Dog Attack
By: Joe Griffin
Updated: January 28, 2009
A SW Lubbock County man shot and killed one of five dogs that swarmed and attacked his small dog on Monday.Billy Burns of the 8700 block of CR 7635 said this is the second time he has lost his pet to packs of dogs that his neighbors refuse to properly fence.
"These dogs have been running loose here for months," said Burns. "We've talked to the owners. They won't do anything about it. They just tell us to mind our own business." "We're going to have to tighten it up," said Menchaca. "Create some laws and ordinances to control that issue and address that."
Burns' dog was attacked by two shepherd breed dogs, two pitbulls and a mixed breed.
Burns was bitten by one of the pits when he tried to save his dog. He then shot killed it with his shotgun.
Lubbock Sheriff's deputies said Burns was within his legal right to use deadly force against the dogs.
Captain Tony Menchaca said irresponsible animal owners are a becoming a serious problem now that the county is becoming more populated.
Members of the Lubbock County Commissioners Court have pledged to create new ordinances this year.
Commissioners Bill McCay and Patty Jones have already met with the Lubbock Sheriff's Office about future plans.
Burns said he he feels until people take responsibility he still fears problems with the neighborhood dogs.
"What about our 3-year-old daughter?" asked Burns. "Do I have to wait till the dog is attacking her before we consider it threatening?"
