The chances of me getting arrested for sneaking out and headlighting deer on my property because i don't like them jumping up and scaring the squirrels while I hunt is very small too. But that does not change the fact that it is illegal. Seems like folks are very much law and order around here until it comes to their personal pet peeve and then suddenly it is only illegal if you get caught.

Also, if you check around you will find some cases of people being arrested and prosecuted for shooting dogs. Such cases may be rare, but they do happen. And in some cases, shooting a dog is felony animal cruelty and one can face high fines, jail time, and a civil suit. Depending on the felon, it could also result in loss of the right to own guns. Thats kind of a steep price to pay for pulling the trigger before exhausting all other options.

For those who are interested in this topic from a legal rather than emotional issue, check out the Georgia Animal Cruelty Act of 2004. Shooting a dog is illegal unless a human, livestock, or property is in imminent danger from the dog. Texas, Michigan and a number of other states have similar laws in place. Shooting a dog for chasing deer is not protected in such legislation.

People can do what they want. To tell the truth i don't really care. But this is a discussion forum and i am just trying to discuss the fact that people do not have near the freedom to legally shoot dogs that they think they do. So while they CAN shoot and shovel, they CAN also get in very hot water if they are caught.