[Hopp]

Red,

I just heard about this story today from our secretary. Her daughter-n-law (in her 30's) grew up next door to the woman who was killed...her parents were there when it happened, and we got a first hand story from them, and I am sick sick sick from it. What are the local athorities doing about it?

Here in San Antonio, we have lots of issues with pitbulls being bread to fight. It's a horable thing. We hear frequent stories about people being attacked, but seldome of death. What a sickning way to die.

I have a Lab and an akita. I was told when my akita was a pup that they "can" become somewhat agressive in their older age. Sooo, I was teaching kindergarten at teh time at a private school. I brought my akita with me at least 3 days a week to school. Now he LOVES kids, lays down to be pet when little ones are in our home, and doesn't ever mind being pulled on...sat on...what ever when it is a little person. I will say however that I keep a close eye on my "babies" when children are in our home. While I truly feel in my heart they would never never hurt a child (or anyone for that matter), I am cautious where children are concerned. I think that every responsible owner of any type of pet owes that to visiting children. We assume nothing, and always ask permission to have them in the house when friends bring their kids over...we just never assume that their comfort or trust levels are the same as ours.

I love the idea of you introducing your daughter to a pet that has been raised with love and is mellow. It isn't healthy to have a huge fear like that of animals, and as she grows up it will only intensify. I think it is healthy however to have a cautious attitude around dogs. Anyway...I think interaction with a friendly dog is a wonderful idea.