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Posts: 2276
  
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | As most of you know we are buying a house...YAY! Well now, I'm getting a little nervous-never lived away from home, lived in the same town my whole life(small town, everyone knows everyone). Our house is about 40 minutes from my parents and in a decently remote area. There are some other people within a couple miles from us. Well, we found out today as we were getting our homeowners insurance set up and there was a claim on our house that it was broken into a year ago which scares me a little. There is now a security system on the house. Mind you the area we are moving to isn't a bad area at all. But SO works second shift so I will be home at night by myself. Any tips and suggestions for being me being at home by myself? I was nervous anyway but knowing it's been broken into scares me more. We have 2 dogs coming with us. Both are small but noisey one is NOT a fan of strangers
Edited by lexyy12 2014-04-22 2:09 PM
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  Warmblood with Wings
Posts: 27846
 
Location: Florida.. | Id not post it on a public forum for one thing
get a dog
and security lights |
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 Extreme Veteran
Posts: 443
Location: Southern IL somewhere between KY and MO | learn to shot my dear!! |
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 Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | Motion flood lights. And keep some sort of either landscape or outside lights on, like the dusk to dawn ones. Sometimes it bothers me when we are driving and I see houses that are nearly pitch black because I can just picture the creepiness :)
Also, a good dog will make the world of a difference sometimes. Hubby is military, so between deployments and nights like tonight when he won't be coming home, I feel safer with my dogs. |
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Damn Yankee
Posts: 12390
Location: Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace | coco~n~cash - 2014-04-21 10:22 PM learn to shot my dear!!
This.....and don't be afraid to let ppl know that you can shoot :) |
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Expert
Posts: 1477
Location: In the land of peanuts and cotton | I'm very big into women being able to protect them selves so I will tell you, get a pistol, shot gun or both and know how to use them in a bad situation. Practice practice practice because when in a scary situation you may not be able to think about what you need to do to make you pistol/gun work. Practice often and until it becomes second nature. Also learn to shoot quick and with precision because you may not get a second shot. |
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 Swiffer PIcker Upper
Posts: 4015
Location: Four Corners Colorado | Get a mastiff.
I used to have a problem with a neighbor sneeking around my place at night, after I got my Mastiff that stopped real quick. No one wants to question a 200lb dog. |
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 Expert
Posts: 1384
Location: Kansas | When broken into was it occupied or no one living there?
I agree with taking the different security precautions |
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Expert
Posts: 1255
| I live 40 miles from town and three miles from Mexican boarder so I bought me a gun.I also had my dogs attack when someone tried to break in a few years. I had always thought people were the same every where but turns out i was so wrong. |
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 Certified Snake Wrangler
Posts: 1672
Location: North MS | We also have a wireless surveillance system (brand is lorex). It records to a DVR type system. Plus I have 3 outside dogs. One is a bulldog mix of some sort. Might have pit in it but I don't know. The bad thing is while people are looking at the mean looking one- the fluffy one sneaks up on you. Plus I have a noisy inside dog. Having plenty of guns never hurts. My husband is on 3rd shift. I'm used to living alone though. My dad works on a month long shift so I grew up used to it. Then college away from home- rented and no dorm. Also- if you don't have obvious signs about your security system it wouldn't hurt to get some. The surveillance system cameras are an extra deterrent. They also make a driveway alarm that sounds in your home when someone drives up. |
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 Expert
Posts: 2457
| Hey girl - best thing I have ever done in my life - took a self defense class for women, this included firearms and concealed carry. When I graduated grad school, moved to nowhereville USA by myself with my dog, my dad bought me a pistol and the class so I would know what to do and when.
BEST thing I have ever done. Whatever you choose to protect yourself with - PRACTICE a TON. Make sure you know everything about the weapon and can proficiently use it.
And, DOGS rock :) They will figure it out real fast when you are home alone and become more protective too! |
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | I will have 3 noises dogs at home with me but all 3 are small. But one could probably do some damage!! I think there are stickers in some of the windows stating that there is a security system. They were living there when the house was broken into. |
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 Texas Taco
Posts: 7499
Location: Bandera, TX | A German Shepherd and a gun.
When I am out in public with my GSD on a leach people we ask me if it is safe to come close. My dog is a goofy butt, but I'm sure could do some damage if she had to. The breed as such just has the reputation to most that they will hurt you. That reputation alone helps. |
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 Accident Prone
Posts: 22277
Location: 100 miles from Nowhere, AR | My German shepherd is infamous around here--some dogs won't face people down and will back off if confronted or attacked--it just makes her madder. She takes good care of us.  I know how to use a gun as well, and between those 2 things, I sleep like a baby when my husband is gone. |
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 Veteran
Posts: 222
Location: Texas | Like everyone has said a good dog and some guns and the knowledge how to use it. My hubby does turnarounds last year he was gone 8 months out of the year. I live in the middle of 30 acres with two kids under 5. I sleep like a baby at night due to my doberman/lab cross. He's the biggest sweetie and loves everyone until you try to sneak in the house at night ( as the hubby found out.) He's all teeth and legs. I just recently got a Dutch Shepard as well who is already proving to be an amazing dog. And I have no doubt she would stand her ground if threatened Also you would be surprised how fast someone will turn tail and run when they hear you racking that shot gun! Take some classes, and most importantly have a plan of attack if God forbid someone tries coming in. |
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | I've never really been around guns growing up. My dad had one for protection but never got it out...I had never shot a gun until I met my SO. I've shot a few times but I'm going to start practicing more and I'm getting my own gun. We were going to get a German shepherd but now he wants a hunting dog...thinking a lab. Are they good at protecting? |
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 Dog Resuce Agent
Posts: 3459
Location: southeast Texas | program your mind, Be prepared, shoot to kill. No hesitation, an intruder means to harm you.
look into a Taser. And bear repellant. Supposed to be more potient than regular pepper spray
Plus with your own gun, get a grip that fits your hand
Edited by roxieannie 2014-04-22 9:35 AM
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Elite Veteran
Posts: 667
| I live alone.. in a remote area. I sleep with my gun.. and I have two dogs.. motion lights outside..
And I have had one incident where i thought i might have to shoot.. all I can say is try to prepare yourself (harder than you think)... When the situation arises... your adrenaline/nerves will take over. No matter how prepared you think you are....your probably not. I was so scared and shaking so badly that there is no telling where my gun would have ended up hitting if I fired. But I also learned, In that situation, to take a breath and remain calm.. getting wigged out doesnt help at all..
as a previous poster said.. shoot to kill.. and wait till they are inside.
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 Party Girl
Posts: 12293
Location: Buffalo, Wyoming | I live 20 miles from town on 4 miles of dirt road in the middle of 14,000 acres. My SO is gone 4-5 days out of the week so I am out on the ranch alone most of the time. If anyone comes down the road/driveway it is a big deal for us as the only people that should be down there are us, our landlord or the neighboring ranch that leases some of the ground. We have been known to run people down and ask what they are doing out there.
Anyway we have 4 dogs. 2 big ones and 1 little yapper. One big one sleeps next to the door every night and will not let anyone in she doesn't know. We also keep a gun next to the bed, next to the door in the bedroom and next to the door leading into our mudroom/front door. If the dog doesn't get you the gun sure will.
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | Are labs good at protecting or no? |
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Swiffer PIcker Upper
Posts: 4015
Location: Four Corners Colorado | lexyy12 - 2014-04-22 9:08 AM Are labs good at protecting or no?
Some are some aren't. Thats why I like english mastiffs, guarding is what they were bred for. Trust me they really make an impact of people. Lol ask my plumber, he was walking through the house and the cat had let the mastiffs out. All I heard what "thats a BIG dog.!" and he totally froze. He didn't even see the one behind him. No bark, just deep deep growl.
I also traveled with one. I had run in the store and left the truck running and a friend was sleeping inside and someone came up and opened the door without Looking and the mastiff lunged into the front seat. The guy took off running and my dog stopped just outside of the door of the truck barking. I really liked that she stayed with the truck and my friend instead of giving chase.
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Accident Prone
Posts: 22277
Location: 100 miles from Nowhere, AR | equussynergy - 2014-04-22 10:19 AM lexyy12 - 2014-04-22 9:08 AM Are labs good at protecting or no? Some are some aren't. Thats why I like english mastiffs, guarding is what they were bred for. Trust me they really make an impact of people. Lol ask my plumber, he was walking through the house and the cat had let the mastiffs out. All I heard what "thats a BIG dog.!" and he totally froze. He didn't even see the one behind him. No bark, just deep deep growl.
I also traveled with one. I had run in the store and left the truck running and a friend was sleeping inside and someone came up and opened the door without Looking and the mastiff lunged into the front seat. The guy took off running and my dog stopped just outside of the door of the truck barking. I really liked that she stayed with the truck and my friend instead of giving chase.
Most labs I've known would lick everyone to death. |
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Blessed 
Location: Here | Honestly, You need to go to a shooting range and take some courses. One rule of thumb, is if you pull your gun, You have better be prepared to use it. Don't ever point a gun and then back down or hesitate.
Not to hurt your feelings, but you need to toughen up emotionally. This is why I think all children when they graduate high school, need to leave the nest and learn to live on their own. No BoyFriend no Girlfriend. Learn to be alone. You would be amazed at what this will teach you. You need to learn some independence and gain some self confidence |
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 A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas | The best ever watch dogs I have had are my Heelers, they are very territorial and become very attached to their owners. When someone would come up in the yard and my dogs did not know them they would always stand between me the stranger, and you did not mess with my kids, love these dogs. |
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Blessed
Location: Here | Barbara has some amazing tips that will help you gain confidence not only around horses and in the arena but in Life as well Check out her free newsletter http://barbraschulte.com/personal-performance-what-does-that-mean/ |
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Miracle in the Making
Posts: 4013
| personally i don/t have any outside lights they can/t see unless they have light their own.
also carpet tack strips nailed in front of windows will hurt
i can/t shoot a gun nor ca i unlock doors my doors or never locked have not been locked in 20 yrs
i ask the lord to have angels surround my home at night |
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I Really Love Jeans
Posts: 3173
Location: North Dakota | Take a class on how to handle a handgun, I would suggest a 9mm, it is small and easier for a woman to hold and practice shooting. Your house has an alarm system, you should always have it set, even if you are doing yard work etc....Get a dog, even if it is a small dog it will bark if a stranger pulls up in your yard. Have dusk till dawn lights. It is not expensive too run lighting in the shrubs around the house, it looks nice but keeps the house from being in the dark. Put a sign at the end of your drive advertising the alarm company. Here you need a permit each year for your alarm so call the alarm company as soon as you move in and activate it. The permit registers you with the police and fire dept!! Make sure your address can been seen on your mailbox incase you ever need the police or firedept they can find you easily! |
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 Stinky Cat Owner
Posts: 4097
Location: Oregon | As someone that is NEVER alone and is completely surrounded by people it seems at all times - I ENVY YOU!! 
Just having an alarm system and a dog makes me feel safe when I do get the rare moment of being alone at my place. You will get used to it and it will be old hat. Congrats on your new house!!!  |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 490
| SG. - 2014-04-22 10:33 AM
Honestly, You need to go to a shooting range and take some courses. One rule of thumb, is if you pull your gun, You have better be prepared to use it. Don't ever point a gun and then back down or hesitate.
Not to hurt your feelings, but you need to toughen up emotionally. This is why I think all children when they graduate high school, need to leave the nest and learn to live on their own. No BoyFriend no Girlfriend. Learn to be alone. You would be amazed at what this will teach you. You need to learn some independence and gain some self confidence
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) |
Your not going to hurt my feelings! :) I do need to toughen up. I think I am just nervous about moving, add on being alone and then add on finding out it's been broken into! I have 1 dog that nothing happens that he doesn't know about! We are definitely getting a bigger dog too! I think once I'm used to being there by myself I will feel better. We are going gun shopping this weekend and going shooting!! |
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | Katie's - 2014-04-22 12:15 PM
As someone that is NEVER alone and is completely surrounded by people it seems at all times - I ENVY YOU!! Just having an alarm system and a dog makes me feel safe when I do get the rare moment of being alone at my place. You will get used to it and it will be old hat. Congrats on your new house!!!
Thank you! :) I envy you!! I'm used to be surrounded at all times...almost! |
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Blessed
Location: Here | lexyy12 - 2014-04-22 11:32 AM Your not going to hurt my feelings! :) I do need to toughen up. I think I am just nervous about moving, add on being alone and then add on finding out it's been broken into! I have 1 dog that nothing happens that he doesn't know about! We are definitely getting a bigger dog too! I think once I'm used to being there by myself I will feel better. We are going gun shopping this weekend and going shooting!!
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 443
Location: Southern IL somewhere between KY and MO | We have 4 dogs 1 lab she will love you but let you know when someone is at the door. Hybred that will tear you a new one and he son that is just as mean and my aussie that seems to be the most protective and meanest LOL. then of course if you get past the dogs then you get to meet either Mr Smith or Mr Wesson. |
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 Own It and Move On
Location: The edge of no where |
^^ Best advice yet!
Being alone isn't scary or bad....don't rely on someone else to protect you, get comfortable taking care of yourself.
I would adopt 2 big outside dogs asap... heeler, aussie, german shepard.. I've never been around a lab that was worth a flip as a guard dog, they'd all just lick you to pieces.
Have a little 'yip' dog inside with you, outside dogs in the yard...and a gun where it's easy to get too.
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Expert
Posts: 1432
| I live out in the middle of no where and hve a mean dog. She is very protective and I feel much safer when she is with me. She is border collie/ German shepherd mix. I found her at a rescue shelter. She is everything I hoped she would be. Very protective and smart.
Edited by 3TurnsonSpud 2014-04-22 1:30 PM
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| I agree with everybody else on here....
Gun and dog...
I have a black lab mix and he die to protect me. My hubby also taught me to shoot. I had a few guns before i finally got one i love. it is a smith and wesson revolver. If you are not used to guns i recommend a revovler cuz it wont jam like any of my pistols did. And they are super easy to use.
We live near a truck stop in no mans land and one night the neighbor called me saying she saw a man in her back yard. Because of this... When hubby aint home I have guns strategicly placed loaded throughout the house and out of sight so i can be prepared no matter what room i'm in.
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 Chatty Kathy
Posts: 6635
Location: In Ky following Barrel Races & Walker hounds. | We have a coondog, a beagle, a Doberman and a lab... The coondog will definitely let you know if someone pulls up, and she is loud and big. The lab pup and the Dobie go on alert if someone knocks, and if they get in, I doubt they stay in very long with him right behind them... I 2nd "get a gun" also. |
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Sideways Riding Expert
Posts: 11371
Location: ND--it snows, it floods, it snows, it floods | Some labs are good and I really think it depens on the socilazation. My choc. lab is not a stranger lover and will get between me and any stranger that is in the yard. My black lab on the other hand LOVES people but is a jumper so she also has well placed paws to certain regions of a persons anatomy that can do some damage. You may want to get two pups so they grow up together ect. A hunting buddy for hubby and something for yourself. Just a thought.
Edited by docschic 2014-04-22 2:06 PM
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The Resident Destroyer of Liberal Logic
Location: PNW | Kgirl - 2014-04-22 1:36 PM
I agree with everybody else on here....
Gun and dog...
I have a black lab mix and he die to protect me. My hubby also taught me to shoot. I had a few guns before i finally got one i love. it is a smith and wesson revolver. If you are not used to guns i recommend a revovler cuz it wont jam like any of my pistols did. And they are super easy to use.
We live near a truck stop in no mans land and one night the neighbor called me saying she saw a man in her back yard. Because of this... When hubby aint home I have guns strategicly placed loaded throughout the house and out of sight so i can be prepared no matter what room i'm in.
I would NOT recommend this pistol to a new shooter, or any other tiny handgun. The recoil on these is brutal on your hands and will create a timid shooter that flinches. I am a very experienced shooter and these things make ME flinch - this would be the last thing I'd want as a home-defense weapon, because there's NO WAY I'd ever practice with it enough for it to become second nature.
I shoot A LOT, both for just pure practice and I also hunt. I've attended several tactical day classes. If I had to pick ANY pistol to protect myself with in ANY situation - I'd choose a .40 or .45 original frame Glock. The grip area is big enough to offer control, the recoil is NOWHERE near as powerful as the previously shown small pistols, and you don't have to "baby" them. I carry one with me out and about on the ranch doing work - it has been dropped a bazillion times, gotten rained on, had dust in every nook and cranny and it has fired EVERY TIME I pull the trigger. They are super user friendly, have an easy to work safety, the slide isn't a bear to pull back. Also, no matter what you get, replace the factory sights with glow-in-the-dark night sights.
Also, I'd load it with something good. Google "man stopping rounds"
As far as shotguns, no matter what you get - PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE - they look easy in the movies, but it takes more strength than most people realize to pump one correctly - especially since you work that with your non-dominant hand.
I have dogs, three border collies - and my fat fluffy one is the MEANEST dog I've ever owned. She's not much for presence, like a German Shepherd or Doberman, but she will bite anything/anyone that she perceives as a threat - no questions asked. I don't know that I'd trust a lab to do anything but bark and lick, but it just depends on the dog, and probably how much it has been socialized to other people. Our three dogs are OUR dogs: they don't listen to anybody but our family, they don't play with anybody but our family, nothing. They are our stock dogs, immaculately trained, and loyal to a fault. I'd trust any three of them to risk their life for me and my family.
Good luck, and toughen up :) |
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Accident Prone
Posts: 22277
Location: 100 miles from Nowhere, AR | svincent - 2014-04-22 3:18 PM Kgirl - 2014-04-22 1:36 PM I agree with everybody else on here....
Gun and dog...
I have a black lab mix and he die to protect me. My hubby also taught me to shoot. I had a few guns before i finally got one i love. it is a smith and wesson revolver. If you are not used to guns i recommend a revovler cuz it wont jam like any of my pistols did. And they are super easy to use.
We live near a truck stop in no mans land and one night the neighbor called me saying she saw a man in her back yard. Because of this... When hubby aint home I have guns strategicly placed loaded throughout the house and out of sight so i can be prepared no matter what room i'm in.
I would NOT recommend this pistol to a new shooter, or any other tiny handgun. The recoil on these is brutal on your hands and will create a timid shooter that flinches. I am a very experienced shooter and these things make ME flinch - this would be the last thing I'd want as a home-defense weapon, because there's NO WAY I'd ever practice with it enough for it to become second nature. I shoot A LOT, both for just pure practice and I also hunt. I've attended several tactical day classes. If I had to pick ANY pistol to protect myself with in ANY situation - I'd choose a .40 or .45 original frame Glock. The grip area is big enough to offer control, the recoil is NOWHERE near as powerful as the previously shown small pistols, and you don't have to "baby" them. I carry one with me out and about on the ranch doing work - it has been dropped a bazillion times, gotten rained on, had dust in every nook and cranny and it has fired EVERY TIME I pull the trigger. They are super user friendly, have an easy to work safety, the slide isn't a bear to pull back. Also, no matter what you get, replace the factory sights with glow-in-the-dark night sights. Also, I'd load it with something good. Google "man stopping rounds" As far as shotguns, no matter what you get - PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE - they look easy in the movies, but it takes more strength than most people realize to pump one correctly - especially since you work that with your non-dominant hand. I have dogs, three border collies - and my fat fluffy one is the MEANEST dog I've ever owned. She's not much for presence, like a German Shepherd or Doberman, but she will bite anything/anyone that she perceives as a threat - no questions asked. I don't know that I'd trust a lab to do anything but bark and lick, but it just depends on the dog, and probably how much it has been socialized to other people. Our three dogs are OUR dogs: they don't listen to anybody but our family, they don't play with anybody but our family, nothing. They are our stock dogs, immaculately trained, and loyal to a fault. I'd trust any three of them to risk their life for me and my family. Good luck, and toughen up : )
I agree about that gun. I've shot large revolvers that were easy, but my S&W titanium .38 revolver is BRUTAL. I keep it in my truck and will shoot it if I have to, but even with a glove it will bust my hand open. And don't ask about the first time I shot a 12 gauge...my husband is still laughing.  |
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The Resident Destroyer of Liberal Logic
Location: PNW | Three 4 Luck - 2014-04-22 4:11 PM
svincent - 2014-04-22 3:18 PM Kgirl - 2014-04-22 1:36 PM I agree with everybody else on here....
Gun and dog...
I have a black lab mix and he die to protect me. My hubby also taught me to shoot. I had a few guns before i finally got one i love. it is a smith and wesson revolver. If you are not used to guns i recommend a revovler cuz it wont jam like any of my pistols did. And they are super easy to use.
We live near a truck stop in no mans land and one night the neighbor called me saying she saw a man in her back yard. Because of this... When hubby aint home I have guns strategicly placed loaded throughout the house and out of sight so i can be prepared no matter what room i'm in.
I would NOT recommend this pistol to a new shooter, or any other tiny handgun. The recoil on these is brutal on your hands and will create a timid shooter that flinches. I am a very experienced shooter and these things make ME flinch - this would be the last thing I'd want as a home-defense weapon, because there's NO WAY I'd ever practice with it enough for it to become second nature. I shoot A LOT, both for just pure practice and I also hunt. I've attended several tactical day classes. If I had to pick ANY pistol to protect myself with in ANY situation - I'd choose a .40 or .45 original frame Glock. The grip area is big enough to offer control, the recoil is NOWHERE near as powerful as the previously shown small pistols, and you don't have to "baby" them. I carry one with me out and about on the ranch doing work - it has been dropped a bazillion times, gotten rained on, had dust in every nook and cranny and it has fired EVERY TIME I pull the trigger. They are super user friendly, have an easy to work safety, the slide isn't a bear to pull back. Also, no matter what you get, replace the factory sights with glow-in-the-dark night sights. Also, I'd load it with something good. Google "man stopping rounds" As far as shotguns, no matter what you get - PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE - they look easy in the movies, but it takes more strength than most people realize to pump one correctly - especially since you work that with your non-dominant hand. I have dogs, three border collies - and my fat fluffy one is the MEANEST dog I've ever owned. She's not much for presence, like a German Shepherd or Doberman, but she will bite anything/anyone that she perceives as a threat - no questions asked. I don't know that I'd trust a lab to do anything but bark and lick, but it just depends on the dog, and probably how much it has been socialized to other people. Our three dogs are OUR dogs: they don't listen to anybody but our family, they don't play with anybody but our family, nothing. They are our stock dogs, immaculately trained, and loyal to a fault. I'd trust any three of them to risk their life for me and my family. Good luck, and toughen up : )
They are MISERABLE to shoot. I would shoot one IF I HAD TO... Like, if there were no rocks to throw...
And I don't know a single person who actually PRACTICES with one - because they are so miserable. Everybody I know who owns one are very experienced marksman and could effectively use one without practicing with it - and they all agree that they definitely aren't going to shoot it more times than ABSOLUTELY necessary - so, once. Lol |
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | SO told me the smaller the gun the worse it is usually is to shoot. I was wanting one of the small cute little purple ones...don't even know what it is lol |
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The Resident Destroyer of Liberal Logic
Location: PNW | lexyy12 - 2014-04-22 4:30 PM
SO told me the smaller the gun the worse it is usually is to shoot. I was wanting one of the small cute little purple ones...don't even know what it is lol
Guns aren't supposed to be cute. Guns are powerful, lethal tools of protection. Just like with my horses - I could give a flying rip what a piece of tack looks like - it just needs to do its job. But if you really want to girly-it-up a bit, you can buy after market grips in different colors - for pretty much any pistol. I know Hogue makes some for almost all Glock frames and I THINK for most 1911s.
Your SO is generally correct about the size of the pistol frame. But don't go buy a SW 500 - it's big, but it ain't friendly. Lol
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | Yeah but me knowing nothing thought that cute little purple thing was nicer than some of the ones he has...he said no lol |
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The Resident Destroyer of Liberal Logic
Location: PNW | lexyy12 - 2014-04-22 4:47 PM
Yeah but me knowing nothing thought that cute little purple thing was nicer than some of the ones he has...he said no lol
Yea, generally "cute" guns = crap
I shake my head EVERYTIME I see somebody proudly posting pictures of their new pink/camo gun... |
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 Chicken Chick
Posts: 3562
Location: Texas | Southtxponygirl - 2014-04-22 10:36 AM The best ever watch dogs I have had are my Heelers, they are very territorial and become very attached to their owners. When someone would come up in the yard and my dogs did not know them they would always stand between me the stranger, and you did not mess with my kids, love these dogs.
I do NOT like heelers, but if I were ever living alone or home alone alot and scared... I would get a heeler lol. The main reason why I don't like them is because I haven't met one yet that hasn't tried to bite someone, sometimes though that wouldn't be a bad thing.
Even though hubby is here every night we each have a gun on our sides of the bed, shot gun in the corner, and a gun in the car. The Doberman and Boxer sleep right inside the bedroom door, and if you don't look closely when you walk in the room you will trip over them. I don't think either one of them would be good for anything other then scaring someone off because of their looks and noise making. Their job is to give me time to get to the gun before they wuss out lol. |
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | I have one dog that doesn't like strange people...he is small but I bet he would scare them off and would bite if someone tried to come in unwelcome. Sometimes if someone he doesn't know kneels down to pet him he will growl. The other 2 are just noisey but we are most likely getting a German shepherd. SO grew up with them. |
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 Dancing in my Mind
Posts: 3062
Location: Eastern OH but my heart is in WV | I have a larger dog' that clearly has Aussie in him' and he is the most protective dog I have ever owned. Almost to over protective. He is great with the family but very protective of the yard and house. Our beagle is small but very protective of her family also. She has a wonderful 6th sense about things/people and if her hair goes upright, I get worried. Also keep a loaded gun handy, but I pray I never have to use it.
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| Wow! I'm suprised to see the reaction to my gun! I love this gun way better than the 10 others I had owned and tried before. My pistols I had would either jam or I had too much arthritis in my hands to work the slide or it would bite ya! I've only been around guns the last few years so I would not consider myself an expert. I had two of my friends also go out and buy this same gun after shooting mine but I guess to each their own! |
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 Expert
Posts: 1440
Location: Texas | Definaty guns and dogs! I am by myself the majority of the time as my husband works out of state. We have a Glock 40 which is really easy to shoot and a Bersa 380 which is an AmAzing little gun. It is super easy to shoot an is economical. I keep them on my nightstand when he is gone. I also have a shotgun right next to the bed. I have 7 dogs lol. Some are just little noise makes (2 doxies) and a LARGE chocolate lab who looks intimidating and will bark and raise her hair is you come up and she don't know you. I don't. Ow if she would actually do anything if push came to shove but she looks mean! I have a healer, an Aussie,a corgi , and a mutt who are good noise makers out side. The mutt is pretty new to us but I think in time he will get more protective. He is grateful for being rescued from death row and seems to be very territorial of our place and gets pretty upset if stranger come up the drive. Honestly the most protective dog was a mutt named Suzy who I rescued from the pound. She would sleep in myths doorway to my bedroom and not let anyone in unless I told her it was ok. She had to be put to sleep after a coyote attack. She always ran coyotes off from around the house. RIP Suzy. Sorry got a little off track there, she was just the best dog I had ever had the please of having in my life. |
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 742
| Was the house you're moving into robbed or burglerized? I guess I should ask, were the people at home when this happened? If they weren't there did they have a dog(s) in the house? |
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Expert
Posts: 2276
Location: ohio-in my own little world with pretty ponies :) | They were not home. Didn't have a dog but since has gotten some sort of boxer/ mix type young dog. |
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 Extreme Veteran
Posts: 336
Location: Missouri | I've debated long and hard about posting, but finally decided to talk to you as if I really know you. You seem like a very VERY sweet young lady, and I love reading your posts on horses and you life. Everything I'm going to say is said because I care, and don't want to see you get yourself in a pickle. By far the best defense is SELF CONFIDENCE. Knowing you can handle yourself, projecting that image, all is a great edge in self protection. Without self confidence and a strong attitude, both guns and dogs can give you more trouble than help.
First, and the ONLY reason I'm opening my mouth at all.... A. GUN. IS. NOT. CUTE. Period. Sorry but I about had a stroke when I read that. Yes, I get having one you "like". I have shot since I could stand. My kids were both started on the same rifle I learned on by the time they were three. By the time they eight they could pick up, load properly, and shoot every rifle, shotgun, pistol in the house. They also have their own now. I am completely 100% confident in their shooting abilities, but more importantly, their maturity and safety awareness to properly handle any gun. They have hunted since before they were in kindergarten and made to gut and clean everything they killed. Walking up to that deer that a second ago was moving. Still warm, having to take their knife out - huge wake up call. Guns are only as safe or dangerous as the person holding it.
Since firearms are new to you, frankly you are probably more a danger WITH a gun than without. And plinking with your SO's really isn't enough - but it's a good start! IF you choose to get a gun - 1st get one that fits YOU. I would recommend a S&W .38 or .357 revolver simply because it is easier to load and no jamming for you to worry about. Think old fashioned police style - not a long barrel. And, if you had to use it, it's got knockdown. My S&W .357 is my go to fave. Next...practice. Practice. Practice. It needs to become a part of you. You should be able to load that sucker in the dark and one handed. Here's the hard part (and one reason I don't rely on anyone else) - many people, even "good" shots, when it comes to actually being forced to use one - committing to raising that gun and pointing it at someone - that's tougher than it sounds. If you pull it, be prepared to use it with lethal intent. No...oh gee, I hope this scares that bad guy away. Sure, hope it does, but don't count on it. I was taught, and my kids were taught - anything you aim at, assume you WILL be killing it. Sounds simple, but push come to shove it's not. Yes..I've had to raise mine - fortunately I didn't have to pull the trigger. Do you have it in you to pull that trigger?
A good dog is an excellent deterrent. BUT...having a truly "mean" dog is NOT the best choice. I love the way everyone is referring to theirs as protective - that's what you want. My Catahoula would without a doubt go the wall for me. He is NOT a "mean dog". Don't start none, won't be none type. Mess with me or my kids, and he!!'s a comin with him though. Any big dog outside that makes a lot of noise and is protective will be a good deterrent (especially if they "look" ferocious!). If you can get a protection trained dog, awesome, but a loved on mutt can be just as protective. Me, I want my dogs (I have my Cat, daughter has a Cat/Aussie cross, son has a lab, all of whom are extremely protective), to alert me and scare off anyone, protect if necessary, but I will be having a welcoming party for anyone that can get past them. Like someone else said though, my Cat is known throughout the county - most don't venture too near. BUT...again, you have to have self confidence to properly train and maintain control of many protective/aggressive dogs - you have to be the alpha!
I liked that you were advised to "toughen up" - excellent advice. Such an exciting time in your life!! So ya..suck it up Buttercup ;) - stay sweet, stay who you are, but if you project self confidence, be smart, be aware, work on that "hey I'm in charge of my life" attitude, you will be less likely to be messed with. True, random bad things happen. Often though, burglaries are not random. Lights, dogs, knowing the chick at that house can take care of herself - that will keep you from being an easy target. And one other thing...QUIT WORRYING SO DANG MUCH! Congratulations on your new home!!
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 Underestimated Underdog
Posts: 3971
Location: Minnesota | I have a chocolate lab and she's very protective, not very typical for a lab. She'll bark at any strange noise and has woken both my husband and myself up when we did have someone wander onto our property. My husband and I have both taught her well and she will protect us both. Were adding a heeler this fall for me to have a constant companion when my husband and dog go hunting(I go too but not all the time).
I agree with get a gun. I learned from a very young age and feel very fortunate that I know how to shoot all different kinds of guns. I prefer a revolver, I know it won't jam. I would familiarise youself with your states gun laws as well. Don't be scared, being able to protect yourself when you are alone is a great feeling. Get a bigger dog, cameras and a gun. |
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 Firecracker Dog Lover
Posts: 3175
| Three 4 Luck - 2014-04-22 2:11 PM svincent - 2014-04-22 3:18 PM Kgirl - 2014-04-22 1:36 PM I agree with everybody else on here....
Gun and dog...
I have a black lab mix and he die to protect me. My hubby also taught me to shoot. I had a few guns before i finally got one i love. it is a smith and wesson revolver. If you are not used to guns i recommend a revovler cuz it wont jam like any of my pistols did. And they are super easy to use.
We live near a truck stop in no mans land and one night the neighbor called me saying she saw a man in her back yard. Because of this... When hubby aint home I have guns strategicly placed loaded throughout the house and out of sight so i can be prepared no matter what room i'm in.
I would NOT recommend this pistol to a new shooter, or any other tiny handgun. The recoil on these is brutal on your hands and will create a timid shooter that flinches. I am a very experienced shooter and these things make ME flinch - this would be the last thing I'd want as a home-defense weapon, because there's NO WAY I'd ever practice with it enough for it to become second nature. I shoot A LOT, both for just pure practice and I also hunt. I've attended several tactical day classes. If I had to pick ANY pistol to protect myself with in ANY situation - I'd choose a .40 or .45 original frame Glock. The grip area is big enough to offer control, the recoil is NOWHERE near as powerful as the previously shown small pistols, and you don't have to "baby" them. I carry one with me out and about on the ranch doing work - it has been dropped a bazillion times, gotten rained on, had dust in every nook and cranny and it has fired EVERY TIME I pull the trigger. They are super user friendly, have an easy to work safety, the slide isn't a bear to pull back. Also, no matter what you get, replace the factory sights with glow-in-the-dark night sights. Also, I'd load it with something good. Google "man stopping rounds" As far as shotguns, no matter what you get - PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE - they look easy in the movies, but it takes more strength than most people realize to pump one correctly - especially since you work that with your non-dominant hand. I have dogs, three border collies - and my fat fluffy one is the MEANEST dog I've ever owned. She's not much for presence, like a German Shepherd or Doberman, but she will bite anything/anyone that she perceives as a threat - no questions asked. I don't know that I'd trust a lab to do anything but bark and lick, but it just depends on the dog, and probably how much it has been socialized to other people. Our three dogs are OUR dogs: they don't listen to anybody but our family, they don't play with anybody but our family, nothing. They are our stock dogs, immaculately trained, and loyal to a fault. I'd trust any three of them to risk their life for me and my family. Good luck, and toughen up : )
Now I have to ask about you shooting a 12 gauge for the first time. What kind of shell did your husband put in that thing? |
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Accident Prone
Posts: 22277
Location: 100 miles from Nowhere, AR | It was bird shot and I was trying to sting the neighbor dogs because I didn't want to kill them if I didn't have to. I knew it was going to kick and I braced against it instead of rolling with it. I almost ended up on my butt and pulled a muscle in my neck and shoulder so bad that I was useless for 3 days. He said "I thought you knew how to shoot a shotgun!" Um NO! I had never shot anything bigger than a .22 other than pistols, because I'm right handed/left eye dominant and was always afraid of breaking my nose. |
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| brlraceaddict - 2014-04-23 10:44 AM Three 4 Luck - 2014-04-22 2:11 PM svincent - 2014-04-22 3:18 PM Kgirl - 2014-04-22 1:36 PM I agree with everybody else on here....
Gun and dog...
I have a black lab mix and he die to protect me. My hubby also taught me to shoot. I had a few guns before i finally got one i love. it is a smith and wesson revolver. If you are not used to guns i recommend a revovler cuz it wont jam like any of my pistols did. And they are super easy to use.
We live near a truck stop in no mans land and one night the neighbor called me saying she saw a man in her back yard. Because of this... When hubby aint home I have guns strategicly placed loaded throughout the house and out of sight so i can be prepared no matter what room i'm in.
I would NOT recommend this pistol to a new shooter, or any other tiny handgun. The recoil on these is brutal on your hands and will create a timid shooter that flinches. I am a very experienced shooter and these things make ME flinch - this would be the last thing I'd want as a home-defense weapon, because there's NO WAY I'd ever practice with it enough for it to become second nature. I shoot A LOT, both for just pure practice and I also hunt. I've attended several tactical day classes. If I had to pick ANY pistol to protect myself with in ANY situation - I'd choose a .40 or .45 original frame Glock. The grip area is big enough to offer control, the recoil is NOWHERE near as powerful as the previously shown small pistols, and you don't have to "baby" them. I carry one with me out and about on the ranch doing work - it has been dropped a bazillion times, gotten rained on, had dust in every nook and cranny and it has fired EVERY TIME I pull the trigger. They are super user friendly, have an easy to work safety, the slide isn't a bear to pull back. Also, no matter what you get, replace the factory sights with glow-in-the-dark night sights. Also, I'd load it with something good. Google "man stopping rounds" As far as shotguns, no matter what you get - PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE - they look easy in the movies, but it takes more strength than most people realize to pump one correctly - especially since you work that with your non-dominant hand. I have dogs, three border collies - and my fat fluffy one is the MEANEST dog I've ever owned. She's not much for presence, like a German Shepherd or Doberman, but she will bite anything/anyone that she perceives as a threat - no questions asked. I don't know that I'd trust a lab to do anything but bark and lick, but it just depends on the dog, and probably how much it has been socialized to other people. Our three dogs are OUR dogs: they don't listen to anybody but our family, they don't play with anybody but our family, nothing. They are our stock dogs, immaculately trained, and loyal to a fault. I'd trust any three of them to risk their life for me and my family. Good luck, and toughen up : )
How does a revolver bust your hand open? never had that happen! |
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Accident Prone
Posts: 22277
Location: 100 miles from Nowhere, AR | The part of my hand between thumb and index finger, base of the thumb actually where there is a bone that sort of sticks up. It would kick so hard that I would bruise and then bleed if I kept shooting. And that was wearing gloves. |
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Industrial Srength Barrel Racer
Posts: 7268
| lexyy12 - 2014-04-22 10:08 AM Are labs good at protecting or no?
Mine is VERY good at protection - I was somewhat shocked! He had always acted like a big goof until I had a guy out installing dish network and that dog about had a come apart - and he still does now when ANYBODY pulls in the drive. |
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| Three 4 Luck - 2014-04-23 11:06 AM The part of my hand between thumb and index finger, base of the thumb actually where there is a bone that sort of sticks up. It would kick so hard that I would bruise and then bleed if I kept shooting. And that was wearing gloves.
Wow!! my 38 special revolver dont kick anything like that! now i've had the pistols that have caught me in the meaty area between the thumb and index finger and "bite" me when they are doing the sliding motion. |
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Accident Prone
Posts: 22277
Location: 100 miles from Nowhere, AR | Kgirl - 2014-04-23 11:10 AM Three 4 Luck - 2014-04-23 11:06 AM The part of my hand between thumb and index finger, base of the thumb actually where there is a bone that sort of sticks up. It would kick so hard that I would bruise and then bleed if I kept shooting. And that was wearing gloves. Wow!! my 38 special revolver dont kick anything like that! now i've had the pistols that have caught me in the meaty area between the thumb and index finger and "bite" me when they are doing the sliding motion.
It's titanium, so extremely light, hence the kick. I've never had another one hurt me like that. |
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 On the Countdown
Posts: 2934
Location: Texas | SG. - 2014-04-22 10:33 AM Honestly, You need to go to a shooting range and take some courses. One rule of thumb, is if you pull your gun, You have better be prepared to use it. Don't ever point a gun and then back down or hesitate.
Not to hurt your feelings, but you need to toughen up emotionally. This is why I think all children when they graduate high school, need to leave the nest and learn to live on their own. No BoyFriend no Girlfriend. Learn to be alone. You would be amazed at what this will teach you. You need to learn some independence and gain some self confidence
I live by myself. I need both of what is being discussed. I think I have the dog issue covered. Like SG said living by yourself teaches you ALOT and how to handle alot. I don't mind staying by myself one bit. |
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 I Don't Brag
Posts: 6960
| I LOVE my Heelers and have pretty much always had at least two around since we moved here 28 years ago. Hubby is gone as an OTR and I am as blind as a bat without my contacts in (and have slept with the extended wear ones for many, many years because of this). My Heelers go with me everywhere and I do NOT discourage the idea that they are mean. I LIKE it when people are afraid to get out of their car! I do not tell them at the two I have now are very friendly......at least when I am present. Now let someone walk up and knock on the sliding glass door and they will be met with teeth at face level on the other side of the glass. I spend time socializing mine, but they have all been protective, especially when they think I am not in control and need to be protected. That being said, they are not for everyone....you must be able to be in control or they WILL be.
As far as guns, I had ZERO experience but decided to get myself one after an extremely violent home invasion in the next county, combined with the coyotes coming in to my dry lot WHILE I was feeding. I bought myself a .22 LR pistol. Everyone told me that the ammo for these was cheap and easy to get.......NOT! I wanted to be able to practice without breaking the bank! Also no one told me that pistols can be very picky about ammo....mine is VERY picky and jams up with most kinds. I am going to have to buy a revolver (which is what I wanted in the first place, but got talked out of) just to use the ammo that won't work in my gun. I would like to get maybe a 9mm with a laser on it so I don't have to worry so much about aiming when roused out of a deep sleep or terrified out of my mind. I agree with those who say that if you are not prepared to kill in self defense, a gun is not a good idea. I have said for years that they could take my gun away from me and use it on me, but they can't turn my dogs on me.
We have outside lights that are all on a switch. I like it dark and think that they make it easier for thieves to see. Remote switches in the house would be a great idea. I think that ones on motion detectors would scare the crap out of me every time some animal set it off. We are wanting to put a detector on the driveway with an alert that sounds to let us know that someone have come up the driveway. Cameras might help catch a thief, but unless they know they are there will not deter them.
If I had to pick one thing, it would be dogs. Even a non-threatening one will let you know that something is amiss...like someone hiding in your closet when you get home (always let your dogs on the house BEFORE you enter when arriving home, by the way).
I think the Castle Law should be extended to cover dogs and if someone gets bit while protecting self, home or property, they should exempt from prosecution and lawsuits. That is how it would be in MY world.
Stay aware at all times and be safe!
Edited by rodeoveteran 2014-04-23 11:30 AM
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A Somebody to Everybody
Posts: 41354
Location: Under The Big Sky Of Texas | I still say a good dog, you cant beat the protection you can get from one, at home are on the road with one. I did alot of traveling with my Heeler and I felt so safe with her and she was alot of company, dang I miss my Heidi, I can still see her laying in the seat next to me while driving down the road, lost her about 12 years ago and the best dog I ever had. 
Edited by Southtxponygirl 2014-04-23 11:30 AM
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Rad Dork
Posts: 5218
Location: Oklahoma | I can't post any new suggestions, but my husband is out of town a lot and here is what I have/do.
Security cameras (they can detect motion and there will be a red light on the screen if there is "new" movement, even in pitch black). I am thinking about buying more and placing them at different areas of the house. They are mostly just to see who is pulling down our drive since there are some blind spots to keep us from being able to see.
Outside lights. My husbands shop has some outside lights on them, those help to illuminate areas NEAR the house. We have lights going around the front and back of the house. That makes me feel better and I sleep with all of them on. My husband likes more darkness so our end of the house is off when he's home, but on when it's just me.
Inside lights. The master bedroom in our house is completely interior, so I have a lamp that stays on when I'm by myself, it also helps illuminate the hallway. I have lamps on a buffet in the kitchen (near the security camera viewing screen), one in the foyer by the fron door, one in the living room and outlet plug ins placed in hallways and bedrooms that come on when there is darkness.
Outside dog(s). I've always been around labs, and they're pretty good watchdogs. Very few have been good guarddogs, but they usually can hear and alert you. The chocolate lab that I have now is out of a black lab that you wouldn't get out of the vehicle with unless his owners were nearby. Those traits didn't pass off to mine and he's big a teddy bear, but he can still bark at night if he hears something. He also doesn't stray very far from my bedroom/patio door at night. (kind of a negative if he's just barking at deer and coons! lol)
Inside dog. I have a dachshund that is pretty good about letting me know if someone is here during the day. Some nights she can wake up, but some nights she's too busy snoring under the covers, but it still helps me just knowing that she's there by me. An inside dog will be the one to alert you if, heaven forbid, someone kills your outdoor dog first and doesn't manage to break in just yet.
Gun. I keep a pistol in my nightstand (just be VERY VERY VERY careful if you ever have kids around your house. Don't forget about it being there) and a large flashlight just in case I need extra light or a hard object for a blunt force to someone's head.
Good luck! It's something that gets easier as you go. I lived with my parents, moved off to college and either lived in a dorm and never felt scared or lived in an apartment with roommates or neighbors nearby. I've spent more time alone now that I'm married than I have ever had to before! lol |
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 Semper Fi
Location: North Texas | Kgirl - 2014-04-22 8:33 PM
Wow! I'm suprised to see the reaction to my gun! I love this gun way better than the 10 others I had owned and tried before. My pistols I had would either jam or I had too much arthritis in my hands to work the slide or it would bite ya! I've only been around guns the last few years so I would not consider myself an expert. I had two of my friends also go out and buy this same gun after shooting mine but I guess to each their own!
But how many rounds a week do You and Your Friends practice w/ that S&W Airweight? And I agree with the others who claim the smaller frame pistols are hard on the hands. I am a man with rather thick hands and I detest shooting those small revolvers or semi autos for that matter. Both of em beat the snot out of my hand and wrist.
These smaller frame 'concealable' pistols are NOT designed to shoot day in day out, but as 'Defensive Carry Weapons' hence their Concealablity.
Edited by foundation horse 2014-04-23 1:32 PM
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 Elite Veteran
Posts: 1119
| A few years ago, our house was robbed while we were at work, and my husband often works over night, so I know the feeling. We had 3 dogs at the time, but all 3 are kept in outside kennels while we are not home so it wasn't much of a deterrent. At night I have a lab/rot that is outside (free), he's not much of a threat to a stranger but he's large and he's a jumper, so he definitely couldn't be ignored. We also have a lab outside (but in a kennel) that has a different bark if there is something in our yard that shouldn't be. During the day, I leave my border collie outside and she stays on the porch the entire day right by the door. She would probably let someone show someone where everything was in our house, but I like knowing that she is there while I'm gone. At night, I am almost positive she would protect me. In fact, she once bit my husband once when he play tackled me.
As far as guns, I am waaaay more comfortable with a shotgun and love my youth model Remington 870. It fits me great (I'm about 5'4", so it's not too big), and it's a pump. You will have more room for error shooting a shotgun than a handgun, which could be helpful if you were really in that situation. I grew up hunting and shooting trap and skeet with my dad, so shotguns are just more second nature to me than a handgun. We do keep a 9mm next to the bed though with the "home protection" rounds in it. It's not my first choice to grab, but I practice with it a lot and I like knowing that it's there.
I do agree that just having more confidence would be helpful. After a week or so of being home at night I'm sure you will be fine. Put a security sign at the end of your driveway, trust your dogs, and trust yourself. Not much else you can do!
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