Talk of Waco

By Dale

July 17, 2008 4:44 AM | Link to this

I suggest that the Sheriff’s Department take this very seriously. This sounds like a case of a potential serial killer out there. Dogs first; people next.

My sympathy to everyone whose pet was murdered by this lunatic. I completely understand how you feel. My dogs are not only my best friends, but they are part of my family. They are not just “property” to me.

By Miranda

July 17, 2008 4:51 AM | Link to this

i just was reading this and couldnt believe how someone could do this to a innocent animal. i mean i was not a fan of dogs till i became a dog owner myself i have a 6 month old pit bull her name is emma and she is sweet as a button. i couldnt imagine life without her. if anyone would to start a campaign or something or maybe even a memorial fund for people who has lost dogs to atleast help them find another companion i would love to help and help those with their grief. have a great day to you all and to all those out there who lost a pet i am so so very sorry for you and your familys loss. have a great day

Miranda 3RD ACR WIFE

By Chef

July 17, 2008 6:06 AM | Link to this

My sympathies to all who have lost a fur-baby!

I agree with Dale, they need to be stopped before they graduate to “bigger and better” things!

By ginny

July 17, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this

this really makes me angry. is nothing sacred to these looney toons any more? i know my fur baby is the world to me. if anything happened to her it would be like losing a child. the sheriff really needs to get on top of this. if this phyco was killing humans cops would be all over this, well first pets then they get bored and move on to humans. get with the program sheriff and catch this nut case!!! GOD BLESS these`poor innocent fur babies

By Pat

July 17, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

My heart goes out to all of you have suffered this loss. I, too, was a victim to someone in my neighborhood killing my two dogs with stricnine (sorry for the spelling). We had about two dozen dogs killed in a one year period and I was the only one that did anything about it. We never caught who did it but when the Sheriff’s Dept went house to house asking about it they obviously hit the house of guilt because we have not had another episode since. So, go get them and don’t stop! It broke my heart when my dogs died in my arms for no reason at all!

By Vicki

July 17, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

Praying that this jerk will be caught before they can murder someone elses sweet fur baby. I dont have a dog anymore, I lost mine to cancer some time ago. He is still in my heart tho. I now have a cat (sweet fur baby) and she is part of my family, I know if someone did something like this to her,…

By Gary

July 17, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

Where does anyone come up with some INSANE idea that everyone else HAS to PUT UP with their animals? We’re animal-lovers too, but we keep our animals AT HOME, out of harm’s way, and if you love your animal you’ll do the same! YOUR ANIMAL IS ‘YOUR’ RESPONSIBILITY! When you let it run free to bother someone else and someone else kills it, don’t blame the killer, BLAME YOURSELF!

By mad

July 17, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

I own dogs and they stay on my property. If my dog get on to someone else land he is free game. If you damn PETA nuts would understand that you can’t just let your dogs go where ever they want. My dog is satfe and sound at home because he knows to stay on my property. Grow up! I’m sure if your dog got into soemthing that kill them it was on your property right? Keep them on your property and you won’t have any problems. Here is an idea BUILD A FENCE.

By null

July 17, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

My sympathy goes out to the people whose pet was murdered. I am a big animal lover, I have 3 small dogs at home. I have never had children of my own, so they are my children. I think that who ever is doing this is sick in the head and needs some serious help. I feel like the other citizens, what’s next???? I also feel that the cruelty to animals should have a larger fine and some prison time. These people who have this deranged mind to kill, humans and/or animals deserve time behind the bars, they kill once they will kill again, what will it take next. I could go on, but I will stop here.

By KDF

July 17, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

Dale (first blog) is right. Many people who show such cruelty to animals later become vicious to people. It is a psycotic(?) trend. I feel sorry for the pets and their owners, but whoever is doing this needs to be found. They are terribly sick people. <><

By Gary

July 17, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

KDF, you’re so FULL OF CRAP! I was born and raised on a farm (of which you obviously know nothing about) where killing was a way of life. We killed to EAT, we killed to PROTECT, and never once in my life have I even thought about, not even in my most angered moments, killing another human. By your great logic each hunter should be a serial killer! The reality of what you’re saying is WE HAVE NO PERSONAL RIGHTS AND THERE IS NO PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY TOWARD OUR ANIMALS! Go buy a can of INTELLIGENCE! You desperately need it!

By null

July 17, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

When this idiot gets bored of using dogs for target practise, who is next? Cows? Chicken? Cats? Children? If a person like this will kill an animal needlessly, then they could, or will, harm humans. Think about it, the dogs are friendly and trusting. So are children. And it may be about power, the authority a person can have, or take, over an animal, or child, and abusing it. I hate to compare children to animals, but after all, we all consider our pets our children. For one who is childless, my cats are my children. If someone started using them for target practice I would be as hurt and enraged as if it were a two legged child. I pray the neighbors are safe in their patrolling and don’t take unnecessary risks. God appointed Adam (man) to be over the animals and entrusted their care to Adam. This person is disregarding God’s appointment of man caring for the animals on this earth. I pray that person, or persons, are caught and soon.

By Greg

July 17, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Did anyone else see the irony in this story? I think the photographer, Jerry Larson did a magnificent job of showing it. Look on the wall behind the Dicortes. I’m not in favor of shooting people’s pets (heck, I even know of 3 dogs I care about), but there are people who don’t think deer should be hunted and killed. Mr. Dicorte is obviously NOT one of those. I’m not advocating that all hunting should be stopped either—-I guess what I’m trying to say is—-they’re just animals. Go get another dog and train it to stay at home.

By DONNA

July 17, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

HOW SAD TO LOSE A BELOVED PET,I HAVE SEVERAL MYSELF,BUT I FIND IT VERY IRONIC THAT THE DICORTES ARE STANDING IN FRONT OF A WALL FULL OF MOUNTED ANIMALS !!! WHAT YOU SOW, YOU WILL REAP.

By Elizabeth Smith

July 17, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

Hmmmmmm. Sounds like “Gary” has a little problem. Seem like someone who wouldn’t care if his own dog was killed, wouldn’t hesitate to shoot anyone else’s animal, vicious or not.

By null

July 17, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Whoever is killing these dogs are probably fed up. What this whole matter is about is if you don’t want your car stolen don’t leave the keys in the ignition. If you don’t want somebody to drive by and steal your lawn mower from your open garage close it when you leave. If you don’t want your dogs shot chain or fence them. This is a free country but don’t go over your limit!!! How much clearer can a person be?????????? Plus I’m sure the whole story isn’t being told here. Trash getting torn up, Shoes getting takin from peoples porches by dogs, cats and small dogs getting torn up by these larger dogs, and much more that we will never hear about. I’m sure that somebody is tired of the BS. Stray dogs weither violent or not can do damage to property and smaller animals in an instant without notice. Children get killed everyday from lose dogs that that the owners swears are “not violent” so grow up dogs can go crazy at any time when suddenly spooked. Would you let your neighbors freely run through your yard without permission. So why let the dogs? Not everybody wants their property torn up by dogs. Would you like your neighbors to let goats eat your trees? NO. NO. No. NO you wouldn’t. So grow up and chain your dam dog up!!!

By sp

July 17, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

my sympathy goes out to all the families that have lost their pets. i am a huge animal lover and cant imagine the pain of losing a pet that way. this person needs to be found and punished. i would like to put a bullet in him or her.

By dave

July 17, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

As a responsible pet owner we had to give away our wondering large breed dog to a family in town, until we can afford to build a proper fence. I see both sides of this issue. I often have dogs just roaming through and do attempt to shew them off. Hoping for the same grace - which I may not get. I too have contacted the sherrif and will defend my home and livestock legally; Your dog may get the bullet, and you a sympathy card. I and my children have been chased on the public roads simply walking or riding as the forementioned patrolees are doing. I pick my child and myself and my livestock (while on my property) over your dog, on my property or the public right of way. Signed, Your neighbor P.S. Sleep well. Your my neighbor, not the dog, and Daddy taught me differnce and to care.

By People Lover

July 17, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

I agree with “mad”. Keep your animal on your property.

By James

July 17, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

ANY dog bread at ANY time can harm children, lifestock, other small dogs, cats, your name it. Small children are killed every year by dogs that the owners swear are “harmless”. Dogs can snap at any moment without warning. This has been proven time and time again and there are hundreds of documented cases all over the world. And I’m sure the whole story isn’t being told here. It never is. The dogs are probably getting into trash, chewing up shoes on front porches, killing smaller dogs and cats, you name it. I’ve even had a dog steal my newspaper before I could get to it in the mornings. This went on for several weeks before I figured out what was going on. A simple call to the neighbors and they chained their dogs up. What I am saying is stop complaining and fench or chain your dogs. Would you let your neighbors freely walk through your yard without permission. NO you would call the police. So stop the BS.

By concerned

July 17, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

I think some of you are missing the point here. I agree that dogs should be kept on their owner’s property. However in a rural area such as Bend of the Bosque in China Spring, TX that is not always going to happen. The fact is the LAW states the dog does not have to be chained (which is cruel, by the way) or fenced or on a lease. As long as they are not vicious they can run freely. Although my dog is very smart, I seriously doubt he can see the invisible property line dividing my land from someone elses. If one of these dogs was destroying property or hurting smaller animals I can see the need to shoot him, however I don’t think they were ALL doing this and it seems to me someone is up to no good.

By adh

July 17, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Gary, I don’t think anyone is saying that the killing of animals in the course of owning or operating a farm leads to psychopathic tendencies. This type of killing is vastly different as it didn’t involve killing to eat or protect. This is killing an innocent animal for no apparent reason other than wanting to do it. Hurting animals for no reason is, in fact, a trait common to psychopaths. It is a condition in which one has little to no empathy for the suffering of others.

Greg, I have to agree with you with one exception. They are not JUST animals. These were pets. They were part of someone’s family.

James, while I do think that it is a dog owner’s responsibility to confine their pets to their property, things happen and dogs tend to jump over and dig under fences. Even if your neighbor’s dog is being a nuisance there are far better ways to deal with it. As you said, telling the neighbor that their dog is bothering you may solve the problem. These people were obviously not told anything.

By Dog owner

July 17, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

How can you compare dogs and people? Do people eat your chickens and livestock? Do people growl and snarl at your young children? Do people get chained in a backyard, locked in a house all day, and many other things that would make a (human) go insane?

Dogs ARE innocent…but their owners make them guilty against their will. Keep your dogs on your property and train them right and they will be innocent. However if you let your dog tramp on someone elses property, kill someone elses livestock or attack children, YOU are guilty for making your innocent dog get into a dangerous situation.

If a dog is really part of your family, why would you let it run off like that? Would you let your child/children run off?

By Gary

July 17, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

Elizabeth Smith: You’re right! “Gary” does have a problem with people who accept no RESPONSIBILITY at the same time they try to take away the rights of others! You’re also right in that if my dog bothers you AT YOUR HOME, it’s your right to kill it. MY RIGHTS STOP WHERE YOUR RIGHTS BEGIN; YOUR RIGHTS STOP WHERE MY RIGHTS BEGIN! That is the base line to freedom! The problem is, too many people can only see THEIR side of it, which isn’t freedom at all! It’s COMMUNISM!

By Rhonda Smith-Owens

July 17, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

There are high crime by punishment laws for people that shoot “domesticated” animals. You know who you are out there that shot this family member….What ever this dog was doing to YOU (unless he had you by the THROAT!)does NOT justify ANY person shooting domesticated animals………….

By null

July 17, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

Some of you folks are missing the point (MAD & GARY). It is ILLEGAL to shoot the dogs. We are responsible pet owners and do keep our dogs in our fenced backyard. There have been a few times where our dogs beyond our control have escaped. I am worried that the crazy shooter will be aiming at my dog the one time she gets out. Would you shoot a horse if he got out? THIS MUST BE STOPPED!!!

By adh

July 17, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

Concerned, Excellent point!

By Joe

July 17, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

I agree with James. ANY dog can snap and kill a small child or injure them without warning. Keep your pets fenced. If you are going to let them out an hour or so each day watch them and then fench them back up. It’s amazing how some people are this stupid that they would think that it is ok for their dog to roam around in the area and not expect somebody to get upset. Live in town for about a week and let your dog roam around and see what happens. The dog catcher will be happy to pick him up. I’m not saying shoot a dog for no reason but now all that this newspaper thing did is make the person that is shooting the dogs even more determined to prove that lose animals are not going to roam on his property if He is this determined. Grow up and get something better to do than patrol on foot and bikes! Dam this aint a serial killer of humans. You don’t ever give your secerets or tatics of catching a criminal away like this news artical did. All you probably did now is stir the person up worse!!!!

By LARRY SASSE

July 17, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

IF YOU PEOPLE NEED ANY HELP . CALL ME. I WORK NITES SO STAYING UP WILL NOT BE A PROBLEM FOR ME. MY DAYS OFF IS MON. TUES. WED. CALL ME ON ONE OF THOSE DAYS. 867 6249

By marge

July 17, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

My parents live in China Spring and there are dogs that get out all of the time. I have seen the same loose dogs on their street time and time again. Nobody ever seems to look for them until after a couple of days. I think that it’s irresponsible for dog owners to just let their dogs run anywhere they want. Regardless of where you live, the country, the city, wherever, it’s your responsibility as a pet owner to have control of your animal. That’s for other people’s safety and your animals. I agree that chaining a dog up when you have a yard is unfair to them, but at the same time, it’s your responsibility as a dog owner to teach and train them when their young, and not wait until their full grown. So many people have dogs that “don’t listen”, or dogs that “act up,” but really it’s because of the lack of people training them… you are THEIR master, not the other way around. I have a 6 month old male pitbull, who doesn’t run off when you take his leash off, and who stays by my side. He’s only 6 months and he already knows what he’ll get in trouble for. The point is that yes it is sad that these dogs are being shot, and it’s not right, but I do think that people need to have more control over there animals….. not the other way around. I feel sorry for the families that lost their pets, because that’s one of the worse things in the world, but if your so scared, keep them in the yard for a while, don’t just let them continue to roam, and then want to make a big deal about it when they don’t come home.

By Joe

July 17, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

I agree with James. ANY dog can snap and kill a small child or injure them without warning. Keep your pets fenced. If you are going to let them out an hour or so each day watch them and then fench them back up. It’s amazing how some people are this stupid that they would think that it is ok for their dog to roam around in the area and not expect somebody to get upset. Live in town for about a week and let your dog roam around and see what happens. The dog catcher will be happy to pick him up. I’m not saying shoot a dog for no reason but now all that this newspaper thing did is make the person that is shooting the dogs even more determined to prove that lose animals are not going to roam on his property if He is this determined. Grow up and get something better to do than patrol on foot and bikes! Dam this aint a serial killer of humans. You don’t ever give your secerets or tatics of catching a criminal away like this news artical did. All you probably did now is stir the person up worse!!!!

By null

July 17, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

The picture is real funny. They have a screen shot of there dog that got shot crying and suffering from cruelty to animals but have 3 dear heads in the background.

By Gary

July 17, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

null: I have NOT missed the point; YOU have missed the point! It’s our right to protect our property from intruders, both animal and human. You and others are comparing pets to humans, so OK, let’s apply the law against TRESPASSING to BOTH, which make it ILLEGAL for YOU and/or your ‘pet’ to be on my property without my permission!

By null

July 17, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Since he like shoot animals himself (dear heads in the backgroun) he might of shot his dog thinking it was a dear lol!!!! With the taught of mounting his head on the wall.

By David J.

July 17, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

WE KNOW IT IS “ILLGAL TO KILL ANIMALS”. But your not getting the point. Would you like somebody to drive their car through your yards and leave tracks. Would you like somebody to let their horse out to eat your flowers and go #2 in your yard everyday. YOUR NOT GETTING THE POINT HERE. If your animals get out then you need to work on your fence or put an electric wire around the bottom or top. They sell these at Walamart or lowes for about $25.00 plus cost of the wire. Plus this doesn’t sound like somebody is just waiting around to shoot animals that accidently get out. This sounds like there are too many dogs running lose in the area and something needs to be done.There is no excuse for dogs running around lose I don’t care if you live in Mexico. Grow up or go back to middle school people!!!

By Jesse Martinez

July 17, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Somebody mentioned Mexico. In Mexcio this kind of stuff wouldn’t even go this far. The dog would be disposed of by any means and the person that owns the dog is out of luck. So stop crying and buy you a new dog. If this many dogs have been killed in the area then there are way to many dogs running around so stop crying!!!

By Tammy

July 17, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

I am very sorry for the loss that these people have experienced. It is never easy to lose a loved one. HOWEVER—would you let your child run free and play in busy streets or on other people’s property without permission? ABSOLUTELY NOT!! I also live in the China Spring area on acreage, and I am sorry BUT IT IS NOT IMPOSSIBLE TO CONTAIN YOUR ANIMALS!!! I have several types of animals (horses, dogs, chickens, ducks, goats) and all of my animals are contained on my property. If your property is not all fenced, make an area for your animals. IT IS CALLED RESPONSIBILITY. My children are deathly afraid of dogs, even our own dogs, and we keep them in a fence. Do they find a way to get occasionally? Of course, but we fix the problem so that it does not happen again. I become furious when others on our road are not as responsible and we wake up to find that our trash has been gotten into, things in our yard has been destroyed, among other destructive, although not dangerous, things have been done by other people’s “children” (i.e. uncontained pets). Also, I cannot count the number of times that we have gone out to our driveway to get into the car and my children have been terrified by neighborhood dogs that will not go away. My entire property except the front of the house and the driveway is fenced, but there have even been instances where other people’s dogs have dug under our fences or even jumped over the 4 foot cyclone fence and have terrified my little girls. I have talked to the owners, and their excuse is the same…it is impossible to contain the animals. I am sorry, but that is just that…an excuse for your irresponsibility.

By null

July 17, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

deer hunting is a sport in which we put food on the table..last time i checked we were not eating dog..so you grow up you liberal fools!!!!!!

By null

July 17, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Gary, The point was it is ILLEGAL. Please check the county laws for a better understanding. You are not suppose to shoot dogs even if they are trespassing, unless they are endangering you or your livestock.

By concerned

July 17, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

I understand the frustration of other people’s animals coming onto your property. I’m sure at this very moment my neighbor’s dog is doing his “business” on my front lawn. However, I don’t think that gives me the right to blow his head off. Seriously people.

I grew up in that exact neighborhood. I used to roam the woods and ride my bike with my friends on a daily basis, expecially during the summer. Imagine if a child (HUMAN child) wanders onto this person’s land and he/she mistakes the child for another dog. Chew on that.

This person needs to be stopped and it is absolutely ridiculous to think he is within his/her rights in this situation.

By Christy

July 17, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

I don’t think it’s funny, I don’t think these people or their dog has done anything wrong. How sad that life is so disposable. How sad that so many can be so cold to the loss these people have suffered.

By Nichole

July 17, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

This is horrible!!! I am so glad they have taken it this far. I’m actually friends of the owners and the breeder of the dog that was shot. The poor puppy has struggled from the beginning… he was the runt of the litter and over coming the odds survived. We still have the mother, father, and one of the puppies… there is not a mean bone in ANY of these dogs… especially that one. Those people loved that dog more than anything. I hope they find who did this and they get what they deserve.

By nunya

July 17, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Maybe it was SANTA, he’s tired of you shooting & eating his REINDEER!! :)

By Gary

July 17, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

What I’m reading is: “People who live under county laws have the right to let their animals (dogs in this case) do whatever they want, disregarding the property-rights of others, for as long as those animals are determined to not be vicious by their owner!”

“People who own property under county laws are required, by law, to to PUT UP WITH any and all pets belonging to the above!”

WELCOME TO AMERIKA!

By Mr. Country

July 17, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

You people sound like you have it so bad. You should move to Leroy or Malone areas were people loose thousands of dollars a year on teenagers road hunting and shooting there cattle and horses. And your worried about a $100.00 dog. It is a known fact in Malone, West, Leroy, Axtell, Lincoln City, and other areas that wondering dogs,cats,Racoons,Skunks,and other property damaging animals are a moving target if they keep causing trouble and property damage. And people that don’t want to loose a pet keep them fenced up. I’ve lost three myself over the years and I’m not crying to the newspaper about it. Let’s find better things to help out society. Please!!!!!

By Nichole

July 17, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

Mr. Country and all you other people who insist on writting rude and hurtful things. These people just lost their dog… who they obviously cared about. $100.00 (ya right) or free… it doesn’t matter. Did she say he roamed the neighborhood… NO (he stays inside most of the time) …. does he tear up people’s property…. NO (i know them, I know their neighbors) He was a very sweet dog who just got out. They are not irresponsible pet owners b/c their dog got out once. My dogs try new and inventive ways to get out everyday. Everyonce in awhile they’ll knock out a piece of wood fence and out they go. Does that make me a bad owner…. no. Makes them smart dogs. The fact of the matter is YOU DON’T SHOOT OTHER PEOPLES DOGS (cats, cows, horses… etc) There are other ways to go about it… call the sheriff’s dept. I know they’ll come out and get the dog back to the owner. There was a man in West who got “time” recently for shooting a cat. I’m in total shock to log on here and see what some people write. Have you never heard the saying “If you have anything nice to say, DON’T SAY ANYTHING AT ALL”… it’s just beyond me that people would go out of their way to write “Maybe it was SANTA, he’s tired of you shooting & eating his REINDEER!!” I mean COME ON.

By Someone who has an opinion

July 17, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Mr. Country if you don’t like the area you live in then move. Stop whining about it. It is terrible that someone is shooting all of these family pets. The law says that these dogs can roam free if they are not vicious or rapid. If someone has a problem with these dogs running free then maybe they should go complain to the city or to the owners. It is animal cruelty for someone to shot a dog. I can understand using a bb gun to scare a dog of if it is damaging property, cause from far off they will not cause harm. I have two dogs that run loose on our land, and they go visit the neighbors and play with their kids. If people have a problem with them they tell us. So stop being cold hearted towards these people who have lost something that was like a child to them or something that could have been part of their work.

By Ruth

July 17, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

I lived in China Spring many years ago, and two of our dogs were shot by a neighbor - on our property. Our house sat back from the road a little. One of our sweet dogs was left near the road, but the other was laid out on our front steps. Unfortunately there are a lot of people who think they can do whatever they want when they move to unincorporated areas of the county, and sadly they get away with it most of the time. They’ll answer to a higher authority one day.

By Misty

July 17, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

I tell you what you STUPID, Heartless Jack*es. These pets are a part of peoples family. Not a freakin cow that you have in a field. Luke was LOVED by all the neighbors and neighbors dogs. Most of all though, he was truly loved by the Dicortes. He was their pride and joy. He brought them joy every single day. You jacks especially you MR COUNTRY must not know love and I’m guesssing do NOT have too many that LOVE you. Why did you even comment you JERK. I hope one day you hurt bad and lose something really close to you just like whats gonna happen to the COLDHEARTED punk that is killing all these people’s beautiful pets. Yea, if you are scared of a dog, which definitely was not the case with LUKE but if you are, there’s rat shot and all kinds of things that will keep the animal away. WHY SHOOT TO KILL. OH and MR COUNTRY maybe you should read the TEN Commandments and GOD help you. NOW, I am going to ask EVERYONE

By MISTY

July 17, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

NOW EVERYONE WHO DOESN’T HAVE ANYTHING NICE TO SAY DON’T SAY ANYTING. THESE PEOPLE ARE CRUSHED..LOOK IN THEIR EYES. SO STOP WITH YOUR STUPID , HEARTLESS COMMENTS. NOW!!! AND GOD BLESS ALL YOU WHO HAVE BEEN SO SUPPORTIVE AND NICE. GOD HELP YOU WHO HAVEN’T AND I HOPE YOU FEEL SOME REAL PAIN ONE DAY JUST LIKE THE PUNK WHO IS KILLING THESE DOGS WILL , ONE DAY!

By GREG

July 17, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Look people!! Enough with this topic! There is something a lot more serious going on. There are drunken kids in WEST who drive all over town (drunk) running over poor innocent dogs! We must address this issue! Stay classy WEST

By Dirk

July 17, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, well I was sideswiped in Bosqueville yesterday by a dog driving drunk.

By Lisa

July 17, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

My heart goes out to the families that have lost their beloved pets. It amazes me how people can be so heartless and make such nasty comments when they do not know the entire story about how the dog(s)got loose or whatever the situation may be. Labs are not normally vicious dogs and most of them would lick you to death, but they can be protective of their human family. I just wonder when/if the person involved will graduate from shooting dogs to shooting humans instead. May whoever did this get their just desserts and then some!

By GLC

July 17, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Well, reading all of this is very interesting. First, people (ALL PEOPLE) need to remember dogs are pets, pets belong in a fenced yard - if you don’t want anything to happen to them and remember they are NOT part of the family, THEY ARE ANIMALS. This is a sick world when people start putting dogs above people. I have had a neighbors dog come to my house (growling to the point I was afraid to walk out side, and was forced by SOMEONES PET to stay in my house), Sometimes the dogs are not being the nice pet the owner wants everyone to believe it is and I can tell you, if I could have gotten my hands on a gun that would be one dead dog. Just because the animal is nice and sweet most of the time - unless you were there when this dog was shot you don’t know how the animal was acting.

By Seriously?

July 17, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

FYI, I happen to live there…I have lived there since I was 5. For the most part everyone knows everyone and usually it isn’t a big deal for dogs to be out…its in the COUNTRY as in there are wooded areas and land and neighbors who wave when we drive by. We have walked up and down that street and there really isn’t any dogs that are vicious. But the fact is…it wasn’t just ONE dog that was killed and it and this isn’t normal here. If someone is doing it for fun…that is sick…Profiles of serial killers say they hurt animals…so even if you are not attached to your pets (which I love my puppy but thats just me), maybe you should think that there might be a bigger problem here. And about the “kids in West drinking” its awful and is a BIG problem that has been going on forever and HELLO, the West fest and the parents who allow it and whatever other reasons there are, it isn’t a new thing…but this dog killing “spree” or whatever it is hasn’t ever happened before. We have had a dog shot and it was tragic(and I guess some people haven’t seen your kids cry over losing their best friend)…but this is a situation where SEVERAL dogs have been killed in a short period of time. I think that the people who are so ugly about it and think that it isn’t a big deal should wonder if the next step is this “person” or kids or whatever start doing other things for fun…it isn’t fun to have your car broken into, or your mailbox bashed (as happens occasionally here)…and obviously something needs to be done.

By me

July 17, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

yall are so funny.. when a 12 yr old kills someone or any other type of bad thing yall are quick to make little comments and blame parents and so forth. but god help if someone makes a comment about dogs being shot and you guys loose your minds.

By mimi

July 17, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this

When I read this article my heart dropped and the tears came. I am so sorry for the Dicortes’ loss. I have never had children and my two fur babies are my children and I know how I hurt when one of them is sick. My heart breaks for these people. I pray they catch whoever is doing this terrible act. People who do not have a heart for animals just can’t seem to understand how others can become so totally attached to their animals.

By CARMA-2-KILLER

July 17, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Luke had chickens at home, yes he would viciously lick you to death and if your children are out playing at 12:30 am on a week night than maybe you need to be the one in question as a human parent than the pet parents. As far as the livestock goes were in a neighborhood not in Mexico,on a sheepfarm,or in a chicken ranch and if you must go there then try a zoo. They broke the law and i hope they have to cross rainbow bridge to get to the gates of hell because luke will be waiting alone with the other dogs MURDERD. SIGN: MARK DICORTE

By Jean

July 17, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

We live in the country and have 3 dogs. I understand how sad the owners of the dogs are but people should keep their dogs fenced for their own protection. It doesn’t matter how many acres a person has, a fence can be put in the back yard or fence in the house. There are so many things out there that can hurt or kill a pet. We have seem so many dogs ran over because the owner was irresponsible. We fenced an acre for our dogs to run in because we don’t want them hurt.

By KELLEY P

July 17, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

This is the most sickest f###ed up sh#t I’ve ever heard…someone in China Spring is sick as hell and they deserve to be shot.

By Foster

July 17, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

In reading the article, I gather that the shooter is shooting the dogs on the owner’s property. Maybe even trespassing to commit the crime. The property owner has legal right to defend his house and other property, including livestock and pets. On my property, any individual discharging a firearm at night towards my livestock or pets would need to be wearing Kevlar clothing. N/S. If it keeps up I wouldn’t mind helping by pulling a few shifts of guard duty. Read the history of most mass murders and serial killers and you’ll see a history of cruelty to animals in almost every one of them. You victimized pet owners hang in there. We’ll be praying for you and will help guard if needed.

By KP

July 17, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

This is the most sickest f*ed up sh*t I’ve ever heard…someone in China Spring is sick as hell and they deserve to be shot.

By Dustin

July 18, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

GLC,

Sometimes pets do deserve to be put above people…

By jennifer

July 18, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this

I to live in China Spring on E. Cougar Ln. I moved to the area back in March.Our family had a yellow lab for seven years. She was my daughter’s dog since she was four. On May 15th she wasn’t laying on the front porch as usual. Long story short our dog has been missing without a trace! Also, I want to note that I’m not sure if my lab maybe related to these horrific crimes. My lab was wearing a red collar with her name on it DAISY.

By mec

July 18, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this

“…guessing he had taken off after a squirrel or rabbit. “

Probaby a squirrel since just abut all of the rabbits have been killed off by free-roaming dogs and cats. It might be nice if suburbanites would fence their yards or a portion of their yards and maintain their animals at home

By Mr. Country

July 18, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

To the people that think that “Mr. Country” is a bad person I’m just telling the truth. I’m not saying it’s good to shoot people’s animals at all or livestock. It’s wrong. I’m saying keep them fenced. Do you leave your keys in your car by the road or at Walmart when you go shopping. No you don’t because somebody may take it. Wake up, this isn’t the 1800’s anymore. Like I said I’ve had three dogs killed over the years. Two of the three came home with bullets and eventually died. One never came home at all and was a $350.00 yellow lab that I had for three years and cared about very much. It’s not the money people should worry about it’s the fact that you can’t let you dogs just roam every neighborhood anymore. I let my dogs roam free and learned that you can’t do this anymore. They will get into peoples trash, chew up garden hoses, chew up shoes, kill smaller dogs and cats, etc. And “NO” you will not know about it because they are 1/2 mile from your house when they do it. But you can bet the people that are getting their property tore up know exactly what dog or dogs are doing it. It don’t matter if the dog is nice “old yeller” keep them fenced because some people will get upset. As for the shootings it sounds to me like a teenager is having crazed fun killing animals in the neighborhood. Dogs tend to hang around in packs. This leaves a crazy teenager the ability to kill or injure more than one dog at a time. Trust me, keep them fenced or you’ll end up like me, “dogless”. Goodbye.

By Dianne

July 18, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

For the last 12 years it has been my divine pleasure and priviledge to own the sweetest, most lovable dog ever. About 9 years ago I had a next door neighbor that shot her 5 times with a pellet gun. My vet said that 3 of the shots could very easily have killed her. I promptly promised my neighbor that if my dog was harmed again in ANY way, I would have no hesitation in sticking my .38 caliber revolver up his nose & pulling the trigger. I meant that. Six months later this sub-human pond scum was arrested and sent to prison on charges of sexually molesting his step daughters. Nuff said. I would have pressed charges, but at the time I was not aware of that option. This is a dangerous person you have on your hands. Put this P.O.S. in prison for as long as possible. People like this do not have the right to live in a civilized world.

By DJD

July 18, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Apparently many of you sick individuals didnt get the point of the story. This person is a serial killer who has alot bigger ghost in his closet than the 10 dogs he has murdered. All dogs shot were kill shots - ie: behind the shoulder, behind the ear, in the head - This is not just a mad person or scared person that the dogs got in his yard. This guy gets his thrills by killing harmless pets and he is now a suspect in the recent murder of a human in our area. So I would be very careful who I run with and bare false witness for as this is considered as big of a crime as the crime itself . Lets all pray the Law or GOD gets to him soon.

By Darla DiCorte

July 18, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

We would like to Thank all of the wonderful people that understand our Love for our dogs and sent such nice messages and phone calls, etc. May GOD Bless You !

Sincerely, Mark & Darla DiCorte

By Johnny Fan

July 18, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Does anybody know if that FBI agent might have moved out to the China Spring area? He likes to shoot dogs. Just a thought.

By Another Lake Drive Resident

July 18, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

My parents have lost two dogs while living on Lake Drive….2 labs. It has always been a sneaking suspicion that a man in that neighborhood had shot them both. This man needs to realize that these pets areloved by someone and somehow got out of the owner’s property. These two labs were not roamers and rarely got out in the 5 years that they lived there. I hope the person doing this develops a conscience and quits harming the harmless.

By KCC

July 18, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

I live up the road and have inherited many dogs (strays) due to people leaving them in my front yard. I love animals and have had 3 shot (nursed them back to health), 1 mauled by a wild cat, yes the husky went after chickens, we finally fenced them in after 5 years letting them all (8) run loose. This was the best thing we have done since living in China Spring. 25 years. I believe the same way “WE LIVE IN THE FRIGGIN COUNTRY” but since so many from the “CITY” or “UP NORTH” are moving out here we need to protect our furry children. Now all my furry babies live in the back yard and love it and I love it because all I have to do is walk out on the back porch and love on them. They all get fed at same time, do not have to worry about all these speed demons on the road or worry if they are coming back home.

I hope you get that SOB and keep your dogs and cats safe

kcc

By howard smith

July 18, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

DOG’S ARE ANIMALS SAME AS DEER. HOW MANY STUFFED DEER HEADS WERE HANGING ON DICORTES WALL IN THE PAPER? MAYBE THERE’S ROOM ON THE WALL FOR A STUFFED DOG’S HEAD. KILLING A DEER MUST GIVE A HUNTER SUCH A RUSH. HOW MANY TIMES DID THE DEER GROWEL OR EVEN KEEP DICORTE FROM LEAVING HIS HOUSE. POOR LITTLE DEER LOOKING DOWN FROM THE WALL AS THE HUNTER LOOKS UP AND SMILES. GET A REAL LIFE AND STOP KILLING.

By null

July 18, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

Anyone that can sit there and shoot a dog in cold blood is inhumane and has no soul. All dogs and cats are as one of the family. I personally raise boxers and i couldnt see anything happen to them they are part of my family. I am so sorry for all of you that have lost your pets to this sick individual or individuals in that area. I hope that the killing will stop and the person or persons will be caught and punished to the full extent of the law for animal cruelty. My heart goes out to all of you.

By HBK

July 19, 2008 5:42 AM | Link to this

THE PHOTOGRAPHER THAT TOOK THE PICTURE FOR THE NEWSPAPER MADE A JOKE OUT OF THE DICORTE’S THAT WENT RIGHT OVER THEIR HEADS, OR WAS IT THE DEER HEADS THAT WERE OVER THEIR HEADS? WAKE-UP AND REALIZE THAT YOUR THE BUTT-END OF CHINA SPRING’S LATEST JOKE. GET A FENCE AND GET ON DOWN THE ROAD.

By LJ

July 19, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

When the person who killed the dogs gets caught all he or she has to do is say it was an accident because he or she was drunk. Hey, it worked for the girl from West. People feel sorry for drunks and let them off easy.

By marge

July 19, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

Nichole- let me see if i get this correctly…. their dog “stays inside most of the time?” so, what your saying is that one of the few times he got out he got shot? that just doesn’t sound that realistic to me.

By null

July 21, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Fence in your dogs and then you don’t have to worry about them getting hurt or shot.. My neighbor’s dogs spend most of their time at our fence harassing our dogs. I don’t intend on shooting them but it is frustrating having uncontrolled dogs in the neighborhood.

I am not condoning the shooting but it is also the dog owner’s responsibility to insure the safety of their dogs by fencing them in.

By Aly

July 21, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

In 2006 my doctor ordered me to get a dog for emotional health reasons. I found a rescued dog and he has become my constant companion. He of course, lives in the house and his large backyard, but occasionally he escapes. Thank goodness we don’t live in China Springs! It’s bad enough to image him being run over when he is out on his own; I am not sure how I would react if someone shot him. Well, he wouldn’t be much of a threat, or even a good practice target….he only weighs 12 pounds. But my blood runs cold at the thought of these people losing their companion pets. May you find peace in your loss.

By Mary

July 21, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Mark & Darla, I’m so sorry to hear about Luke. Keep an eye open, it’s someone in the area, maybe only visiting for the summer or something. I would suggest focusing on the “new arrivals”. As you know my dad moved because the area was growing by leaps and bounds and trying to “suburbanize” so, he moved further out! I see people who don’t know you are posting regarding your room decor, don’t let them idiots annoy you! I know you loved your dog, and once again, my heart goes out to you. May the POS that’s doing this be caught soon!!

By Crystal

July 21, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

To HBK. You’re a moron. You seem the most suspicious to me. You’re against hunting, and hunting is a big love of many Texans. Maybe you shoot their dogs to make a statement against hunting? I too am against hunting for sport, but the only people that kill dogs are serial killers or those in the making. As for the person responsible (if it isn’t you), maybe one day we’ll all get lucky and someone will shoot you in the knee and the dogs can come finish you off to give justice for the dogs you’ve killed. Any animal killer who isn’t killing (in a humane way) for food, deserves the worst possible death. And an extra fiery place in hell. I’m sure Satan has your spot picked out right now. Enjoy it.

By AMH

July 22, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this

There are 2 dogs in out neighborhood that are allowed to roam free. They have managed to get into our yard, broken our fence, dug through and scattered our trash, harassed the neighbors cattle and even killed a calf. When discussing the options available to us shooting them has been discussed. I, for one, am sick and tired of people who profess to love their pets but refuse to keep them safe. Do you also let your children run free? I imagine the only statement this person is trying to make is to keep your dogs under control.

By miranda

July 22, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

People are stupid for shooting dogs cant you get a life? I wonder what kind of childhood they had. But they do have a spot in hell for them. And it doesn’t matter if the dog was outside or inside or wherever they were, no animal should get killed because someone feels they should die. People need to get a life and go to school and do something productive with their lives.

By Sharon

July 23, 2008 2:34 AM | Link to this

Some of these people really need to get a life and while they are at it, get some common courtesy as well. Yes, an animal is just like a family member, therefore, if you let your animals roam, the quilt is on you for doing it, there are too many ways to keep an animal contained for it to be at large. You would make all efforts if it were your 2 year toddler wouldn’t you? I get past sick and tired of these people who claim the loss of the loyal pet when they shouldn’t have been out, maybe getting into the neighbors trash, keeping them awake all hours of the night because your animal wants to come visit theirs (constant barking), the fear from coming home after working late to be confronted by your sweet innocent pooch who isn’t so sweet when startled, and the list goes on. Let’s stop being narrow minded here and more responsible, treat your dog like a 2 year toddler and it won’t get shot.

By Sharon

July 23, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this

Some of these people really need to get a life and while they are at it, get some common courtesy as well. Yes, an animal is just like a family member, therefore, if you let your animals roam, the quilt is on you for doing it, there are too many ways to keep an animal contained for it to be at large. You would make all efforts if it were your 2 year toddler wouldn’t you? I get past sick and tired of these people who claim the loss of the loyal pet when they shouldn’t have been out, maybe getting into the neighbors trash, keeping them awake all hours of the night because your animal wants to come visit theirs (constant barking), the fear from coming home after working late to be confronted by your sweet innocent pooch who isn’t so sweet when startled, and the list goes on. Let’s stop being narrow minded here and more responsible, treat your dog like a 2 year toddler and it won’t get shot.

By Sharon

July 23, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this

Some of these people really need to get a life and while they are at it, get some common courtesy as well. Yes, an animal is just like a family member, therefore, if you let your animals roam, the quilt is on you for doing it, there are too many ways to keep an animal contained for it to be at large. You would make all efforts if it were your 2 year toddler wouldn’t you? I get past sick and tired of these people who claim the loss of the loyal pet when they shouldn’t have been out, maybe getting into the neighbors trash, keeping them awake all hours of the night because your animal wants to come visit theirs (constant barking), the fear from coming home after working late to be confronted by your sweet innocent pooch who isn’t so sweet when startled, and the list goes on. Let’s stop being narrow minded here and more responsible, treat your dog like a 2 year toddler and it won’t get shot.

By Sharon

July 23, 2008 2:37 AM | Link to this

Some of these people really need to get a life and while they are at it, get some common courtesy as well. Yes, an animal is just like a family member, therefore, if you let your animals roam, the quilt is on you for doing it, there are too many ways to keep an animal contained for it to be at large. You would make all efforts if it were your 2 year toddler wouldn’t you? I get past sick and tired of these people who claim the loss of the loyal pet when they shouldn’t have been out, maybe getting into the neighbors trash, keeping them awake all hours of the night because your animal wants to come visit theirs (constant barking), the fear from coming home after working late to be confronted by your sweet innocent pooch who isn’t so sweet when startled, and the list goes on. Let’s stop being narrow minded here and more responsible, treat your dog like a 2 year toddler and then it shouldn’t get shot.

By to another lake drive resident

July 23, 2008 2:56 AM | Link to this

I love labadors, use to have one myself and I miss him dearly. For one, I would never allow my lab to roam for common courtesy reasons. What may seem nice and appropriate for some isn’t necessarily for others. And two, if your parents had these two labs in the area for 5 years and they rarely ever got out, this person much be one darn good aim at shooting, not to mention he must sit up on a nightly basis just in hopes to spot a dog. Finally, what is harmless to you, may not be harmless to the other involved. I know many of people who can’t stand acidentally walking into some neighbors dogs poop, would you? My parents neighbors use to have a dog they let roam all the time, that dog would do it business no wheres else but in their yard. Male dogs are extremely loyal to acting this way. Each to protect their own is the key statement here, wouldn’t you say?

By Angie

July 24, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Darla, my heart goes out to you and Mark for the devastating loss of Luke. My friend’s parents live on Bend of the Bosque and about 5 years ago their beautiful, sweet yellow Lab that had been raised with their children for YEARS, was shot by their neighbor. I guess he just got tired of him roaming onto their property. It is just ridiculous. I do agree that this serial dog killer WILL, if he/she has not already, turn into a serial HUMAN killer.

By TED

July 26, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

NULL: If you don’t like hunting then move to the city dumbass. The dicorte’s are the best people I have ever met and for you to make stupid comments about them is lame. Get a life you hippy. A real one please!

I hope my dog roams over to your house and takes a big steamy s** in front of your door.

By Thomas

July 28, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

Let me just say I do not blame the poor dogs that have been shot, I blame the owners for letting them get out and roam. The mind set of most “city folks” that move out to the country is, lets get a dog, or dogs and turn it loose. Many Country people still have livestock to have to worry with. A group of chickens is a great game to a lab and they wont stop until they have killed all of them. I live in the country and take great steps and have spent MANY dollars on fencing. Not to keep my pets in but to keep another neighbors animals out. He is a collector of animals and have MANY< MANY< MANY./ In the last 5 years I have had to put up with dogs, cats, goats, sheep, etc. Last count on Great Pyrenees was ten with more on the way. I have more than had it with them coming in my yard barking at my kids, using my yard as a bathroom, growling at me in my own garage, knocking over water fountians, peeing and killing flowers and shrubs, digging holes,getting into trash, goats on my truck/garage, sickly hungry cats killing chickens, crapping in my flower beds, etc. the list goes on and on! The list goes on and on. The sheirff dept had told me to shoot them, the neighbor has eyes and can see that every neighbor is fed up but still he does nothing. I guess what my point is that just because you love your “family member” doesnt mean everyone does and should. If you love it so much take whatever measures you have to , to ensure that it stays on your own place. Whether you have 1 - 100 acres!

By Wondering?

July 28, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

Is he already a serial killer? He travels all over the USA in his fancy 18 wheeler.

I really wish the McLennan County Sheriff Department would actively pursue this investigation. They have some of the finest and could definitely stop this senseless killing.

By please explain...

July 30, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this

Bold: In response to by TED comment, hunting? move back to the city dumbass? Did anyone besides me not get this? I don’t care how great a person is, they can still be d******* as you say and they are usually the same ones who lack common courtesy. As by Thomas and by Sharon has stated, if you can’t read between the lines dumbass, then just read the comments PERIOD, if you can.