Local governments must take steps against vicious dogs

(Updated Sunday, January 30, 2005, 6:33 AM)

In a letter Jan. 25, Bernard Stepanek recounts how he was attacked, knocked down, and bitten by a vicious dog in northwest Fresno. A young man was similarly attacked by the same dog soon afterward. Apparently, law enforcement personnel were either unable or unwilling to compel the owner of the dog to confine or control it.

Recently, I have talked to several friends who have had the same experience with vicious dogs. My young friend, Tyler Babcock, was killed as the result of an attack by three dogs.

We have a Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and it serves a good purpose. However, we also need a society for the prevention of cruelty to victims of dog attacks.

I challenge the city councils and the Fresno County Board of Supervisors to enact strict laws for the protection of citizens from dog attacks -- and enforce the laws that are enacted.

Newell P. Knudson, Clovis

Last updated 05/04/05