Frightening experience shared

To the editor,

Leash laws were created for the protection of the individuals in our community and also for the welfare of the animals.

Aug. 8, 2009, during my routine walk to the Jonesboro Library, I was hunted down and attacked by two dogs. No words can express the terror I felt as their prey.

It took three days to find and cage the dogs. The dog that bit the back of my right thigh was a 150-pound bull mastiff. His partner was a 120-pound female bull mastiff. The court declared them vicious and they were euthanized. Their demise was not because of the bite, but due to the viciousness of the attack.

Dogs were taken away from a family and I lost my freedom and peace of mind to go for a walk in this community. I now carry pepper spray and am not relaxed until I make it back home safely. I will overcome this, but it will take time.

None of this had to happen. A simple chain could have prevented it all. I hope that by telling you my experience, people will take a fresh look at why we have this law and will abide by it for everyone’s safety.

My sincere thanks to the following people:

Rocky Smith stopped on the highway and called the necessary authorities for me.

Karen Hallam, the Jonesboro librarian took me to the hospital. Travis Trexler, the animal control officer, worked countless hours to find the dogs and kept me informed. David Wilkins, our finest Jonesboro police officer, did excellent police work in finding the dogs and interviewing people of interest.

I am very proud to be a resident of Jonesboro, where people pull together to help each other. Words don’t seem enough. Thank you so much everyone.

Signed, Robin J. Lacy, Jonesboro