Yup a person is far more important than property. When my dogs start making noise I do jump up and go check but I don't grab a gun. A gun can make a bad situation get worse real fast. I would not grab a bat either. If they are trying to take a dog they will have to deal with me. A deer rifle would be my last choice. I have had my share of problems and can say that any weapon makes things much more tense. Now if I see a weapon then I might have one real fast. But I have Deputies stop right by my house to do reports or whatever they do in their car all the time. If you stop by they will get your plate. If they don't know you they will chat with you. I know the deputies and they know me. Unless I do something real stupid I will not be in trouble. Plus I know the DPS around here too. That is the best protection to have. My dogs are part of my family and people around me know it.
But deadly force to protect property? Nope. But that does not mean I will not use force necessary to detain you until law enforcement gets here.
I do have things in place to stop thieves
