Thank you letters ::

Read heartfelt letters from people about the powerful impact DogsBite.org and its founder Colleen Lynn have had upon their lives. Join this campaign! Send your letter to:

What people say:

Dear DogsBite.org,

Thank you for your website and for the work that you do. When I was in my twenties, I used to believe that people unfairly targeted pit bulls. But now I'm 35-years old, and I research things. I know the statistics on pit bull attacks and the numbers are frightening. Not long ago, I was nearly a victim of a pit bull attack too. Less than a year ago, a woman in a nearby town was horrifically mauled and she ended up losing her left arm. It was a friend's dog that did the mauling and it was, of course, a pit bull. It is extremely upsetting to me that these attacks (often fatal) are happening nearly everyday across the country. Yet, all I see are so many young people on social media defending pit bulls. These dogs are so strong; the injuries are so damaging. I wish these dogs were not allowed in our communities.   – Christa, Oregon

Dear Colleen Lynn,

The trauma from the pit bull attack on that young woman was very emotional, along with the comforting and expertise of the police officer. The police and emergency services are doing so much better. Your contributions are enormous Colleen, and while recalling your own experience, you know that most communities are taking better care of victims because of your educational web site.

I am very proud of your professionalism, and your continued persistence. You are a special person in this world, Colleen, who saw a problem and figured out how to make a difference, enhancing the health and safety of communities throughout this country and other nations as well.  – Susanne, Texas

Dearest Colleen and other Dog Bite Victims,

I want to tell you just how much your work, personal passion and unselfish assistance to our family is helping us recover and focus our energy to preventing other needless serious injury and death. We are Pam Rock’s family, her 13 brothers and sisters, who are are laser focused in work in the State of Florida to stop the dangerous dogs injuries and death. We meet on a regular basis to communicate progress and hope.

I shared your terrific website last night and we gained a lot of legal and emotional support with access to the stories and facts we can use to get some solutions in Florida and anywhere else we can. Pam’s life was one of continuous service to our community, from Peace Corps volunteer, work with US indigenous tribes in Montana, WIC medical team leader in FL and NC and finally at our USPS as a new letter carrier at age 60. As the youngest of 14 she learned early to speak up when she needed something. We can still hear her today...

I’m including a 10 year old photo of most all of us with Pam so you can visualize some of the people you are helping. Please know you have our complete support and will direct others to seek information and guidance from your inspired website. I’ll stay in touch and let me know how our journey may help others.   – Tom, Florida

Dear Colleen Lynn,

You are the answer to prayers. The truth has always been the truth. The scientific evidence and logic could win the battles in the courtroom, but the truthful messages outside of the courtroom could not carry the full weight and determination of the righteous, as there was no reliable channel to carry the truth in the consistent and reliable manner needed to counter the multiple sources of lies and mistruths that came from a clear coordinated effort of the underground organized criminal enterprise of dog fighters and their suppliers of fighters in pit bull breeders. Changing the conversation in the public arena only because possible because of you. Giving victims and their families the resources to become advocates for the truth only became possible because of you. You are the miracle that has saved an unknown number of limbs and lives. Thank you!  – Kory, Colorado

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I just wanted to commend you for your incredible courage and outstanding website. I have been saying to friends for so long that allowing ownership of these animals that maim, terrorize and kill countless of my fellow American citizens is an outrage. Your website and advocacy is outstanding and it's an honor to write to you to say so. You are a great and courageous citizen.  – Mark, Massachusetts

Dear DogsBite.org,

Although my son has recovered beautifully, and certainly more severe bites overwhelm this website, he is an absolute victim. He is a victim of a vicious animal, poor judgment and political correctness. As a parent of a dog bite victim, I am left feeling helpless. We as a family are in full support of your website and all of the positive it brings to the public at large. Keep up the good work...

I have chosen to share [my son's story] with Dogsbite.org because I feel even a story with a less than tragic ending is one that many can relate to, when the fatal mauling cases are sometimes too difficult to comprehend. Thank you for your continuing crusade to protect against the many senseless dog maulings, deaths and legal injustices designed to protect everyone but the victims. | Read full letter »  – Mother, Alabama

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for your moral courage in these tumultuous times. Thank you for all the work you have accomplished in the past 10 years, providing information and support to so many people, despite adversity and at great personal cost to yourself.   – Heather, Canada

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I'm not sure I can truly express my gratitude with words for what you have done for my family and many others. On July 7th, 2012 our lives changed following Kaylie's severe pit bull attack. We found ourselves in shock and not sure what was next. The attacks from pit bull advocates were beyond comprehension. Finding Colleen Lynn of DogsBite.org was like having an angel and a warrior all in one package sent to us. You gave us direction when we could see none, you gave us hope when we could see none, and you gave us tools to fight when we had none. The friendship and admiration has continued to grow over the last five years. When I think of the roads you have built over the last ten years that so many survivors and families of victims have to travel on following a severe or fatal attack, guiding them to the right places, I must tell you thank you from my family and all the many others who have been touched by your work. Happy ten year anniversary!  – Dennis, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

You have the Holy Spirit flowing through you to Dogsbite.org. In my prayers with thanksgiving.  – Pastor, Iowa

Dear DogsBite.org,

Thank you for your website, for the truth it bares, for the courage it took to put it there. Even as tough as I am, I can't stand up to the hurricane of insanity around these dogs. Thank you for your time, your research and candid honesty. You're an inspiration. Reading your site gave me the courage to write this all down, the first time I have ever done so. As a dog trainer I have to take tremendous criticism when I refuse to handle these dogs now. Their owners are the cruelest nastiest people I have ever encountered. Especially when someone tells them their dogs are not angels and they should expect nothing but what they are getting after they come begging a trainer for help so their dog can play at dog parks or stop trying to kill cats or children. I understand how irrationally hateful the lovers of these dogs can be, and how hard, as a victim of the breed, life is after you have been attacked by one. I raise my lighter to your story, to your website. | Read full letter »  – Retired Professional Dog Trainer of 25+ Years

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I am writing to you because I want you to know that you bring a great service to humanity. It is because of you and DogsBite.org that I was able to heal through a very traumatic event where my two dogs were attacked simultaneously by two pit bulls on a mountain trail. If it weren't for DogsBite.org, I would have had a much more difficult and alienated road since my attack. My mental health definitely suffered for a period of time after the attack. Over time, I was able to heal my heart and I attribute that healing in a large way to you.

I wanted to take the time and thank you deeply. You helped me in a way that many family or friends could not. You helped save me from many dark places by shining light into my circumstances. I had never witnessed such wanton mindless violence before in my life. It changes a person. Your website helped to keep me in the light. I want you to know that. From the bottom of my heart I'm grateful to you and the endeavor you have taken on. Please know that it is having a deeply positive effect in not only showing the truth, but in helping people like me to heal. Please stay strong and know that many people out there keep you in their prayers so that what you have created will continue to go forth and help people. Blessing to you. Thank you.  – Victor, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for providing this informative site. It's comforting to be able to visit with people who feel the same way I do. I am an Animal Control Officer and have been “in the trenches” for over 2 decades. Recently, I dared to express my unfavorable opinion about pit bulls on Facebook by sharing some of your stories. My goal was to encourage awareness and caution, nothing more. However, I immediately came under attack. I was called a hater, a hate-monger and a liar.

I have saved many, many pit bulls from life on the end of a tow chain where their only purpose was to be bred or fought, but they have always been a problem in our area, and lately, things seem to be escalating. We've had an increase in pet deaths, repeat offenders and human injuries. I have a very real fear of a fatality happening on my watch.   – AC officer, Southern State

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for your tireless efforts to make this world a better place. Thank you personally for taking time to be there for me when I was at my lowest point, unsure if I could go on fighting this fight. Because of you I won't stop. I won't look the other way. I may always be a pit bull attack victim, but I will not let it define me. I've learned this from DogsBite and our family of advocates who are some of the strongest people I know. I have so much more knowledge because of you and that alone makes me a better person.   – Lisa, Illinois

Dear DogsBite.org,

I just stumbled upon your site Dogsbite.org. I am so glad to see an organization like this! I had a situation where my little 3-year old daughter and I were leaving a city park where I had taken her to play on the jungle gym. We were over 100 yards from my truck, and about the same distance from the jungle gym, when I noticed a pit bull off his leash staring at us. It was about 20 yards away, and then suddenly charged. It was clear this animal was targeting my little girl. There was nowhere to run, even the trees were new and thin like broom sticks, no place for me to put my daughter to get her out of harm's way. It was like time slowed down, I can't describe the terror I felt, not for myself, but only for my child. I swept her behind me and told her that whatever happens, keep me between her and the dog ... I will support any legislation to ban or regulate dangerous dogs! Keep up the great work!  – Stephen, Texas

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Good luck and God bless you at the Lansing, Michigan State Capitol event tomorrow. You have surely led the charge in this battle against maulings by dangerous dogs and have achieved tremendous victories for victims of pit bull attacks by your relentless advocacy for them. I will be thinking of all of those who are participating in this historic event who have suffered so much and for those who advocate on their behalf so faithfully. It is a courageous event and is sure to focus attention on the critical issue of DBRF’s in the United States. You stand on the side of Truth and Justice, which is a solid foundation for reform in Animal Control and the regulation of dangerous dogs. I pray that God will help all of you there to express yourselves eloquently and fearlessly. This cause brings hope to the helpless victims of severe maulings by pit bulls and other dangerous dogs and to their grieving families. The steadfast dedication of this group of victims and advocates is a beacon of light revealing the crisis of DBRFs and severe maulings by dangerous dogs especially pit bull type dogs in the United States.

Thank you for your commitment to bring awareness of this crisis to the general public and to public officials who are tasked first and foremost to provide safety, law and order In our society. They need to hear what you have to say in order to affect the change so desperately hoped for by all those whose lives have been impacted by a mauling or those who live in fear of dangerous dogs in their communities and by those who support this cause. Your example of courage, unwavering commitment to victims, and excellence in reporting is inspirational to me and countless others across the country who desire to see this tsunami of DBRFs and severe maulings by dangerous dogs come to an end. Thank you so much for your leadership. I know this event will affect change in many hearts and minds and will lead to changes in the laws pertaining to dangerous dogs.   – Anita, Northeast

Dear DogsBite.org,

Thank you for all that you do. Even after being seriously attacked, I still thought I was an anomaly, just a case of bad luck of being between a pit bull and a dog it wanted to kill. I didn't realize the serious danger pit bulls posed to all humans, even though I realized they were dog aggressive. Your important work has put a human face on this deadly issue and has helped me keep my family safer. I have also educated others that had no idea, and they now know to keep their kids away from pit bulls, especially making sure they aren't going into homes with pit bulls. Thanks again.  – Stacey, Oregon

Dear Colleen Lynn,

10 years of steady momentum! You keep going forward, taking us on a powerful ride to save lives! Happy anniversary to DogsBite.org!

Six years ago when my neighbor's daughter was attacked, I was so shocked, I came home and typed the words Dog Bite and your necessary website came up and I learned everything I needed to know to keep safe and shared with everybody I could to do the same. Thank you Colleen, you make the world turn safer!  – Sandy, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for everything you! I can't imagine going through my daughter's attack without the resources that DogsBite.org and the victim's advocacy movement provided us. Keep doing what you do, and know that the message is slowly but surely getting out there. Your work is saving lives and heartache. We love you!   – Maria, Delaware

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the tremendously difficult work you do. The time and commitment you dedicate to this cause is unfathomable. Because of you, we are healing together with the knowledge that we're not alone.   – Jennifer, Tennessee

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Your wisdom and care for people in the midst of aggressive dog issues is so needed in our nation. Thank you for your voice and strong advocacy. Please don't give up. There are so many people that are quiet and read your blog to keep their heads up. Our family appreciates you and will never forget your help. You spent time to digest our story and give our fears a reality to stand upon. Thank you, thank you!  – Erin, Washington

Dear Colleen Lynn,

The impact and credibility of Dogsbite.org was brought home to me when researching material for a professional presentation on morbidity and mortality from dog attacks. I had set out to compare Virginia statistics to those nationwide. My queries to the Centers for Disease Control resulted in a reference to Dogsbite.org as THE source for reliable data. This particularly applies to breeds most likely to inflict fatal maulings. When doing research, I don't just look at the headlines; I look at everything. Your site is invaluable because it is sourced and annotated and verifiable with respect to its data. Human fatalities from dog attacks have risen dramatically, and that is not just media hype. As a dog lover myself, relentless “pit bull advocacy” has convinced me that some of us have entered into a disordered relationship with the gift we have been given in domestic dogs.

Thank you for what you do and for your huge contribution to a public health issue.   – Bonny, Virginia

Dear Colleen Lynn,

So glad I came across your website, which I think is exceptionally well done and setting a high standard in terms of prevention and victim support.

I was pleased to see the South African media clips on your website.

No one will ever understand the sheer horror of being attacked by someone's pet unless you have been a victim yourself, or, as in my case, being the daughter of one who was savagely attacked and killed a few years ago (in the week prior to Father's Day).

I wish you all the best and may you receive all the funding you need and more to keep things going strong.   – Leana,  South Africa

Dear DogsBite.org,

I just wanted to say thank you for the awesome information on pit bulls. The citations you provide and the careful research you perform are an invaluable resource to counter all the propaganda speak out there and we will keep this information handy to inform those we encounter that have swallowed the lie.   – Laura, Washington

Dear Colleen Lynn,

As the parents of a child who endured a disfiguring near-death mauling by a pit bull terrier, I can't begin to express my gratitude by your founding Dogsbite.org. A lifelong dog enthusiast myself, I have also been concerned when mans best friend is bred to the extremes. That concern was realized in the nightmare our innocent 10-year old son endured -- the carnage an extremely ill bred dog can bring. My interest in both animals, dogs in particular, and my love for children moved me to public protection and victims' advocacy. I have been involved and often relied upon Dogsbite.org for guidance in the criminal and civil aspects of our ongoing ordeal that began over four years ago. Throughout this time and currently, I again rely upon you and the information collected on Dogsbite.org to compel public officials to see that this issue is not one of dog owners rights, but one that is a monolithic public health, welfare and safety threat.

My wife Irene and I both wanted to take the time to say that while your detractors are adversarial, well organized and effective at getting their message out, their legions are small. Ironically, their small pack and "big bark" crusade borders on vacuous in comparison to the vastly more representative concerns you address on behalf of the public on Dogsbite.org (you've got real bite).

Keep fighting the good fight. God bless.  – Anthony and Irene Solesky, Towson, Maryland

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Because of your strength and fight to save lives you truly are a hero and an inspiration to so many people including me!  – Michelle, Oregon

Dear DogsBite.org,

I would like to thank you for the effort and critical thought you have put into your website. I own a pit bull that recently angrily snapped at my 13-month-old daughter just for invading the dog's space. Luckily, the dog did not actually bite and my daughter was not harmed in any way. Thanks to your site, I will be removing the dog from my home as soon as possible without regret or hesitation. I will sleep easier now that I never have to worry about it potentially injuring my daughter. My wife and I adopted the dog several years ago from a local shelter after reading the pit bull propaganda, seeing the shows on TV, etc. Your website has made me realize that the continued ownership of these dogs is both highly dangerous to humans and cruel to the animals themselves who have been bred and domesticated for nothing more than personal entertainment. If a food or prescription had the same fatality and injury rate as pit bulls do, it would be banned instantly by the FDA.   – Jason, NY

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you. I am so thankful you are raising the alarm and bringing all of us together.

These stories make me cry. Best wishes,   – Rosemary, Florida

Dear Colleen Lynn,

You will be remembered for standing up for the right thing even when people tried to say you were wrong for it, standing headstrong to the truth in the name of those who have been silenced and ignored by the system. Things will change, and it will be because of your hard work and determination to stand by the truth, to give a voice to the victims of pit bull attacks. Without your ceaseless efforts, the movement would not be where it is today.  – Dana, Southwest

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for your courage to create an amazing website and stand up to those who don't want the truth to be told. I came across your organization while searching Google regarding pit bull attacks. I was stunned that there were so many victims of violent attacks out there. May you stay strong and steady through the storms of truth. You are spreading the truth and that is a valiant cause. Thank you for all that you do.   – Sarah, Idaho

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I just want to thank you once again for your dedication. Each time I receive your emails I am amazed at how clearly you are able to communicate the reality of the problem Pit Bulls are in our society. I really believe that you have been chosen by God to bring this problem to light and make a difference. I have been reminded once again to keep you in my prayers and thank God for you! If there is anything I can do to help you, I am always here and will do what I can to help. God Bless.  – Lisa, Pennsylvania

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you so much for your letter and recommendations. Your website has been of great help and comfort to us at this time and please know that you will always have a supporter in your court from our side of the argument. If we might be of any help in the future, please do not hesitate to let us know.  – Rusty, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for being the voice for so many! I recently found your page while searching for dog bite statistics. Fortunately, I've not been a victim of these vicious maulers. I've always been leery of them, however. I'm so grateful to have so much information at the tips of my fingers! This is a public safety issue, and I'm thankful for the voices raising the alarm, and the daunting task of trying to educate people and raise awareness. Thank you so much for all that you do!  – Rebecca, Oklahoma

Dear DogsBite.org,

I just wanted to take the time to thank you for sharing all this detailed information!

It is not often that you find a website that actually provides truthful information on pit bulls. I have worked in the veterinary and pet industry for over 25 years and have always been an advocate of honesty about the realities of this breed. While in the industries, people who do not share the belief that pit bulls are a "sweet and perfect family dog" are berated and told that you are not a pet lover.

Thank you for sharing this information and doing it in a way that is easy for people to understand!   – Cliff, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

We corresponded via email late last year, I discussed the attack on myself by two pit bulls. I am having a tough time psychologically dealing with all the hatred directed towards the victims of these attacks.  I have utilized your website regularly, and as a victim it has been most helpful, I continue to applaud you in your courageous efforts to stand firm against such hostile opposition. I wish you continued success with your ongoing attempts to educate others to the realities of certain breeds of dogs and hopefully one day eliminating these attacks all together. Kind Regards,  – Luke, Australia

Dear Colleen Lynn,

My dog and I were attacked by a pit bull two months ago. I just wanted to give you a heartfelt thank you for all you do. My anxiety swells just reading the comments and posts from the pit bull defenders. Sometimes I have to stay off the Internet for days just to regain my inner peace. They are so hateful. Please keep strong and know that you are an inspiration to so many victims. You are the resource I informed the Aldermen to research when I spoke at a public forum about my attack. Our city has now formed a committee to address the dangers that lurk and maul. If it weren't for people like you and many others on PBRP, I would never have fared so well and been able to be so pro-active. So here is a "Job Well Done" for you to shine light on the darkness that is so pervasive in the pit bull culture.  – Lucy, New Hampshire

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I would just like to say: your work is incredibly strong and inspirational, there is simply no arguing with it. It helps me to overcome my own feelings of powerlessness and find ways to confront this issue myself in my area. I am currently dabbling my toes in confronting pitbull owners and harnassing my own strength and finding out there is really nothing to fear except the current situation. Thank you very much.  – Rod, Netherlands

Dear DogsBite.org,

A gigantic thank you to Colleen Lynn and all who work on www.dogsbite.org! Without you, all of us victims of pit bulls and other dangerous dog attacks would have nothing to fall back on. We wouldn't know where to turn.

After the pit bull attacked my dog, I searched online for information to make sense of the attack. Your website gave me everything I needed: documented facts and statistics, other attack victims' stories, resources for dog bite victims, and a community of people who understand the trauma of such an attack.

Since then, I've been able to educate others by sending them to your website. I can't say thank you enough times for your valuable ongoing work.  – Sally, Washington

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for over four years of long hours, creativity and resourcefulness, which were all necessary to fulfill your commitment to preventing dangerous dog attacks. You have accomplished so much during this period, and the tide is beginning to turn in your favor, meaning more people are listening and paying attention to your information and how they can both protect themselves from an attack, and work in their communities to prevent attacks.

Each community is so different, with various resources, and often creative solutions to this problem. Communities with strength rise to the occasion. Communities without this strength will continue to suffer from attacks from dangerous dog attacks. We are all one in attempting to resolve these issues, and are moving forward together in a more cohesive manner, as the public understands your message.

Many blessings to you for all your heartfelt work and compassion for others.  – Susanne, Texas

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I want to thank you for your commitment to protecting innocent lives from the dangerous pit bull breed.

During my lifetime, I have witnessed 3 separate unrelated pit bull attacks. I witnessed these attacks over a 30 year period. In each case, the animal’s owners were completely shocked that their pet was capable of such an act of violence. I am now 50 years of age, and I am still frightened to go for walks in my neighborhood. These animals are inherently dangerous, and we should ALL have the right to feel safe in our community. I must say that I am shocked and appalled by the level of complete denial of facts and statistics that is demonstrated by the pit bull "advocates". I absolutely believe that your diligence has saved lives, and with the thoughtful consideration of our elected and appointed officials, I believe that many more lives will be spared.  – Mary E., Texas

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I want to thank you for the hard work and dedication you have in trying to protect people from dangerous dogs such as pit bulls. Your dedication is admired by all of us that are in this battle to try and restore some safety and peace to the people, children and normal family pets. Safety and peace that has been so badly disrupted by Pitbulls and the ProPitbull Lobby.

We appreciate your honest and tactful manner in which you report dog attacks. I hope that I can bring some help to the victim advocacy movement.  – Gail, Texas

Dear DogsBite.org,

I am thrilled to see a website that offers clear statistics on how dangerous these dogs really are. My family and I have had nothing but trouble with pit bulls throughout our lives. I have had family members terrorized and chased by pit bulls while riding bikes or jogging. One of our horses was bitten in the face by a pit bull several years ago. Worst of all, our neighbor’s rescued fighting pit bull mauled and killed our cat last year. I already knew it was a bad dog because it had previously growled at me when I tried to pet it. When it killed my beloved cat, it only provided further evidence that these vicious, deranged dogs should be banned. They are a threat to people and their pets everywhere. Thank you for all of your information and resources.   – A.W., Georgia

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Sending my deep admiration and support to you. You are making a difference!  – Catherine, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I've long wanted a website like yours to exist, and now I find that it does. And Dogsbite.org is far more comprehensive and informative than I could have imagined. It is deeply disturbing to note that many of the victims of pit bull attacks are either infants or elderly, which I didn't realize until I discovered your web site ... I'm grateful for your legislative advocacy, as well as the website. Thank you for your work, which we wholeheartedly support.  – Thomas, Washington

Dear DogsBite.org,

I am forever grateful for your dedicated, educated, and devoted efforts to collect rich data that will provide decision makers with the knowledge they need to make important safety decisions for others. I splurged toay and enjoyed a cupcake in your honor! Happy Birthday and I hope for decades more!   – Cat and Daisy Lynn, bassethoundtown.com

Dear Colleen Lynn,

How can I ever thank you for helping me to speak with validation about the horrific danger and trauma of pit bulls. On April 8, 2015 two neighborhood pit bulls jumped our fence and mauled our beloved cat “Mew” to death. Your website gave me a voice, and I am working hard helping our city people to understand the reality of what we are dealing with in the small community of 7,000 people in Iowa. Our daughter loved her cat so much. We all loved her. Living in the aftermath of a pit bull is hell. What Mew went through is unspeakable. Then to see the hundreds of children and adults who have gone through the same horror is gut wrenching … I am sending a copy of an editorial I wrote and was printed in our hometown newspaper, The Press, Charles City Iowa. Thank you for giving me a voice and the facts and stories needed to help me make change. God Bless you, and thank you, thank you, thank you!! Your work is in my prayers.  – Debra, Iowa

Dear DogsBite.org,

God bless you for all you do to educate people about this very real and serious issue. My friends in rescue hate my opinions about this, but as a professional trainer who studied aggression for over thirty years, I have read and studied so many heartbreaking stories that I simply don't think it is worth the risk for anyone to own one of these dogs as pets.  – Carol, Virginia

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you Thank you!! I love what you do! I have always felt the same as you, but you are much better at putting it into an understandable format!  You have made it very easy for me to raise awareness about how dangerous these dogs are.  – Richard, Connecticut

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I just found your site last night (following some links after reading about the most recent tragic child death from a pit bull in Wisconsin) and have been scarcely able to tear myself away to take care of necessaries such as sleep, shower, etc.!

I want to thank you for your excellent site. As a dog lover and rescuer, I have been troubled about what to make of these powerful animals called pit bulls.

Thankfully, I have never been attacked by such a dog. But I have developed a deep apprehension of this dog's predisposition to attacking other dogs, and their ability to inflict devastating harm.

I want to say again how grateful I am to see a voice of reason and sanity address this very troubling scourge in our society in such a straightforward, well-researched, and articulate way.  – Sue, Wisconsin

Dear DogsBite.org,

What a great site. Here in California, there was another deadly pit bull attack and a two-year-old boy is dead. I am sick of the cover-up regarding this breed. I am tired of hearing all the excuses for why pits are not to be blamed. You do an excellent and important job, and it is time we stood up to fanatics who continue to defend this breed.

I am a dog lover. I have always owned dogs, and understand how much they become a member of the family. That said, children are more important than a breed of dog. The pro-pit bull campaign has been effective, so much so that non-pit owners do not speak out, fearful that the will appear bigoted. They also believe the ridiculous "nanny dog" rhetoric. The lack of sensitivity towards victims is often stunning.

Your site is an oasis of sanity, and I am grateful it exists. Please, keep doing this important work so that eventually common sense wins out and legislation is enacted to protect our children, adults and pets from predatory dogs.  Deepest thanks and appreciation,   – Renee, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I just came across your wonderful website as I searched for any petitions to ban pit bulls. Thank you for your courageous and admirable work!   – Robert, Maryland

Dear Colleen Lynn,

My friend recommended your site after my attack. It meant so much to me that someone was doing something to enlighten the public about this menace. Now I am approaching the one year anniversary of my own attack. Though my injuries have healed, the inner scars remain deep. I still walk, but I don't get the same enjoyment out of it. I carry a golf club and tell everyone I see walking, pushing a stroller, or walking a small dog to take heed. I have been successful in getting two of these dogs removed from rental properties once I notify the landlords of their liabilities.

I am so proud of you for standing up bravely against the pro-pit bull people. I will continue to follow your site and support you 100%. I am so grateful for all that you do. You give comfort and compassion to many Colleen. Good for you! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.   – Katherine, Ohio

Dear DogsBite.org,

I just wanted to say thank you so much for your website. It has helped our family so much these last few months. Our 3-year old daughter was attacked by a 7-month old pit bull at a neighborhood BBQ. She was just walking past it to get a drink off the table, when it came after her. She has had two surgeries and we are hoping for a full recovery of her pinky after the nerve was severed. Our family has learned so much from your site and after our own experience, we are trying to spread the word on how dangerous these animals are. Thank you again,  – Sara, Colorado

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you so much for your tireless efforts on Dogsbite.org. Through your work, you have created the absolute best resource of pit bull and vicious dog information on the internet. I, myself, have not been a victim of a dog attack, but I came to understand the nature of pit bulls earlier this year when a young child in my town was brutally attacked and killed by one in a home where he should have felt safe. When I heard of the attack, I was rightly outraged and full of questions around why someone would choose a pit bull over one of the hundreds of other breeds much less likely to maim a child. I went to the Internet searching for answers and made the mistake of trying to have a civil conversation on a pit bull message board. When I asked why anyone would choose a pit bull, I was immediately attacked as hateful, uninformed, and treated as if I was evil. I was threatened, and my name, home address, phone number, and vehicle's license plate were posted publicly with the threat that I was now going to "pay for what I believed." I couldn't believe the utter vitriol directed my way and it was that day that I made my personal decision on pit bulls and their owners. I found your site and was greatly relieved that there were folks out there who were speaking the truth about these dogs and making the general public aware of the dangers hidden by groups such as the "Humane" Society (quotes intentional). I am now a financial and moral supporter of you and the site and make it my business to respond factually to any pro-pit propaganda that comes across my Facebook page. I've lost a few "friends" this way, but if I can change the mind of one person considering allowing a pit bull into their home, then I've done my job.

Please keep up the AMAZING work you are doing. It is absolutely having a positive affect in people's lives. I had a manager who told me once that if I'm not pissing off at least one person a day, I wasn't doing my job. The fact that the pro-pit folks are so up in arms about the site tells me that you are going way beyond what you have to do, and I thank you for that.  – Alvin, Arizona

Dear DogsBite.org,

Just wanted to let you know that your website has been so much help for my family. My 13-year old son was attacked on August 5th by a pit bull while doing mission work in our town. His wound on his leg required surgeries and a hospital stay. He is now in physical therapy and speaks with a therapist every week. Your website has helped us so much with the facts about dog bites, especially pit bulls. We usually sponsor a family for Christmas, but have decided this year to donate to medical funds for children who have been attacked by dogs. We were able to find these medical funds on your website, so thank you!  – Robbie, South Carolina

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I have always respected the work you do. I am a volunteer for dog rescue. The hardest thing I have to do is deal with a dog that bites, and I sometimes have to put them down. I do realize all dogs bite, it's just how hard they can bite, and it's not possible to put them in a situation where it will never happen. Your work is respected by people who own and love dogs!   – Smith, Colorado

Dear DogsBite.org,

I want to thank you for the great service your site provides for educating the public about the dangers of bringing pit bulls and other powerful aggressive dog breeds into homes.

I was once very close to being a pit bull "apologist." As a teenager and young adult, I was enamored with the bully type breeds. Not because of their fighting background, or to make myself look cool, or to be a so-called heroic rescuer. I just thought they were handsome dogs and I appreciated their coloration and physique. I believed that they were "misunderstood" dogs, which were feared for no valid reason.

Now that I am older, and have a 12-year old daughter, I am thankful that no one was ever harmed by the pit bull-mix dogs I naively brought into my home when I was younger. I'm thankful that the dog that did attack my only child when she was 6-years old was not a pit bull, or she might not be here today. Your website tagline is right. Any dog can bite, but "some dogs don't let go."

Thank you for your courage, your time, and your diligence in reporting the facts and collecting data. I know you come up against strong opposition for your work, but I know also that others are learning from your site, and I pray that through efforts like yours, one day this carnage will be a thing of the past.  – Shawna, Tennessee

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for your efforts to find the truth, backed up with factual information and available to anyone interested in the truth versus misinformation and bias. Keep up your good work. It is appreciated!  – Karen, Texas

Dear DogsBite.org,

I've had a great deal of success in writing pit bull notification letters. They've been sent to the owners of rental properties in my neighborhood. I've used information from your site while drafting these letters.

In the case of one letter, which was sent to the property management company handling a nearby rental house, the pit bull was gone within days. I don't know where it went. But I do know that it is no longer detracting from the peace, quiet, and safety of this neighborhood.

Thank you for creating such a valuable resource.  – Jean, Arizona

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Keep up the good work. There are so few rational people in this battle that you are truly a breath of fresh air.  – Gary Wilkes, Arizona

Dear Colleen Lynn,

DogsBite.org has likely prevented more maulings and deaths by pit bulls than we'll ever know, by its persistent precision and courage in offering the facts to the public. In the storm of half-truths and outright lies, DogsBite.org offers objective and true information about the pit-bull type dog and the mayhem it is committing daily on us and our neighborhoods. Not a thing on the site is invented or exaggerated, all is checked and double checked, information we can trust. The site is a place where real experts find a platform, experts who prefer scientific honesty to toeing the politically correct line and lining their pocketbooks. All this in the face of rabid attacks by the fans of this type of dog, who above all don't want the public to know the truth and have their weapon taken from them. In a nutshell, Colleen, I'm grateful that after your attack, you decided to do your best to prevent the same from happening to the rest of us and our children -- and to our normal dogs, our cats, horses, cattle in the fields. Thank you, and happy birthday to DogsBite.org! You have saved lives.  – Alexandra Semyonova, Netherlands

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I so appreciate your dedication to so many innocent people around the world who have dealt with a dangerous dog. My wife was attacked by pit bulls while out walking. She needed several operations and a big time blood transfusion. Your site tells people they are not alone. Maulings are horrific for the entire family. Thank you for your research, your bravery, your continued effort to speak for others to weak to speak for themselves. Ignore the hate, crime, and greed of those who promote a breed of dog over the safety of human beings.  – Pat, Indiana

Dear DogsBite.org,

Thank you for the great organization that fights for the rights of victims of vicious dog attacks and for the prevention of future attacks.  – Jeff, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Happy DogsBite Birthday and congratulations on this special event. I so admire your willingness to take on a controversial subject and explain it so clearly and thoroughly to the public so citizens have an opportunity to learn another perspective on dangerous dogs, that could save their families or neighbors from serious injury or death.  – Susanne, New Mexico

Dear DogsBite.org,

You can't imagine how glad I am that I stumbled across your web site. A couple of friends of mine have pit bulls and I had been considering getting one. I have been researching the breed for a couple of years and most of the things I have read have been on the sites of advocates. I began to buy into the notion that "it's all in how you raise them". After hearing this from a number of sources I figured I ought to get as much information as possible before getting a pit bull. I wanted to be sure I was knowledgeable enough to properly "socialize" the dog. The only thing that held me back was the fact that despite the proper socialization and training by pit bull owners, some dogs still attacked people. I just could not reconcile what the advocates were saying with the facts.

As I was researching the breed looking for the right formula to understand this issue I came across your web site. What an eye opener. I realized that what my intuition was telling me was right. There is something wrong with what these people are saying. Your web site provided the information I needed to set my thinking straight. Thank you for what you are doing. It must be difficult to preserver in the face of such illogical and persistent opposition. I am firmly in your camp and will do all I can to prevent the tragic events these awful animals cause.  – Charles, Indiana

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Your website was my only support for months and I thank you! You are a hero! What courage it takes to continue to write about victim after victim. GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU STRONG SO THAT YOU CAN CONTINUE THIS FOR ALL THE VICTIMS!  – Dogs Bite Decatur AL

Dear DogsBite.org,

Your website gave me the courage to take action, even when my local law enforcement official wouldn't do anything about my neighbor using his pit bull as a weapon to attack me. I felt like giving up, but when I would go to dogsbite.org, and read about all of the situations where others have been bitten by pit bulls, I renewed my thinking to take action. It paid off -- my neighbor no longer has the pit bull.  – Alma, Maryland

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I just ran across your site and wanted to let you know how happy I am that someone is compiling this information. About 20 years ago, a pair of loose pit bulls killed our beloved Scottish terrier by literally pulling him apart, and then they attacked my husband when he tried to defend our dog. We asked our City Council to ban pit bulls, but the usual pit bull supporters were able to sway their vote. My city still has no protection from pit bulls. Thank you for your efforts.  – Carol, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you.

I started to do research into the dangers of pit bulls when it was announced in 2008 that the ban in Holland would be lifted. I searched the Dutch internet, but I could not find any information so I decided to search the American websites. I ploughed through 5 pages of search results before I found Dogsbite.org. All the time I was becoming more and more suspicious. Dog owners all agreeing on a subject? Doesn't happen, never, but they all agree pit bulls are just like any other dog?

I started a website. Being warned by Dogsbite.org experiences, I registered 'tegenpitjes.nl' private. First the pit bull owners tried a DNS attack against my site. When that didn't work, they harassed my domain registrar. It got so bad for them I had to pull the plug on 'tegenpitjes.nl' and register my new website, 'tegenpitjes.info', in the States.

Thank you Colleen, your help was invaluable. I admire you so much. I have no words to describe it because I've never known anybody who I admire this much. Your courage is a shining example for me.   – Astrid, Founder of Tegenpitjes.info

Dear DogsBite.org,

THANK YOU SO MUCH for this website. MAGNIFICENT EYE-OPENER REALLY. And to the founder of dogsbite.org, Colleen, THANK YOU SO MUCH. You are so brave for doing this. THANK YOU. Someone needed to take a first step and you did so. And in a beautiful manner. THANK YOU. May your horrifying experience and consequent actions save many lives. You've probably saved many lives already. Thank you!  – Pedro, Portugal

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I am not a dog bite victim, just a person who is frustrated by reading time and time again about the attacks by these dogs. If anything even comes close to the horror of someone being attacked, it would be the attitudes of pit bull owners in the aftermath of an attack. I continue to be absolutely flabbergasted when one of these dogs kills a person and immediately the "don't blame the dog" and "that person must have done something wrong" and "dogs don't attack for no reason" comments start up, no matter if the victim is a baby, child, or elderly person; it makes no difference. There is very little sympathy for the victim and zero acknowledgement that there is even a POSSIBILITY that these dogs are dangerous.

I just read the "Not Normal Dog Owners" section on this website, and it is absolutely straight on. I have debated about these dogs for years and every time, I see every excuse or attempt at "logic" that you list as being tools of pit bull owners used to further their argument. Also, I completely agree about these owners being psychologically different in their relationships with their dangerous dog breed than other dog owners. I have almost felt as if I was arguing with people who did not even seem to understand the language I was speaking. For instance, recently a pit bull in my area -- adopted by the victim's family from an unnamed rescue 7 months earlier -- attacked and killed an 87-year old man as he lay on the floor taking down his Christmas tree. He was still being attacked when police arrived after receiving a 911 call from someone else in the home. I was once again horrified by the flood of people immediately advocating for the dog, while blaming the victim. I saw everything from "the man was old and possibly mean" to "who knows how the poor dog had been treated before" to, "there must be more to this story, pit bulls don't attack for no reason." There was also an outpouring of photos of infants and children with their pit bull dogs, to "prove" that their dogs are gentle as lambs. I have to say, it's horrible to think about what that poor man went through for possibly 20 minutes or more, and I seemed to be one of very few to even think about this.

I wanted to thank you for the information on this website. Some of what I read helped me to see that at least I wasn't imagining or blowing out of proportion the fact that these pit bull owners show no sensitivity or logical thinking when it comes to these dogs. Thank goodness there are others out there who have noticed it also.   – Jennifer, Maryland

Dear DogsBite.org,

Your website is awesome! My wife was attacked by a pit bull in our small town in Arkansas just over two years ago, and even though I have been searching the Internet for info on dangerous dogs since that time, I only found your site this weekend. I have no idea how my searches never "found" you before, but I am glad I finally found you. I am blown away by the work you have done here. Your site is a Godsend. I will be addressing our city council on Oct 4 and have been trying to pull the info together that I would need for my presentation all by myself. But now that I have found your site, I feel I have the support of an entire army! I knew I had the facts on my side before, but now I have the enviable problem of having too many facts ... Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!  – Matt, Arkansas

Dear Colleen Lynn,

After my horse Blue and I were attacked, one of my horse owner friends decided to spend hours at her computer and she sent me EVERYTHING she found on pit bull attacks. She sent a link to one of the first accounts of your attack, that story came with a link to the raw video of  your interview. I sat through the entire thing realizing that I was not alone ... In October of 2007 I stumbled upon Dogsbite.org and contacted you. This was before your identity was out there, but when you gave me your first name I knew exactly who you were. That first time we talked on the phone, we finished each other’s sentences. People who have not been through this do not understand, people who have been through it understand without words. I value your friendship more than anything.  – Carol, Ohio

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for all that you do -- your website is a great resource.  – Kim, North Carolina

Dear DogsBite.org,

I have had many animals over the years. I wanted to thank you for your website! Your site is written so well and the information is priceless. I have been feeling very alone in my dislike for pit bulls and the ignorance that usually goes with this breed. It seems like every time I turn around more and more people are advocating for pits. I don't understand it, do they not read, watch the news or listen to others? Well you know this all too well. Again I am very thankful for your time, energy and very informative site. I no longer feel alone in my decision to not support this breed. I will spread the word about your site and help support the cause when I can. Thank you,  – Carmie, Utah

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you never feels like a great enough word when I think of what you do for all of us -- us in the past, us here in the present, and those who haven't needed you yet, but may. You are such an incredible example of bravery and resilience.  – Tamie, Canada

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I'm a former full-time dog behavior consultant who specialized in aggression cases. I wanted to thank you for your very well-designed and helpful site. You converted me from being anti-BSL to realizing that pit bull ownership and breeding must be very tightly controlled. I no longer believe all the myths about pit bulls being "safe, good dogs" made temporarily bad only by "bad owners" who taunt and tease them … Thanks for setting up the site, tolerating the abuse from the pro-pit-bull groups, and I hope your arm made a full recovery after your tragic run-in with that pit bull in Seattle.  – Sharon, Wisconsin

Dear DogsBite.org,

I am the father of a 6-year old boy that was viciously attacked on Thursday, at my neighbors home in Locust Grove, Georgia. I came across your site while trying to find resources to help me in my cause of changing the laws in my county and potentially my state. The dogs have been out unattended before and unfortunately this had to happen. The news station would not even air the pictures due to the graphic nature. I will be reviewing your website as it has very good information and I would love to help to advance this cause.  – Kimani, Georgia

Dear DogsBite.org,

I like your site, I send people to it regularly.  – Jeff, Michigan

Dear Colleen Lynn,

First of all, your site does absolutely first rate research. Without your findings, when I had my pit bull moment, I would have been rudderless in a sea of inequity. For a nonprofit to do the kind of work you do, informing people like myself about the grave realities of that breed, it's really gratifying to see your growth and I'm really happy to give witness to your effectiveness in the battle against a true public safety menace.

My story:

One year ago I had a family move in next door to mine with what appeared to me to be some sort of Pit Bull mix. The dog was a female about 80 lbs. and just over one year old. I voiced concern with the owner, as I have a wife, 4 year-old boy, and infant daughter. After all, we shared common areas, the same fence dividing our property in the back, a car port, and our doors were roughly 5 feet apart in a town home association.

I was assured that the animal had no Pit Bull blood and was friendly with children. However, I had been advised by a good friend that the breed was nothing to take lightly, pure bred or not, so I started to search the Internet. When I found your site, I couldn't believe the back log of devastation the pit bull breed had levied across our country. I tried to contact lawyers, the local animal shelter, etc., but was told by all the above they could do nothing unless there was an "incident." Therein lies the rub. Any incident with that dog could result in a death or maiming to my family.

I contacted you and you provided information. Through my steps with the owners of that property, which resulted from my interaction with your site Dogsbite, I was able to influence the removal of that dog. I was also able to keep it from becoming a confrontational event, and insure timely action. For the two to three weeks it was still there, it rushed me twice as I was leaving my property through the back. If there is no gate or fence, I'm certain I would have been attacked. If that dog ever got a hold of my wife or children, I'm certain the results would have been ruinous.

Your site enabled a proactive response, which is really the only way to deal with a threat like that. Current laws demand some sort of violent and unchangeable actions to be carried out, which is completely unacceptable to people in danger, just like my family was at that time.

Thank you for your support in my time of need.   – George, California

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for your continued work to create awareness about dangerous dogs.  – Karin, Pennsylvania

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I just read your post about the four year anniversary of your attack and want to let you know I truly empathize with you and can't begin to imagine what that experience was like. I think you've done a remarkable thing by stepping up to the plate and pursuing such a worthwhile cause with your website. Although I love and respect animals, I believe that dangerous dogs are a menace to society and that our lawmakers are much too lenient in allowing them to be owned as pets. I can't understand why this is allowed while at the same time there are restrictions on the ownership of most other types of vicious animals. If there are laws to prohibit people from keeping lions and tigers in their back yards then the same thing should be done regarding pit bulls, which are just as deadly and attack with even more frequency. I live in Florida where there have been a number of attacks and fatalities recently, and the most recent fatality in Hawthorne, FL last week could have been prevented if law enforcement and animal control had done their jobs properly and used good judgment by putting the dogs down after they had attacked the first victim over a year ago ... Thanks for all you're doing and keep up the great work. May God bless you and your efforts.  – Dora, Florida

Dear DogsBite.org,

I love your organization -- you are doing good work! My 3-year-old son, while riding his bike, was attacked by a leashed pit at our local library -- completely unprovoked. I have referenced this site often in my campaign to help protect others from this deadly breed ... Thanks so much for all you are doing!  – Karen, Washington

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I'm a new fan of your website and can tell that a lot of smart, concerned and proactive people are behind it ... As a neighborhood leader, I've taken a new interest in this issue, especially since owning pit bulls continues to be the "fad" in our city and in the neighborhood. I do not understand how parents could allow their kids to own these dogs, without knowing anything about raising, training or controlling animals. It's like giving them a loaded gun ... Keep up the GREAT work on your website - nothing beats education when it comes to issues like this.  – Margaret, Mississippi

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for your voice, wisdom and knowledge. You have been an invaluable resource.   – Larry, Oregon

Dear DogsBite.org,

Thank you for existing!

Thank you for keeping up this work.

Thank you for not stepping aside because of the threats and aggressive behavior by these so-called "responsible owners" of agressive dog breeds.

Thank you for the courage and perseverance to inform the world about the real danger of harmful, terrible monsters.

Thank you for collecting the necessary data and publishing them.

Thank you for creating a network of people who are willing to let the world know how dangerous these dogs are ...

I hope there will be a day when there is no reason to celebrate your next birthday, once all those aggressive breeds are banned. But until that day:

Happy birthday and thank you for existing.   – Elisabeth, Washington

Dear Colleen Lynn,

Thank you for this site. I hope more people will read it and make wiser decisions about what kind of animals they choose to make a part of their families. Knowing what I know about how unreasonable people get when it comes to their pets, I can TOTALLY believe that you get hate mail. Don’t let it get you down! You’re doing the community a service. I love most dogs, but ever since one bit my face I am uncomfortable around them, especially when they jump up on me or get near my face. Dogs, which were once a source of joy for me, now scare me a little. People laugh at me when I get nervous around them, which makes me feel stupid and weak, like I'm the one with the problem. Your site makes me feel like I'm not alone.

Thanks again for publishing the truth about what certain dogs are capable of. Don’t let the haters get you down!  – Jamie, Texas

Dear Colleen Lynn,

I am so happy to hear of your new status. Your website has helped so many people understand what we all have been through. Thank you so much for being such an inspiration and valuable source of knowledge. I completely understand how you felt after your attack because I felt the exact same way. I feel lucky to have such a wonderful friend and I have so much respect for you. Keep working hard on this difficult task.  – Yvonne, California

Dear DogsBite.org,

Thanks for all that you have done and continue to do in compiling these statistics and reports. I became more interested in the attack statistics of this breed after multiple, negative contacts with pit bulls involving my family and pets in the last couple of years in our normal, middle-class neighborhood. Nothing tragic has occurred to date, thank God, but the mere presence of these animals in our neighborhood keep us aware of our surroundings at all time. You shouldn't have to be on condition yellow at all times just being outside in your own neighborhood because of dangerous dogs.  – Devon, Florida

Dear DogsBite.org,

You just made a friend for life, you are indeed a force for good, please feel free to call on me at any time. God bless,  – MJ, North Carolina

Dear DogsBite.org,

I just wanted to say that I think your website is fantastic. I also wanted to thank you for compiling this information about aggressive dog breeds (notably the pit bull), and educating the public. There is a continual need to educate people about responsible dog ownership and the added liability of owning a pit-type breed. Unfortunately, many people will never "get it," ... Again, thank you for your hard work!  – Suzanne, Virginia

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