Dogs have long been associated with warding off unwanted visitors. Especially big dogs, ones with intimidating barks and aggressive breeds. One alarm company even offers the “Robo-Dog” which lets out 95 decibels of electronic barking made to mimic the scariest breed’s bark.
But are real dogs better at protecting your home than an alarm system? And if dogs are brought home for the sole purpose of protection, what does the dog have to lose? Let’s break it down:
Cost: If it’s protection you want, the alarm system wins. The one-time installation fee is much cheaper than a dog’s lifetime of food supplies and unanticipated medical bills.
Efficacy: The alarm system is connected to your alarm company and, in some cases, a police station that will be able to immediately response to your needs. A dog will….well…bark, which may alert you to any trouble, but if your dog is anything like my Reba, she will most likely bark until a burglar leans down to pet her and then maybe she will lick the intruder to death or just roll over on her back and let them rub her tummy. Some protection.
Social Implication: Dogs are social animals and they thrive on the interactions they have with their owners. Many owners who use dogs for protection choose to keep their pets as outdoor animals, which can be both psychologically damaging and physically trying on the dog, leading to aggression. You don’t have to spend time with your alarm system.
Dogs are wonderful companions that can bring so much into their owner’s life. They deserve better than to be relegated to protection duty. If the main reason for purchasing a dog is protection, it’s time to cal the local alarm company.
The Los Feliz Ledger serves the communities of Los Feliz, Silver Lake, Atwater Village and the Hollywood Hills.
Website Design by
Subscribe to comments
All content © 2010 by Los Feliz Ledger