The Perils of Barking
Dear Frankie,
My mom has a hearing impairment. So, I have been trained to bark to let her know when someone comes to the door or walks into our driveway.
The other day, a lady walked by my house when I was sunning myself in the driveway, so I barked at her. She began screaming and ran into the street in front of an approaching car. The driver slammed on his brakes and missed her by inches. My mom came out to see what was going on.
Before my mom could say anything, the lady said she intended to report me to the police and the dog officer because I was a danger to society. My mom tried to explain that I barked because of her handicap. She then apologized for my barking and promised that she would keep me on the back porch. The lady said it was a little late for that and intended to register a complaint.
Am I going to be arrested, Frankie?
Caroline
Dear Caroline,
What an unfortunate event for all involved. What started with an innocent bark ended with a frightened woman, a terrified driver, a misunderstood mother, and an anxious dog.
If you are reported, I don’t think you have much to worry about from a legal point of view. You were on your property when you barked; you didn’t growl, rush at her, or bite her. The lady chose to run in the street without looking. She could have caused some serious damage to herself physically and to the driver emotionally.
I suggest your mom call the dog officer and provide your side of the story before the lady files her complaint.
Best, Frankie
© 2023 Geneva Woodruff
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