Street Talk by Shari Kaplan

How do you feel about the recent incident that occurred next to the Los Alamitos trail where an American bulldog attacked and killed a Norwich terrier puppy and bit the dog's owner?

(Asked along the Creek Trail)

“The dog killed another dog, so I think it's a civil suit. The bulldog's owner should be responsible for paying damages. I wonder if maybe the little dog did something that set the bulldog off? If the bulldog goes up to another dog and person and attacks without provocation, I think it should probably be put down. But it's not as bad as the situation where that pit bull in San Francisco killed that woman.”

Cary Salsberg , 60

Almaden Valley

Retired software engineer

“I think the owner should definitely be held liable for the dog's actions, just like a parent is for their child. I think the dog should be required to go through intense behavioral training, with its owner. If the [bad] behavior continues, then I think the dog should be sent to the pound. I'm a pet owner so I'm sensitive about not putting the dog to sleep, but I understand why some people feel that way.”

Marie Huang , 24

Almaden Valley

Marketing manager

“I'm sorry, but the dog should be put down. It had a chance not to attack; it wasn't provoked and it wasn't acting in self-defense. I think a dog like that living this close to people and other dogs should only have one chance. I'd be worried you couldn't trust it in the future. Also, if your fence is in disrepair or if you left the gate open, you should be liable if your dog gets out.”

David Paul IV , 42

Blossom Valley

Construction project manager

“The owner should definitely compensate her financially, to take care of her medical expenses and maybe even help her buy another dog. I'd be devastated to know that I caused harm to another person's dog. The bulldog needs to be kept carefully under control. I wouldn't want to do away with him, but I think his owner should be more wary of something like this happening again.”

Rosa Feldman , 59 (and Annabelle)

Almaden Valley

Music teacher

“Even if the bulldog was given a second chance, you don't know if he might attack again. I think the bulldog should be kept inside the home or the yard. The people should at least watch the dog. I don't think people should have a dog if they can't care for it and control it. Also, I think even if the owner replaces the woman's terrier, it'll never be the same, because she'll never get that same personality again.”

Yutaka Yamamoto , 13

Almaden Valley

Middle school student

“Any time you're in the world, whether among people or people and animals, things can hurt you. I don't think any dog is intrinsically mean, although there are some breeds to be wary of. Ultimately, it's the owner's responsibility to keep control of their dog and to know the dog and its disposition. If they do that, most of these situations could be eliminated.”

Steve Shapro , 53 (and Keri)

Blossom Valley

Credit union staff