Dear Laura Conover (
@PimaCountyAtty),
My name is Brendan Jones, and this is Lucy. Ten years ago, Lucy saved my life during the war against ISIS. In return, I brought her home with me. While you may not be familiar with her story, millions of people around the world are.
We are writing to you today out of deep concern for a case in Pima County involving a family dog named Snuggles. Snuggles, an Anatolian Shepherd, has been placed on a court-ordered euthanasia list following an incident in which he bit a family member. At the time, the dog was agitated and acting to defend his home and family during a coyote incursion on the property. The entire family, including the individual who was bitten, is devastated by the possibility of losing him.
Snuggles is a large working breed traditionally used as a livestock guardian. At the time of the incident, he was an intact male who had not yet reached the appropriate age for neutering. I have personal experience with this breed, having used Anatolian Shepherds to protect my own flocks of sheep. It is well established that neutering intact males of this breed often produces a noticeable and positive change in temperament, reducing reactivity and certain aggressive behaviors.
Snuggles has now reached an age where neutering is both appropriate and recommended. I am confident that, once neutered, any concerns about future aggression would be substantially alleviated.
Before we consider raising additional public awareness about this case, we wanted to bring it directly to your attention in the hope that a reasonable resolution can be reached quietly and without unnecessary scrutiny. We respectfully ask that you personally review the matter. We believe common sense and compassion can still prevail here.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Very respectfully,
Brendan Jones and Lucy, “America’s Dog”
#AmericasDog
#SaveSnuggles