Some people are either cat lovers or dog lovers with no-in betweens and she sounds like she’s not really “into” dogs on any level.

I hope you can find a way to resolve the situation and much luck to you in doing so.

I agree with you. Being a pet owner myself (I’ve owned cats as well), I understand the pain of losing a pet. But the expression was a little overwhelming for us, not to mention, extremely embarrassing because of the public nature it took.

@ Chris

You’re right, we should put them on leash. They are usually very well behaved but yes, there’s no reason for others to take our word for it. In fact, that is what we are doing now. And yes, they are neutered. We always make sure we get all the dogs that we rescue, are neutered.

@ Ferox

Thank you so much for your concern. You hit the nail right on the head.

In the past, we have come across instances of dogs being poisoned by humans because they “bark too much” (yes, the level of awareness about animals, and people’s attitudes towards them is very poor here). It isn’t too difficult to slip in something through the gate when someone is not looking.

In fact, Avik Noronha, who is a frequent guest writer on this blog lost one of his dogs when someone slipped a biscuit laced with poison through the gap under the door to his apartment.

It’s difficult to stay calm under the circumstances.

Let your neighbours meet your dogs, perhaps when they’ve calmed down a bit. It’s a lot harder to go through with a threat to kill when you’ve met the animal and discovered that it is actually friendly.

Ask a vet to autopsy the cat. Dog victims generally have teeth marks, tearing injuries, internal bruising from being shaken and sometimes are just torn up. If his by a car, there’s usually one impact and the associated fractures/crushing/bleeding.

If you’re unsure, warn other dog owners about the event. If you se meat left own on the street, dispose of it in case it has been poisoned.

I will return if I think of more.

I would keep your dogs in your yard or in your house. You can always walk them on a leash for them to get the extra exercise they may be missing from running around the neighborhood. Do some training with them to improve their “call back” and concentration so they come to you when called.

Also, if they are not neutered (i am sure they are but if they aren’t…), it is a good time to do it. If they are getting into a scrap with another dog, they are less likely to behave that way.

Your neighbor may just be very upset and they may calm down eventually, but in the meantime, keep your dogs close – don’t give anyone any reason to think they are wandering the neighborhood or out of your control at any time.

I have no idea what to do, but maybe call the local humane society and see if they have any suggestions.