Dogs for home security in modern, and old-time Phoenix


A few years ago I was watching a Western with a good friend of mine, and in an exciting scene, where the bad guys sneak up on the ranch, we both had the same thought at the same time: where were the dogs?

I visited this friend today, and as usual his security system was working just fine. Of course, I was admitted, as my credentials were smelled and OK'd. I wouldn't want to think of what could happen if I were a bad guy! I've known these dogs for a very long time, and they're very friendly, but make no mistake, these are the kind of powerful animals who would probably die defending their territory.

So, getting back to the movie, I know, it was just a movie - I know that. But that kind of thing puts me to mind of how extremely effective this type of security system is, and you'd better believe that it was used in old-time Phoenix long before signs for security companies were planted in front yards, and even before electricity.

And maybe that's one of the reasons that our view of the past gets so blurred, with movies, and books. But please don't get me wrong, I love the West of the Imagination. The movie scene wouldn't be as exciting if all that happened is that the bad guys got within 100 feet of the ranch and were chased off, or possibly bit in the hindquarters.

And if you're wondering if a good shootin' iron could take down a big, vicious dog, yes of course it could. That is, if you aimed carefully or were lucky. If not, that animal would just keep coming and you would rue the day you decided to become a bad guy. If it's a terrible thought, but even injured, these animals would still keep coming.

I patted those great big heads today, and I was glad that I'm a good guy!
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