Another Conflict Between Dogs and Runners: Runner Mauled, Dogs Dead, Owner in Limbo

The other day we posted an article about conflicts between dogs and runners in Central Park. Now see this AP news item about some pit bulls apparently let loose by their owner:

A San Diego County runner who said he had chunks torn from his legs by pit bulls said he thought he would die during the mauling.

"I was dripping blood from all over — my shirt, socks, shoes," Richard Garritson, 21, told the San Diego Union-Tribune on Monday after undergoing surgery.

Garritson and his brother were attacked by a pack of pit bulls as they jogged on a trail late Sunday afternoon about a mile from their home.

Garritson said he was running ahead of his sister, Meagan Garritson, when at least eight dogs attacked. One bit his leg and a second grabbed his other leg, knocking him down, Garritson said.

. . .

He said the brothers knew where the dogs lived and they yelled for the owner, who managed to get all but three dogs into the house. The owner finally put a leash on one of the larger dogs and the others broke off the attack, Richard Garritson said.

. . .

Four dogs, all 7-month-old pit bull mixes, were destroyed at the owner's request, county animal control Lt. Dan DeSousa said.

The department continues to investigate and will decide whether to pursue charges against the owner, he said.