Q: We have three dogs that are inside and outside dogs. During the day, we have them outside playing while we are at work. The problem we have is not with the dogs, but with the utility company that came to work in my backyard last week. Two of my dogs are very friendly, but one is very bad (Teaky). The utility man approached without warning, ducked into the backyard, and was trapped because Teaky would not allow him to move from the gas meter. I was sick at home and had to rescue the worker. He threatened my dog and said that if he got close he would hit him with the wrench. How do I keep utility people off my property? Who should I report him for his threat? I think he should lose his job since he was trespassing. Lori in Oklahoma City, OK.
A: Lori – Lori – Lori … The truth is, your utility worker wasn’t really trespassing. Most states have passed laws to protect public workers who, by definition of their jobs, need to enter your backyard or walk through your front yard, etc. The truth is that dogs assault them daily and they need to be protected just as much as you do. His dog was doing his job, as was the utility person. Good combination!
Since you are located in Oklahoma, you should know that your state passed HB2813 in 2006, which protects these professionals against dog attacks and dictates a punishment to the dog owner who allows their dog to assault these employees (this bill talks about fines and possible jail time for dog owners). So, let’s make it up to the cute utility guy, as he has a tough job. I suggest you call the utility company and ask when they should routinely enter your property, so you can keep Brutus in a safe place. Utilities welcome these calls and will work with you to set up a safe time for your employees to visit.
This is not a battle you will win, so let’s be ALL friends … Good luck, DogMan.
