Dear Colleen Lynn,
As the parents of a child who endured a disfiguring near-death mauling by a pit bull terrier, I can't begin to express my gratitude by your founding Dogsbite.org. A lifelong dog enthusiast myself, I have also been concerned when mans best friend is bred to the extremes. That concern was realized in the nightmare our innocent 10-year old son endured -- the carnage an extremely ill bred dog can bring. My interest in both animals, dogs in particular, and my love for children moved me to public protection and victims' advocacy. I have been involved and often relied upon Dogsbite.org for guidance in the criminal and civil aspects of our ongoing ordeal that began over four years ago. Throughout this time and currently, I again rely upon you and the information collected on Dogsbite.org to compel public officials to see that this issue is not one of dog owners rights, but one that is a monolithic public health, welfare and safety threat.
My wife Irene and I both wanted to take the time to say that while your detractors are adversarial, well organized and effective at getting their message out, their legions are small. Ironically, their small pack and "big bark" crusade borders on vacuous in comparison to the vastly more representative concerns you address on behalf of the public on Dogsbite.org (you've got real bite).
Keep fighting the good fight. God bless.
Anthony and Irene Solesky
Towson, Maryland
Related articles:
10/15/11: Announcement: Happy Birthday DogsBite.org and Gratitude from a Reader
01/31/11: Parent of Mauling Victim Responds to North Carolina Pit Bull Fatality
03/10/10: Dangerous By Default: Extreme Breeds by Anthony Solesky
there are few people i admire as much as Colleen Lynn.
Ditto, Dawn. I credit her with saving my life. Had I not found her, I would be sitting with a pit bull in my home right now. I realize now just how lucky I have been picking up all those stray pits off the streets. I still do that only I am a lot more careful now. Can't leave them on the streets and take chances on another child being mauled. Thanks, Colleen, you will win in the long haul because truth is on your side.