People are idiots

You've gotta read this!

Vt. court eyes value of love of man's best friend

"The Scheeles are particularly devoted pet owners. They feed their dogs human food, brush the dogs' teeth and dress them in raincoats when it's wet outside."

So these people were on a visit and they turned their dog loose. The dog was in the neighbor's yard. The elderly neighbor took a  shot at it with a pellet gun. Instead of hitting the dog's rear end he hit it in the chest and severed an artery. The dog died on the way to the vet.
Now they are suing the old plugger for loss of companionship and emotional distress.

Mrs. Scheele has quit her job as a "meeting planner" and devoted her time to advocating for animal welfare. She also has adopted several abused dogs.

Unfortunately this has not left time for much needed counseling. I feel bad for the old dude that shot the stupid dog. This is what happens when you admit you were at fault. This is way the idea of Shoot, Shovel, and Shut up has become so popular in recent years. As a dog owner I understand the need to keep your dog at home. I admit this is hard to do and I understand that he may infact get shot some day. I will feel bad, angry, hurt, and probably want revenge as well. Those are all natural emotions. In the end I will have to say. "He shouldn't been crapping in the neighbor's yard."