Dog Will Be Muzzled But at What Cost, Resident Asks

The following is a letter to the editor: 

The menacing dog on Shelley Road will now be muzzled while walking in the neighborhood. Great News! But at what cost? Neighbors came together out of fear.  The definition of fear is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat. This fear was felt by children, dog walkers, non dog walkers, and seniors. No one wanted to witness or be involved in another tragic event on our street. This victory has cost neighborly friendships that have not been reinstated or perhaps never will.

The good, bad, and ugly came out during this issue. Neighbors came together with principles that were pursed without fear of retaliation in the political echelon of Springfield. The bad that came out was this should never ever have been an issue amongst friends or neighbors in the first place. Safety of oneself or of family is a major desire in life whether living in Springfield, New Jersey or Afghanistan.   

Sometimes false pride can cloud anyone's judgment, even my own. The ugly that came out is the half truths by public officials you believe you can count on them if needed. I am highly disappointed in the Police Chief! I would hope in the future that Mr. Cook, Police Chief, will cite the total picture and not just the landscaping on a subject. I am still looking to meet with Mr. Cook since October 23, 2013. Mr. Shehady's accusation of "false statement" towards me was totally inaccurate and I proved it. For Mr. Shehady, I hope in this coming year, you develop a little humility and respect for your opposing constituents before being inaccurate and citing "false statements." People have and can win or lose an election by just a very few votes. 

The owners of the menacing dog decided before arbitration to muzzle their dog. They gave a written letter stating the dog would always be muzzled while walking in the neighborhood. I truly wish this would have been the case long before a petition had to be written. The learning curve is this - one never knows the conviction or strength of an individual for safety, justice, or ideals until tested. I adore my two dogs and had speak for them and out of my own fear. I find it an outrage in this day and age that a dog owner is only responsible for the back end (of picking up for a dog) while the front end can do much more damage. I would like to see a state law that after any dog being involved in a deadly attack be muzzled while on public property. This was not about singling out individual(s) but out of real fear!

Gale Donner