All too often, when an officer is on a call of any type, an innocent animal is shot and killed. Many times, the explanation is that the pet charged at the police, causing an instant premonition to shoot, leaving a pet dead. Such is the situation recently in Orange County, Florida. Whatever the reasoning for the officers being called to the home, a four-year old dog was shot and killed.
The call appeared not to be an emergency and the police did not arrive to the home of Ms. Jones until Sunday. She left her home in the morning and no one was at home at the time the officers allegedly arrived; neighbors also told them there was no one home. So they proceeded to kick in the door while the pet dog was understandably protecting his home. The deputies at the time shot and killed the dog named Itchygo.
Such a situation happens quite too often and whether we know all the facts in the case or not, we need to ensure that all officers, sheriffs, deputies and other law enforcement personalities are well aware, educated and trained on how to handle and control potentially hostile, aggressive animals when on a call. There is no need to shoot to kill the pets (that are often family members) rather than learn other humane methods of restraining and controlling them until animal control or other professionals arrive. Killing the animals should not be the option! You can help us in these efforts by signing and sharing this petition.
Orange County, FL Police Chief – It is sad that the dog, Itchygo had to be shot and killed when officers went to a home to investigate when the owners were not at home. The door was kicked in upon entry and when the dog was protecting his home, he was shot and killed. There is no reason that animals should be shot for doing what comes natural. Too many animals are shot and killed for no real legitimate reason when officers are on call. We are urging you to fully train and educate all your law enforcement officers on how to handle aggressive and hostile pets when out on a call. It should be a requirement by all authorities with a gun to ensure that better, more humane methods of handling pets are followed to assure the safety of pets when out on a police call.
