tacran
Posted : 9/26/2006 12:22:48 AM
Oh Missy, my heart breaks for your friends. What a terrible tragedy! The sudden loss of Duke would be enough of a blow if it were at the hands of someone else's dog or a car, etc. But to know another beloved pet hurt him is one of the worst things I can even imagine. I can't think of a single comforting thing to say. I can understand their emotional conflict over what to do about Chloe -- none of the options seem acceptable - rehoming her or euthanizing her. But, I'm sure they don't want to assume she won't hurt another dog or person in the household.
It's so unusual to hear about a mastiff (Bull- or English) intentionally lashing out. Obviously, all breeds can bite or attack, especially if they've been neglected or abused in their early years or if they're ill or in pain. But based on what we learned when researching our Bullmastiff's breed standards years ago, they were bred to be guard dogs, but generally speaking, their instinct is to knock down and "hold" their "prey," not to bite and attack. It sounds like there could be some extenuating circumstances for your friends - they had no way of knowing Chloe's full family history, and perhaps her own health is an issue to her temperament.
Regardless of the reasons behind it (and they may never know), it's an absolutely devastating situation -- again, I can't think of anything to say other than to extend my deepest sympathy. I'll keep all of them in my thoughts.
Run free, Duke. Remember the love you received in your home with your family all those years, not the fear you likely faced at the end. And don't be afraid of a big boy named Tonka who's at the Bridge. He's a gentle soul and has an especially soft spot for tiny dogs. He'll be your friend.