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Charles L. Cotton wrote: While it may not be conclusive at this point, hip dysplasia is definitely a major factor as to whether it was reasonable to think the dog was a threat. I've had two dogs (both German Shepherds) that had this common big dog malady. When symptoms first appeared, the dogs could pretty much move normally. As it progressed, they were like old men/women with severe arthritis. Getting up was a slow and painful process and running was a thing of the past. Through it all however, they would still bark and could sound menacing. If this dog was in an advanced stage of the disease, he would have done little more than lay on his bed and bark, possibly rising up on his front legs but not getting up, at least not quickly. Even at the moderate stage, the dog would not have been capable of sudden movements. There's no clear evidence if the dog was already standing when the officers came in, but bullet holes in the futon he used as a bed is an indication he was laying down. If the alarm was still sounding when they arrived and if the dog was laying in his bed, then it is an indication the hip dysplasia was more advanced.

This case is significantly different from others that have been in the news. LEOs were answering a burglar alarm call undoubtedly thinking it was another of the 99% that are false alarms. Upon arriving, they probably saw an open door and that changed the nature of the call significantly. If this were the only case reported, I don't think most people would questions the officers' action. However, it's not the first case, it's just the latest of many reported dog shootings and that is what I think has people so upset.

Chas.