I'm so sorry for your loss RJ.  Some people just don't understand what it's like living in the country.

Earlier this morning I was reviewing the wildlife cameras that I have set up on my property (35 acres in Keystone Heights).  Two images of interest were of a bobcat and a coyote right on our campsite.  I've also seen and/or captured images of other nuisance wildlife on my property as well as welcome wildlife.  I worry when we have the dogs out there because of the size of both of them.  One is a miniature pinscher that is my wife's "baby".  The other is a dog that we rescued from out in the woods which is a mix of lab, pit bull and my best guess is some kind of shepherd.  While the lab/pit/shepherd mix is plenty large enough to defend herself, she is no match for a coyote or a pack of them.

Dogs (no matter the breed) are companions and very protective.  My dogs have killed snakes and other varmints that are undesirable.  They will do their best to protect not only myself and my wife, but also our property which is their territory.  At the same time they co-exist with our 2 cats and sometimes even play with them.  If an "outside" cat came onto our property, I don't think that they would take too kindly to that unless it was us that brought it onto the property.

My advice is to get another pup or two.  It's hard at first, but you will still build that bond that you had with your other two.

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