Letter to the Editor

February 23, 2003

Dear Editor,

On February 7, 2003 AMary@ and her Service Dog, Trooper, were shopping at the Mall of America when a 300+ pound man, apparently developmentally disabled, broke away from his caregivers and attacked this unsuspecting team.  The man grabbed at Trooper and chased the terrified dog around Mary=s power wheelchair to the end of his leash where he began kicking at Trooper until his caregivers gained control over him.

Trooper, a 70-pound, Golden Retriever/Lab cross, is specially trained to open doors, retrieve objects, pay at counters and perform many other tasks to allow Mary to lead a more independent life.  Thousands of dollars and volunteer hours worth of resources and training were poured into this dog.  Due to this event, Trooper now shakes in fear whenever he enters a public place and can no longer be Mary=s helper.  In a matter of seconds, this priceless relationship was destroyed.

The general public needs to recognize that all users of Assistance Dogs are vulnerable to attacks by individuals as well as by uncontrolled pet dogs.  Either a human or a loose dog attack can cause an Assistance Dog significant physical or psychological harm, forcing the dog into early retirement when unable to continue its very important function.

A bill increasing penalties for irresponsible acts concerning harm done to an Assistance Dog (Senate File 310, Senator Wiger) is being considered this year.  The bill needs House sponsorship.  Please call your representatives and request support of this bill.

Alan Peters

Executive Director

Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota

2537 - 25^th Avenue South

Minneapolis, MN 55406

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Last updated on March 13, 2003
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