We, the undersigned, are demanding immediate action from Atlantic County authorities and New Jersey lawmakers in the wake of a violent and preventable dog attack in Egg Harbor Township, which left a family dog dead and a child injured. On July 29th, 2025, a 140-pound Anatolian Shepherd livestock guardian dog named Mitra, owned by Cookie Till, the owner of A Meaningful Purpose – Reed’s Farm, was brought into a residential neighborhood by her co-owner and handler, Lenny, a 70-year-old man. Despite the dog’s working breed status and known history of aggression—including previous attacks on chickens—Mitra was walked without a muzzle or adequate restraint. The dog broke free, completely unprovoked, violently mauled and killed the family’s beloved dog Ameechi, who had been a part of their lives for 9 years. This traumatic event unfolded directly in front of the family’s young son, who was also bitten while trying to save Ameechi’s life during the attack. The injuries were severe—Ameechi’s organs were exposed, and despite emergency vet efforts, he could not be saved. This was not an accident. It was a failure of judgment, a failure of protection, and a failure of law. This family is not alone. In a separate, unrelated case in Ventnor, NJ, another local family lost their two Pomeranians after a neighbor’s large breed dog attacked and killed them. Despite the heartbreaking loss, no legal consequences followed. These events, while different, share a disturbing truth: dangerous dogs are being brought into neighborhoods without safeguards, and when tragedy strikes, families are left to pick up the pieces with no justice, no accountability, and no systemic change. We demand: Criminal accountability for negligent dog owners and handlers whose decisions lead to injury, death, or endangerment of others. Stricter local and state laws regulating the movement and control of high-risk dogs with a history of aggression in public or residential areas.
Mandatory use of muzzles, leashes, and training protocols for known-risk dogs when outside their designated environment.
Legal enforcement of liability when animals with known aggressive tendencies are allowed to roam or enter public spaces without proper precautions.
Protective action from animal control, law enforcement, and local governments when animals pose a threat to pets and children in our communities.
Support and legal recourse for families who have suffered due to dog attacks—not just grief, but justice. This petition is not just about one family’s pain. It’s about all of us. It’s about demanding protection for our children, our pets, and our neighborhoods. It’s about stopping the cycle of inaction and silence when lives are permanently altered. We call on Atlantic County officials, the New Jersey State Legislature, and Governor Phil Murphy to hear our voices and act. Don’t let another child witness their dog being mauled. Don’t let another family be ignored. Sign and share this petition if you believe in justice, accountability, and the right to feel safe in your own neighborhood.