Tragic story - baby mauled by family dog

[Rollinlucky]

I have raised Akitas for over 18 years now, each with it's own personality. The one and only one we have now (we used to have 5), ironically hates bikes. One of my biggest fears has been that she will get out and maul a child. We are all very cautious of leaving any doors or gates open. I have 4 boys of my own and the thought of that happening is just unimaginable. As it has been stated several times, supervision is a must. We never leave our sons, 5 and 11, alone with Chancy. I honestly don't think she would ever do them harm, but all it takes is a spilt second. Another thing I have learned over the years is to learn to "read" your dogs. They really do give subtle warnings. I feel so bad for the young mom. Can't imagine how she must feel when just thinking of it makes my stomach turn to say the least. God bless her.

[alimey]

I have a dog & she is the sweetest & gentlest thing. I have put hours & hours of training into her & she meets new, sometimes very young children almost every day. She has never shown any sign of aggression or fear around children. HOWEVER - I would never leave her along w/ a child. Really there are a couple of reasons for this - firstly I want to protect her from the child - who knows how the child might provoke the dog - it's just not fair on the dog. Also, whilst I trust her, she isn't human and I would not be able to live with myself if anything happened - even a tiny nip. Plus, I would feel extremely embarrassed in front of the parents. Plus, I could never feel quite the same about her again. So I think very little is to be gained by leaving her alone with a child, and there is a great deal to be lost. I want her to be an ambassador for dog-kind and help fearful kids be better around dogs - I don't need to test her in an uncontrollable situation. My trainer says 'always set the dog up for success' - so I want to make sure I am there whenever she is exposed to kids.