you all got picked on when you were young, bunch of girls. if you cant handle a dog fight go work at walmart . cops suck hide behind your badge.you all abuse your badge go f32k off

In that particular case, the danger of someone getting accidentally shot was greater than the danger of someone getting bitten (in front of a high school, no less). Dogs fighting for alpha positions is usually less bad than it looks, most of the time the loser dog comes out without injury, or very little. Watch an adult dog schooling a belligerent puppy, it sounds like someone is getting killed, but no one gets physically hurt. Dog trainers also know that training is mostly mental, not so much physical.
Bottom line is that that cop acted over the top at a situation he was not trained for, and caused more harm than good.

I believe the police did what they needed to do. WE were not there and police are trained to pull their weapon only when there is no other alternative.

Good. Look at that, and tell me again they do what they need to do. That case wasn't much different, except, they sprayed bullets in front of a high school without caring that they might hit someone innocent. If a cop can't defuse a situation involving dogs, how can you expect that they can take care of a situation that presents real danger to people. They are not defusing it, they are CAUSING it. Ignorance is bliss.

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=49f_1353946915

Debora:

WE were not there and police are trained to pull their weapon only when there is no other alternative.

You must live in Mayberry. Or, maybe not. Their #2 man was Barney Fife.

You people are hilarious! You don't even know the whole story! I'm sure there is more to it then you see here. Just because you have a video does not mean you have the whole story. What happened before this. Why were the police there? The other point is that this IS in front of a school. How many of you would be mad if this crazy dog that just RAN and JUMPED into the back of this truck would have RAN and JUMPED onto a kid and tore the up? Lets just wait until something worse happens then complain! You cannot believe everything you see or hear. We need to hear why they were called there to begin with! Also, they were not spraying bullets all over the area. They were shooting into the back of a truck! Way to over exagerate there people! There is your first clue that these people are just trying to find a reason to complain! I think you will be singing a different tune when one day you need a police officer and you want them to put themselves between you and something bad or pit bull teeth. No they are not triained to wrestle dogs!

I'm sure there is more to it then you see here. Just because you have a video does not mean you have the whole story.

How much more can there be to a dog fight. I don't ever recall them them being armed and hell-bound on killing people. Wake up.

...one day you need a police officer and you want them to put themselves between you and something bad or pit bull teeth...

You listen to too much media hype. I have yet to see a pit that is set to bite or kill people, and I see them every day. In fact, most pits are are extremely affectionate to humans who aren't hostile towards them.

How many of you would be mad if this crazy dog that just RAN and JUMPED into the back of this truck would have RAN and JUMPED onto a kid and tore the up?

This is the kind of imagination and drama Hollywood writers dream about. You missed your calling.

The other point is that this IS in front of a school.

That IS the point. Discharging guns in front of a school to stop two fighting dogs...that doesn't sound ridiculous and crazy to you???? There are many others ways this could have been non lethally stopped. It just would have required the use of a brain, instead of a gun.

Gad..I've lived too many years. We raised dozens (plus) dogs before I graduated. I know people "attribute" certain breeds as being antagonistic, but they really are not, unless you raise them to be. Truth is (to get back onto the subject), passing the tests to become a police officer does not guarantee that you have any common sense or good judgment, nor does it mean that you may not be a little bit power-goofy...but they don't test brainy-nerds for that. Not a "dig"...I was one of "them"...and I was proud of it. . Truth is, there are those who take the tests to try and "feel" more powerful...not because they feel a compelling notion to Protect and Serve, but because they've always felt like an underdog, and "now" they can even the balance. Dixie made several good points. Marmaduke...some ditch diggers are very strong women. Steve...you made good points, also. But no police-person should Ever discharge their weapon amongst civilians...that is just bone-headed. When I was growing up, we had (at some point) over 15 cats, about 2 dozen dogs, and various assorted other livestock animals...never had anything fight and kill another. when a rabid animal was found, i shot IT...before it could attack anything. Only 3-4 of them over the years, but they're pretty easy to spot. The police that randomly shot at those dogs?.....boneheads. They could have hurt SO many people, and that is just another reason that "passing the tests" should involve SO much more, when it comes to becoming a police officer. Yes...I feel sorry for the poor dog that was innocent and was attacked. I do Not feel sorry for the "officers" that displayed such poor judgment/actions in this situation...WAYYYYY above board, and totally unnecessary. they should get a little "vacation time". (Meaning...."training").

These filthy cops are lucky they did not hurt anyone. They should both be fired and prosecuted. The next time it might be two guys fighting with knives and the cops start opening fire.

Who will protect you from your protectors when the government outlaws guns? Thats right no one. When you butt is sitting in a detention cell because you spoke out against the government maybe then you will realize that you should never trust a big organized gang. Just ask any Japanese that was interned during WW2 right here in Amerika.

I don't see where the police can win in this situation.

1) If they shot a dog some people get mad.

2) If they let the dogs continue to fight some people get mad.

3) If they don't react quickly enough and have to wait for animal control some people get mad.

4) maybe they should have called Philadelphia's Michael "Dog friendly" Vick, no Steelers fans would get mad that one of their guys weren't called.

No one was hurt? WHO CARES!!!!

Multiple rounds fired into some ones truck and in the direction of a school? Kill 2 dogs because they were fighting and no one thought to use the pepper spray? And people worry about what rifle I own. The cops shoot my dog in my truck and shoot up my truck as well. I think I might get just a bit pissed.

Whether people want to admit it or not, a lot of cops are trigger happy ! I do not trust them around any animal especially around dogs. they always have an excuse for killing dogs " because I THOUGHT it was gonna attack me. " a lot of them will lie just because they don't like dogs.

I handled German shepherds in the Army. With two people you can easily separate two dogs in a dog fight and not get bit. They are concentrating on each other so you each grab a tail then walk your hands up their backs until you get a hold on their necks/collars. With people trying to separate them they will lock onto each other rather than turn on the people grabbing them because their focus is on each other. Then you each get a hand on their throats and choke them until they let go. I personally did this several times and never got bit. I never saw any dog handlers get bit doing this. And no dog ever had to die. No one ever had to pull their side arm and shoot. Sure it takes some guts but if a policeman doesn't have that then he's in the wrong business.

I also think it wouldn't be that big a deal for police to carry a catch pole or restraining leashes for strays. And there are special sprays for dogs but I'm not sure how effective they would be when they are in a heightened state of aggression. At any rate there does need to be some training on animal control. I can't see how shooting would be justified unless people were in danger.

SprDg..Yes you handled TRAINED dogs in the Army who were TRAINED and were used to the touch of a handler because they were TRAINED....

(see the bold word there?)

Mykiddosmom:

they should get a little "vacation time". (Meaning...."training").

Their lack of ability to determine the necessity of lethal force should get them more than "training". They shouldn't be allowed to have possession of a gun. I wouldn't trust or want them in my neighborhood.

Sure Debi....You'll want them when YOU need them....And say one shows up and you "saw" something in the news about him and you really needed him, are you going to tell him to go away?? I call bullsh^t...

Rob68:

You have no knowledge of who I am and are equally unqualified to call "bullsh*t.

I'll just rack your comment (knowledge) up to a sign of naivety and immaturity.

Debi you still didn't answer the question.

I'll just rack the fact you didn't up to a sign of avoidance and being full of it.

If the dogs had been armed with assault rifles, they wouldn't be dead right now.

And say one shows up and you "saw" something in the news about him and you really needed him, are you going to tell him to go away?? I call bullsh^t...

I didn't answer your question because you've already determined it bullsh*t.

I will say this; I have never called for law enforcement assistance.

Well if and when you do I hope they take their sweet time since you seem to not need them....

Well if and when you do I hope they take their sweet time since you seem to not need them....

Why would you wish something bad on me just because I've decided fending for myself is far more reliable than trusting a stranger? Is that how you treat your fellow man? Do unto others Rob68, do unto others.

>>"Those dogs were not armed"

Every dog is armed. With teeth. Every dog is a dangerous, loaded weapon in the hands of a nitwit.

>>"I've separated 2 pit-bulls fighting before, all you need is your hands and some balls."

You are a lying, posturing fool. What you describe is a fast way to die violently and painfully, or to become permanently maimed and scarred very quickly.
You may fancy that you have an excess of testosterone, but what you really have is a deficiency of brains. Were the dogs you claim to have separated your own? Then you're twice the fool for owning them. Were they not? Then your a reckless fool who is lucky to be alive.

A large dog is a dangerous animal when it is not strictly controlled by its feeder.
Every dog found roaming at large should be shot if it shows any indication of baring its fangs to a human being. When the dog is already fighting in the vicinity of human beings there should be not the slightest hesitation. Society does well to be rid of such a dangerous creature.

The police did the right thing in this situation. Better many dogs are dead than one child mauled.

Debi....Practice what you preach....You bash those cops not knowing them or their character and say you hope they never show up in YOUR neighborhood....Based on one incident you weren't even there for...Do unto others Debi and don't be a hypocrite....

CCTP- as a gunsmith,reloader, and avid shooter, I can tell you know NOTHING about firearms. .22lr ricochets can and do kill. as do every other caliber, if shot by ignoramuses like these two cops. On a crowded street, with people all around, AT THE BARE MINIMUM these two @!$%#s should have cleared the street before firing, maintaining a clear sight picture IN CASE THE DOGS TRIED TO ATTACK A HUMAN. Most cops these days use 9mm or .40 S&W, both known for overpenetration of thinner targets (as a dog would be) even with the hollowpoint ammo most cops are issued. They just travel so damned fast they tend to go right through, and/or ricochet off thicker bones (like skulls). I've seen ricochets even at well-set up ranges, and I have been hit in the hand, breaking a bone, by a .22 ricochet at the range. The bullet hit a rock just perfectly. I picked the spent slug out of the wound before going to the doctor. Ricochets are ALWAYS a possibility, and are why one of the basic rules of shooting is ALWAYS know your target AND what is behind it before you shoot.

Rob68:

I know for a fact they killed two fighting dogs and discharged their guns in front of a school.

Based on those facts alone, no, I would not want them patrolling in my neighborhood.

Looking out for my own safety and well being doesn't make me a hypocrite.

It's ok...Most cannot see their own hypocrisy...

Please Rob, explain my hypocrisy.

I thought the same thing -- why not taze the dogs? But then, I don't think dogs comply to tazing in the same way humans do. When a human is tazed, it hurts tremendously, and afterward we comply because we don't like the pain. With a dog, when the pain stops, the behavior resumes. Dogs require lengthy training, because they don't learn as quickly or as well as humans do.

"Dogs require lengthy training, because they don't learn as quickly or as well as humans do."

I would disagree with that. How long does it take to potty rain a child versus a dog?

I don't blame them for shooting at least one of the dogs, but a shotgun? How about getting close and aiming for the dog's head? When a pit bull starts fighting, it doesn't quit for anything, but it shouldn't take THAT many bullets.

What about the innocent dog in the back of the truck. Did it deserve to die, or is it just another case of collateral damage? It was the victim here it would seem. Why kill the victim?

there is just no excuse for doing what they did- they could of tazered the animals to break it up.....and in front of a high school, what are they trying to teach people, they dont deserve a badge, take it away!!! with cops like that, who needs them!

All the poor Postman had all these years was a stick or more recently mace. P.S. Bluedevil, are you saying police are to dangerous with guns or is it a personal peeve about guns.

Yeah BlueDevil, that response makes sense. I want to trust my saftey to cops and other "trained strangers". Did you not read the article??? I will always prefer to take personal responsibility for myself and my familys safety. You go ahead and dial 911 like these folks did. Remember when every second counts and your life is in the balance go ahead and dial 911. The cops are only 15-18 minutes away.

It is so easy to say if it were me, or if I were king this is how things get done.

Don't the police carry blankets in their cars?

Wow! now everyone is waking up!! Too bad it is over 2 dogs. When did dogs lives mean more that people? I have been telling folks for years that Government & the cops are so corrupt. But it takes dogs getting killed to make you realize that they are not here for us(The People)?

They were right next to a high school. Do you think they thought of YOUR kids?? Of course not. They could care less. There is nothing in it for them. Arm your self people. The cops can not and will not protect us when the sh*t hits the fan!!!

who cares, they're only dogs, mutts. I'm happy no humans were hurts, thats matters more

big deal, only mutts, I hate pitbuls anyway, sorry about the little runt mutt

All these officers had to do was put a call into the FD on the way to answer the call.When they observed for themselves the animals fighting,you just hit them with the fire hose,problem solved.NOw, because of these trigger happy cops,the guy not only lost his dog,who was the actual victim here,but also has a vehicle thats probably totalled due to bullet holes,and dog blood,and will probably sit in the impound yard as evidence for 6 months.Totally unacceptable,and I would have fired all three if they worked for me.

Yeah, and islamobama is worried about regular citizens having a weapon! TO PROTECT AND SERVE, HA, HA, HA!

Let's see:

Police K-9 officers are given status of human,officers - if you shoot a K-9 officer, you stand a very good chance of being charged with assault on an officer... even if the K-9 is chewing or your arm, leg, crotch - your kid! Legally - if you interven, you can and likely will be charged with a felony.

As far as a dog fight goes; if my dog is attacked on the street - I don't care if the attacking dog is Poodle, Pug, Chihuahua or Police K-9 and the owner/handler does nothing to correct or restrain his animal - I let go of the leash. It is unfair for me to restrain my dog - he deserves the right to defend himself without restriction. I will not allow my dog to be chewed on under restraint.

Finding himself restrained during a fight - I've seen even the best mannered dog turn on his handler - with you being in the middle - you may end up being bitten by both.

A good fire extinguisher is great for breaking up a "normal"dog fight the noise and smokeand cold air is enough , if neither of them has trained to fight. The average dog fights over in under a minute or possibly 2 minutes ...that is usually time enough to establish which is the Alpha dog.

Little by little - I have come to understand that cops have become autometons. They will use their guns for any reason; from some one raising his voice, for running away from danger or for you "fit the profile" excuses.

What was wrong with these cops!!!!! Who the hell shoots a dog or 2 for that matter!!!!! The sheriff should lock there asses up under the jail!!!! I me or you did this to 2 dogs we would be in jail right now!!!!! Where is the nosey ass ASPCA when you need them!!!! This is the worst thing I have seen in a while!!! POOR DOGS GOD LOVE THEM BOTH!!!!!!! AND PLEASE FORGIVE THE IDIOTS THAT KILLED THEM!!!!!!

"Doggie downer" rounds were outlawed as part of the assault weapons ban.

@Dom ----My friends goats got out one time and the animal control dude shot all ten. He said they could have been a hazzerd. They all just want to shoot something.

Water hose maybe, or pepper spray would probably have worked just fine. Their first reaction is to shoot the dogs?????

denver bill 2

"Doggie downer" rounds were outlawed as part of the assault weapons ban.

Well said. Here again another great news report..................... And the offended "people" posting here are even better.

I don't think officers routinely carry animal sedatives, and those take a while to work. A hose or pepper spray isn't going to work on a pit bull. One of those dogs would have ended up dead and then the other could go after another dog or a person. Shooting the aggressive dog was justified, but the number of bullets they used seems excessive.

fantastically put helicohunter i feel the same way see my post below

Best way to break up a dog fight is to grab the back legs and pull knocking the dog off balance . It works actually did it with a fight between a Pit bull and american bull dog . But don't expect an police officer to do that most are afraid of dogs . and as far as training well there should be training for the animal control officers and police too . Most A.C.O. get little to no training and like Chester only one officer . People need to voice thier concerns across the country this is happening everywhere . There should be S.O.P. in place and then they should be followed , but unfortunetly the voice of the animals are sometimes silenced by the budget cuts and understaffing in municipalities with regards to animal control .I can not believe they shot them right in the truck WTH would have happened if a bullet hit the gas tank !

Wouldn't shooting into the air ONCE cause 99% of fighting dogs to stop? I'd put money on it.

When you shoot into the air the bullet is going to come down somewhere, funny thing that gravity. Maybe on your head, then you're dead.

@helicohunter

Did you not read the atricle? The dog originally in the back of the thuck was on a leash. That dog's not going after anyone. As to pepper spray not working on a pit bull, I think most postmen would disagree. Have you ever been pepper sprayed? You won't see so well for a while after.

Woodrat: when you get a little older, you'll have a class in school that will teach you that what goes up must come down. Did you think the bullet would fly off into space? Shooting into the air stopped being a viable solution in about 1882...

kill all pit bulls, useless animals that kill people

drug dealers love them though

the dogs must have been black!

First, NO ONE mentioned the words "Pit Bull" in the story. It was stray dog and pooch. So get your mind off pit bulls.

Second, pit bulls NOT trained to fight are among the most gentle loving animals out there. But they DO tend to protect their people rather vigorously. That's why I carry a gun- I pit bull is too heavy and cops can't hit what they shoot at util they break out the shotgun.

Gee Neale, read the story dude.

Freeman told NBCNews.com that the bigger, more aggressive dog seemed to be a pit bull and had a leash, but the other smaller dog didn't. It was unclear who the owners were.

Also, pit bulls have been shown to be much more aggressive than most canines breeds. While some are indeed gentle, it is still in their genes to fight and be aggressive. When one attacks a person or another dog, I tend to consider that one to be.. well... aggressive and dangerous.

Maybe there's a reason that pit bulls are mentioned more in dog attack stories in the media. Maybe they are attacking more than other breeds. I can't recall the last doberman attack. Unless you count the Doberman movies of the 70's.

They are indeed causing more damage in attacks than any other breed.

Seems we need police control, not gun control!

I'm with Oregon Dog, pepper spray would have been sufficient and less paper work. If he knows Staffordshires, he knows dogs that can be aggressive. Can't believe the PD Chief didn't know about this since it involved the discharge of a service weapon. Must account for all ammunition and shots, alot of paper work. In rural areas it is even hard to get police to euthanize a deer that has been hit by a car and is suffering because of the paper work invoved in using that 1 bullet. Also don't write off risking a catastrophy. The fuel tanks on thoses trucks is under the box behind the cab. Right where he was shooting.

The ignorant think ALL dogs who fight are pit bulls. And that guy sounds QUITE ignorant.

"I thought them as the police should be held to a higher standard and would have some type of procedure for breaking it up than actually pulling out your pistols in front of the high school."

Freeman told NBCNews.com that the bigger, more aggressive dog seemed to be a pit bull and had a leash, but the other smaller dog didn't. It was unclear who the owners were.

You are right, I missed Mister Idiot's ignorant observations- MY mistake. But here's the biggest thing- thedog Mr. Idiot claimed LOOKED like a pit bull was the VICTIM- in the bed of his/her owner's truck. Attacked for simply being there. Ad killed by trigger happy morons too stupid to stop a dog fight the easy way- the pepper spray all cops carry, or the tasers they ALSO all carry.

Neale, some people have claimed pepper spray doesn't work on dogs. Regular black ground pepper has always worked on my dogs. I put it where I don't want them to go. If the cops had tasers (big IF in some places, they're not exactly cheap) that could've been attempted also. But I have never heard of a police car that didn't have a fire extinguisher in the trunk. People also mentioned a water hose. While cops do not carry a water hose nor have easy access to a water supply, they DO have fire extinguishers. No need to get real close either. The chemicals along with the wetness and the force would get their attention and back them away. Then simply shoot if one comes at you, as a last resort.

Also, until we see more details, we cannot know exactly what happened. Was the smaller dog the actual 'stray' or was the stray wearing a broken leash and jumping into the back of a truck where one wasn't considered to be needed? I'm all for the correct one to be punished or eliminated if it can be determined. But a leash can be broken and still be visible on a dog. We're just speculating here, on almost all accounts.

And yes, what someone considers to 'look like' a pit bull could almost be a chihuahua sometimes.

I'll tell you what, why don't you go up to the fighting dogs and reach your hand over there and taze them. Next time you use pepper spray. It doesn't work on dogs. Next time I think the police should just say, "it's not our job." and let the brilliant and brave citizens handle it.

Salvia58-3789575

I'll tell you what, why don't you go up to the fighting dogs and reach your hand over there and taze them. Next time you use pepper spray. It doesn't work on dogs. Next time I think the police should just say, "it's not our job." and let the brilliant and brave citizens handle it.

I bet the post men that carry it would beg to differ about how the pepper spray doesn't work on dogs. And for the taser, they make ones that shoot out, instead of having to be pressed on someones body. No need to get close. I have family members that are in law enforcement that have those kind of tasers.

The idea of pit bulls being loving nice dogs makes me think of all those crazy people that must be making chihuhuas fight and be mean too! There are just some dogs that are predisposed to being agressive and a little dog is one thing but a pit bull is another. Ask all the people that have had their kids, grandkids and neighbors killed by one of these dogs how nice those dogs were and I bet they will say the same thing. They were the most loving dog until this happened! You people don't understand the idea behind a "protective" type dog and thats what they are! They are just fine with you but bring someone in that they don't know and see what happens and I'm talking about when they are over a year or two old!

The dog that bites the most frequently is the chihuahua. You don't hear about it because a chihuahua can't rip your arm off. Pit attacks are probably less frequent than a lot of other breeds, but when a pit does attack, it is very, very bad. They have incredible jaws. Their bite is very destructive. If a dog rips off someone's arm or face, or kills someone, then it makes the news. It doesn't mean that all pit bulls are vicious or dangerous. It means, like an AR15, that the potential for great harm exists.

Dog training so police can taser gun them???

What's wrong with a hose, just water them apart!!!

No, pittbulls are not killers.....they are trained to kill... by humans......they can also be trained to obey!!!

Bottom line, excessive unnecessary police force on a couple of unarmed creatures! Did anyone try to look for a large net??? or large towel to cover their heads??? before using real bullets in front of a school??? so that kids/students get panicky one more time, and think the worst???...again....???

Hope these dogs did not have owners, and looking for them!!!.....Very sad.

I worked as a vet tech for years and never once was I attacked or afraid of a pitbull. The owners of the pitbulls in our practice had very loving dogs and they were a joy to work with. However, I was attacked by a boxer, a dalmation, a chow mix, a schnauzer, and some very nasty small dogs. I have battle scars, but I won. We did treat a pitbull that had lost a fight and had been thrown into the bayou to drown while a crowd watched. We were able to save him and he was the most grateful, sweet dog you could imagine. One of our favorite pair of pits got out of their backyard and were shot by police, one died on the spot while we did all we could for the other and we couldn't save him.

Any dog can be a vicious dog from a yorky on up.

No one looks at this situation from the viewpoint of the frontline Officers on the scene. None of us were there trying to handle this situation. We can all sit back in the warm comfort of our sofa/recliner/desk chairs and make Monday morning quarterback judgments as to what "they" should have done. Yeah, yeah, yeah even with a video of the situation, the spin on what was taking place and what was reported to have taken place conflicts with the truth - whatever the truth really is.

The main consideration with "any" altercation which the police are required to respond to is the safe and expedient resolution of any and all conflicts. Is there collateral damage sometimes? Sure. But police training demands that the situation be handled in the smallest area and in the least amount of time and effort possible. In this case, the back of the truck "was" that place. Was the use of multiple shots and a shotgun excessive use of force to quell the situation? Sounds excessive to me, but again I wasn't there making that call. Was the use of firearms the only solution to the situation, again you, me, none of the commentators here were there as participants or eyewitnesses to the event now were we? Why do we as humans have to act so judgemental of the actions of others? Why can we not try to see our brother's viewpoint instead of that our opinion is the only one that matters. What ever happened to the concept of "the benefit of the doubt"? Are all of us so jaded, confused, and mistrustful of everyone else that we see only the bad in people and situations before every thing else?

Believe me when I say that I love animals as much, if not more, than most people in this country, but having said that I care for and love people far far more. Killing two fighting dogs just doesn't stack up against the ruthless slaughter of innocents which takes place all over this country everyday! Where is your passion, concern, and angst being displayed for them? Have some balance in the emotions being poured out for these two dogs whether they were aggressive or passive in the beginning.

Ah, yes, we do love our cops, don't we?

Some cops seem like normal people, right up until they put that holster on. Then that macho-s**t sets in. "I've got a gun and am authorized to use it whenever I feel it's necessary." Then they just wait for a chance.

Gotta love our people. Ain't the guns anymore then it is the pepper spray bud.

Also you can talk about pepper spray, tazers and water hoses but you people are not in charge of keeping the public and these kids safe either. I seriously wonder who called the police, what they were doing before this video? I'm sure they have dealt with this type of thing before and I'm sure they know what they are supposed to do. I think they need to allow the dogs to go nuts and tear up a couple of kids and see what you all think then! I would amost be this was a set up dog fight. Why would this dog be in the back of this truck and why was this other one roaming around or was it on a leash and this was a dog fight set up? This could be one of the ways they do fights. They walk them around people place money on which dog and they are contained in the back of a truck so people can watch. You need to hear all the story other than from some guy standing across the way.

This guy with the sail fone bitchin' about the cops...why didn't he or the other bystanders standing around with their hands on their mouths do something to stop the dog fight?

What? o.O

@Diana, Nuff said.

diana; I think you are missing the point here... its not about someone controlling their dogs Its about the freakin' police controling thier need to shoot thier guns in SCHOOL ZONES or any other area where innocent humans could have been injured or maybe even killed. Folks like you wants so bad to jump on the bad guy. Where, police are humas also and sometimes they are the bad guys. As in this case. Shooting those dogs in this situation was un-called for. They probably just wanted to get back to their freakin' coffee and doughnuts or lunch. The poor fighting doggies were holding them up, so, why not just shoot them and get it over with? They are only dogs.

Amen, you nailed it right on the head diana.

@diana-3862220

learn to control your dogs so others don't have too.

How much more controlled than on a leash in the back of a truck would you desire Your Majesty? Reading comprehension isn't your strong point I take it. By the way, you would be well served to learn the difference between "too" and "to".

The dog in the back of the truck might have been on a leash but not the one jumping into the back of the truck so comprehension in general is not your strong suit! I think there is more to this story then what we have heard from this guy taking the video too. All this yammering about spraying bullets is crap too. I watched the video just like everyone else. They are shooting into the back of the truck not all over the place. You would be singing a different tune if a kid was torn up! Pretend that you think these dogs are just sweet lap dogs while they are ripping through some kid!

@ Olddog47

How much more controlled than on a leash in the back of a truck would you desire Your Majesty?

Um, you did realize there were two dogs involved, right? One was not controlled. Check the attitude, dude.

I agree this should not have happened. Animal control could have used tranquilizer darts to stop those dogs. Opening fire in front of a school was wrong. These are the people who want better gun control. Its time for training not more laws. Send these guys back to the academy for proper training.

How about sending them to jail? You can't fix someone with no morals.

Animal control could have used tranquilizer darts to stop those dogs.

It said in the story that animal control was unavailable...wow, people just read what they want to so they can justify their preconceived conclusions.

Thats pathetically funny,, it really made me think... at least don't call PA PD... what if...

The cops of today are out to get you ,Money to be made putting people in jail. And they love to use there guns.

I will.

Yeah if I remember correctly they tried to play it off as if the Elk was aggressive once they'd been discovered.

No, all of them are inhuman trash...like my group name says, abolish the blue shirts!!

That incident in Boulder wasn't even close to being as insane as this incident! The cops in Boulder resigned from the force and are facing charges, jpoochoo. You have to wonder what they were thinking to pull such a thing in Boulder, CO! If it was someplace normal they would have been kicked off the force but people wouldn't have marched in a candlelit vigil for an wild animal that should not have been living in city limits in the first place. It was blown way out of proportion since it was Boulder. They are getting contributions to put up a monument for the dead elk and people in town said that the elk was their protector and hero! So not a good comparison at all from you. I can't see the people of Philadelphia putting up a statue of two dogs fighting. Just discipline the stupid cops and set new policy to make sure this doesn't happen in the future.

The elk was a male that was well known and respected for its presence there. It was a very beautiful creature and if you know it's value or lived within Colorado at all you'd respect it to. It was not blown out of proportion at all. Try living here.

I do live there. I do respect wildlife. It didn't belong in city limit, as majestic as it was it belonged somewehre else more wild. The idiots that bagged it will never work in law enforcement again and have had charges filed against them. They shouldn't have killed it, but a statue for an elk, come on!

sam4ever,

Yeah, right.

This shooting dogs in front of a school story is reason #490,206,115 that I'll choose Boulder over a "normal" sh!t-hole like Philly any day!

This wasn't the case. But I know what your saying.

You do know that they are paid to PROTECT PEOPLE. They are not paid to get their hand torn off in a dog fight or take a chance that these dogs will attack a kid on the way to school. You people are a bunch of scary freaks. I think they should let the next ones go and see what happens. So what if they hurt someone. Don't call the police if you see dogs tearing up someone. Don't even do it! Too F'in bad I say! You better watch what you wish for.

What makes you think they are paid to protect people? Thats a common misconception propogated by the media and Hollywood,friend.The police are law enforcement officers by job description,which means their primary task is enforcing the local law and punishing/arresting those who break it.That motto "To protect and serve" which you hardly see anymore BTW,is referring to them protecting the laws and serving the community ie their bosses,or elected officials.Granted,there are some good cops out there who have taken on the role of protecting the citizens from harm,but thats by choice not by decree,they are not trained or instructed to do that.Also I think the possibility of a ricochet hitting a bystander is much more likely than the chance that these dogs were some kind of public menace ,just waiting to happen.

and punishing/arresting those who break it.

An officers job is not to punish and equating arresting with punishing doesn't make any sense. The "punishment" comes from the judicial system...

you represent the core pf our nation. ya ever heard of growin a set.

oh yeah, SanJuan, take the blame and shift it a little. Why not put the blame where it actually belongs?

Yes, the dog owners have some responsibility here, but so does the cops. If your son and another kid happen to be fighting in the streets, would you accept cops coming along and shooting them? Then, you as a parent just bare the blame for not being a more responsible parent? Yeah, now its sinking in! idiotic is idiotic! Cops should be trained to think prior to pulling their guns. Every situation in life does not require a gun to solve it. But, in a gun-happy society as the United States... what else should you expect?

I don't get that statement; Take responsibility for your animals!

I'm not defending the owner of the stray dog.. However dogs do break their leashes, dogs do bolt out of the house when a door is opened, dogs do burrow under the fence, dogs do eat through their wooden fences.

The real issue here is that the PD discharged their WEAPONS in a inappropriate manner.

What were the many options?

Baton? That not work well?

@Anita

1. pepper spray

2. Nonlethal bullet

3. Taser Gun

4. Bull Horn

5. Baton

6. fire extinguisher

7. fire a blank

There is your list of options other than a bullet

So you want to mess with an enraged pitbull with a baton? After you do that let us know if they are able to reattach your arm.

Most beat cops don't carry non lethal bullets, of bullhorns,or blanks.

I have tried to break up pit bull/doberman fights with sticks, water hoses, and even pepper spray. The dogs didn't give a ****, they were hell bent on being dogs and just kept fighting. I even broke a 2x2 over the back of a doberman only to have him turn and give me a "and what did you think you were going to do with that stick now?" look. I got bit twice for my "humane" efforts. My dog was in my back yard minding his own business, too. Bad owners.

I think shooting the dogs was probably justified. Once they are fighting, they don't stop. Once the animal got away, the next pedestrian was likely going to get bit. It may sound like an over-reaction, but say that to the little kid with scars on his face because the dog got him first.

It is hard to hit a moving animal so I can see shooting multiple times. The shotgun may have been used to put the wounded animal out of its misery. None of us were there so hard to say given what was written. However, I don't think a callous cop would be visibly upset after killing a rogue dog. Seems he didn't think he had any other option.

Could have called Michael Vick and made bets.

main option they had is the one item the have 24/7 they hands so what one of them may have got a bite lol .and navyqmcs i have many times grabbed an enraged pit-bull and seconds later had him licking his lips admitting defeat without ever trying to hurt him. there are options

If your too ignorant to handle dogs properly than yes keep your pistol handy. If your a wuss then yes, keep your pistol handy.

Go Navy!

Someone about halfway though this page noted that whistles will stop dogs. The high pitch really hurts their very sensitive ears. I would add that to the list of options shortly above my comment here.

How about being fired or paying a huge fine to the owners of the dogs.

Be prepared to get injured if you try to break up a dog fight. I had a 125 pit-mastiff cross attack my dog and, even as person who has owned and loved dogs all my life, I was not stupid enough to get in there and break it up. Those dogs were moving so fast no-one could have gotten in there to tase or shoot just one. My dog almost died AND a month later the offending dog savaged his owner who was trying to get it off the couch. The guy needed 50 stitches. All of you responders who are so offended. The media has won. They have their audience.

I want to see just ONE of these brave people talking about breaking up the fight get out there and do it! You willing to have finger lost or your hand or how about a kids hand or fingers trying to stop a fight. I dont' think so! You have no room to talk if your not willing to do it or you were not there to do it! I'm sure they have dealt with this type of thing before and I bet there is way more to the story then you heard here. Stop being ignorant!

I find that hard to believe. If you could, please direct us to a news write-up.

I watched the TV interview with the cricket. Poor thing was so nervous all it could do was rub it's legs together and squeak.

Razr1 and Ace-312731

Your comments made me laugh. Thanks for that.

HUMOR AR AR ,,,, u @!$%#

gomermcgregor-

Really? LOL. You have been reported. Hope they ban you. Have a great day sunshine!

• atta boy jonathan well put !!!!!!!!!!

Give em a pat on the head and a group hug?

LOL i expect the cops to reach in grab the dogs and separate them it is that simple. i guess your a cat owner arnt you

I expect them to try shooting in the air first.

Actually, shooting in the air in a populated area is quite dangerous, since the bullet remains on a ballistic trajectory, and could injure or kill someone when it falls back down. However, instead of killing both dogs, I would have tried pepper spray, and if that didn't work, I would have just shot the pit bull.

Citizen -

And you would go visit "officer stumpy" living on disability, right?

Pres. Obama should have invited all parties involved over for a beer first.

The "one that looked like a pit bull" is actually the dog that was restrained in the truck bed. The initiator of the fight was a stray (or at least a dog without owner present, and not on a leash as required) that jumped into the truck bed and started to mix it up.

At least, that is, if we are to believe that what very few facts are presented here are accurate.

how do you know that the police officers didn't try pepper spray? News sites only report on the facts of the news that sells. They are making a big deal out of this because they know that "Everybody in north america has more police training then a police officer". I mean that every one has an opinion and every one thinks they could of done the job better. Ever stop and think they put the aggressor dog down, then realized that the dog in the truck wasn't going to recover from injuries? They are probably being humane.

I understand what you are saying about a dog fight ruthie, but you didn't shoot the dogs did you. The problem that seems to be growing is that police officers show up at a scene (sometimes the wrong scene) and too often they cannot discern the safety of a situation with dogs.

I believe ALL emergency responders; Police, Fire, Paramedics; should all receive a reasonable level of education about animals in general, and dogs specifically who may be present at a scene. I've seen first hand how fast a police officer escalates a situation where a dog is present because they don't know jack squat about reading a dogs body language, much less their vocalizations. A bark isn't always an angry bark; a sniff isn't always from a dog about to bite, and a dog moving toward you doesn't always mean aggression. But emergency responders ARE just like other people, not always educated about animals, sometimes being fearful of dogs, maybe not really suited for a "cold call" situation - even a "low level" call because their anxiety or fear of the unknown is too amped.

This was a difficult situation, but an officer trained to read body language could have determined the aggressor (not always the bigger dog in every case), and like others noted, tried other methods like pepper spray, water, fire extinquisher, throwing a tarp over the dogs... before resorting to a deadly weapon.

I also agree, the owner of the dog that attacked should be held responsible for any and all damage, cost of the police call, the other owners loss of their dog, etc. The sad thing is that we don't know what triggered the one dog to attack the other.. was the dog in the truck acting in a way that is provocative to another dog?? Why was it left unattended in the truck? and for how long? couldn't either owner have heard what was going on while the call was made to the police and time elapsed for them to arrive?

We expect a lot of our police officers, and we expect them to be always professional and act in a controlled and fair manner to all. Not all decisions they make are sound or reasonable, but we should make sure they have the training, just like their weapon use training, to deal with common situations.

So if the Police Officers really even thought for even just a second.... just a second - assessed their environment and the conditions surrounding the situation. Hmmm..

This is contained in the back of this pickup truck.

Why not pull the truck out and away from the high school?

This is a DOG Fight - Not an Attack on a Person!

Where exactly was the Public Safety Threat?

Certainly NOT the DOGs beating the Crap out of each other - ONLY THE IDIOTS with the GUNS!

I'm sorry but this is clear IDIOCY & they all need to be FIRED! & FINED!

We expect the Average Citizen to be Responsible & this is Our Upstanding Role Models?!

This is EXACTLY the kind of ISSUES that are TURNING this COUNTRY to CRAP!

Dumb ass.

hey spitfire. you are assessing a situation that you where not even present for and clearly not trained for. so go suck a cock u mother @!$%#er.

Ruthie, thank you for presenting a reasonable point of view. It disgusts me how many people commenting on this story are making assumptions that cops just want a reason to use their guns whenever they want. We don't know all the facts of this story. What if one of the dogs was rabid?

as a dog owner and former attack dog trainer i will give you some advice. grab the wound up dog just behind his lips or on his cheek bone lift him off the ground turn him on his back and hold him there. if he doesn't settle rt away lightly tap the back off his head on the ground 2 or 3 times this will make him lick his lips and once he does this just separate him for the other dog for a short time. this can be done with all breads of dogs all the way up to a mastiff. don't ever think a dog needs to be killed he can be reconditioned. dogs can be taught no matter what age they are it just sometimes takes time.

where the @!$%# were you when needed. @!$%#ing dog whisperer mother @!$%#er.

Well Anita, a point well taken, but what it had been a child, would the police have shot them both?

I'm sorry there young lady but wasn't the owner a female and the other one a so called stray? the cops should have separated those dogs by hand. as you can see there were 2 officers so no reason why they couldn't have used they hands oh wait these are cops they don't know how to solve anything with out jail or guns. the lady should have called the sheriffs dept they are still peace officers now law dictators like the city kitties

I would love to see you step into the middle of a dog fight, after the pitpull tears your throat out we can give you a Darwin Award.

I have before still here no scars on me , kick one grab the other problem solved

" the cops should have separated those dogs by hand." HUH? WTH kind of thought process is that? The cop should risk getting bit and seperate them by hand???????? Wow

"ohwell-1824629

" the cops should have separated those dogs by hand." HUH? WTH kind of thought process is that? The cop should risk getting bit and seperate them by hand???????? Wow"

Yeah, I read that and thought.."that comment is just way too dumb to even respond to." What's worse is the knuckle heads who agreed.

ya jackass hines. thats exactly what would have happened. then they would have backed over ur dumb@!$%# head multiple times doing all of america a favor.

I agree with Antia. As for jack hines, you are comparing apples to oranges. you cannot compare animals to children.

allisor if they left the dogs fighting until animal control got there you would be saying they are being cruel to the animals. Insulting the men and women who put their lives on the line for you is by far stupider then putting two uncontrolled dogs down.

I agree with Anita. As for Jack Hines you are comparing apples to oranges. It is not wise to insult the men and women who could be one day the difference between you living and you ding. And for gomermcgregor why are you swearing so much man. i get that you are probably frustrated but insulting and swearing at people does not solve anything, it just makes people more upset

Nothing wrong with killing the pit bull that attacked the smaller dog. It would have been nice if the other dog had survived though.

yea i guess

simple answer, yes.

You've got it wrong. The "dog that looked like a pit bull" was restrained in its owner's truck. The dog that caused the trouble was unrestrained, no owner nearby, and possibly not on a leash either; the item doesn't say.

Yep and wiping their behinds with them and so on it's the so called american way being obsessed with guns

its not the american way but it is how the police handle things

bet ya that school was a ' gun free zone ' too. too close for comfort. but anything is allright for our lords and masters with badges and guns. This is just a preview of what the ever worsening behavior of cops will be like after we are all disarmed, i guess. wake up america

and its the owners fault that a stray jumped in his truck? you sir, are a @!$%#tard.

I was thinking the same thing.

They could have used other means of force but obviously they weren't smart enough to think of it. I don't believe safety was on their minds either.

I came hear to say the same thing, though my slant was a question about idiots who had never heard of pepper spray. A temporarily blinded dog can't put up much of a fight. Then you can control it by wrapping a belt around its neck--or maybe just waiting for animal control to arrive to control each dog even better. But stupid is as stupid does!

Jack Booted thugs, they were not in immenent danger nor was any citizen! Is the prerequisite for being a cop a low IQ...and then again, the dogs were probably black, just an inate reaction to the color!

"Neale Osborn

All I can say is that if a stray dog jumps into MY pickup and starts fighting with MY dog, the cops better not shoot MY dog, or I'll be shoting a few cops."

LOL - I couldn't possibly think of a faster way to get to your new career as a prison bitch!

they didnt have pepper spray?