What to do with neighbors that shoot guns?

United States
January 4, 2008 11:53pm CST
I recently moved to the country because people in town hassled me about my dogs. I have two small children and love the fact that they have almost five acres to run and play. Unfortunately I have next door neighbors that like to fire their weapons. I though nothing of it since it is an open field behind us until my female shepherd was shot through her milk sack while running on my property. The first thought in my head was what if it were one of my children. If I here them shooting, then I can't let the girls out to play. How do I handle such a situation. I do not know how responsible these people are. I do not want to start trouble with my new neighbors. I tried to introduce myself on thanksgiving but they went inside when I pulled up and would not answer the door. I have to live next to these people and do not wish to start trouble. I'm not sure what to do.
2 responses
@david2005 (798)
• Canada
4 Feb 08
I would call the cops about it cause if something happened to one of your children then you wouldn't be able to forgive yourself about it. The smartest thing though would be to just move cause that wont cause any trouble and at least you know your kids will be safe.
@wmaharper (2316)
• United States
9 Jan 08
I grew up in the country, and we had about 70 acres of prime hunting land.. (woods with a creek on it) and during hutning season, we had to wear orange out to the bus stop.. seriously. We had no trespassing signs on our property, but we would always catch people out their hunting, and it was quite scary to think that we would wear orange hats, so they wouldn't think we were a deer, and shoot us. WHen they shot your dog, what did you do about it? did you file a report with someone? You should, if you haven't .. so it's on record.. If you ever find bullets or casings on your property, call the cops.. and report it.. they should never be allowed to shoot on your property. if you can afford to.. fence in part of your yard..an acre or so.. and allow your children to roam freely in it.. If it is fenced in..where they can't see in, they won't be shooting at deer or any kind of animal through it..that would be my biggest concern, that they see an animal, or think they do, and decide to shoot through your yard.. then your kids still have freedom to roam, but it's a bit safer.. I wish you could just keep them from shooting, but the same freedom that protects you from people taking away your dogs, is the same one that protects them and their rights to shoot.. but if you can prove that they are acting irresponsible you may be able to do something about it. I would do whatever I coudl to protect my children, even if that meant looking for a new house.. and researching the neighbors beforehand.. (: Good luck to you and your family.