Question by Gonzo: How to stop kids throwing rocks at dog, Faifax VA?
2 kids approximately 7-10 years old have been coming onto my property to throw rocks and sticks at my dog, which traumatizes her. I yelled at them once and they were back 10 minutes later doing it again. I yelled at them again, and they laughed and walked off. I then filed a police report, and the animal control officer informed me the only recourse I had to was find out where they lived by following them home. He acknowledged I might be in trouble myself if I am caught doing this. If I find out where they live he said he could go and have a talk with the parents, and this would resolve the issue. However to me this sounds like I am setting myself up for further retaliation and months of paranoia over watching my dog. He also suggested I build a fence inside of my current fence to keep the kids further from the dog. None of these are acceptable solutions to me, I am currently researching if there are any other non-passive steps I can take to ensure my dog is no longer tortured by these delinquents. I cannot believe that trespassing and animal cruelty is something I cannot defend my dog against in my own yard.    Read more...