From comments: My theory is it’s ‘diabolical.’ The dog is a ‘mans best friend.’ It protects and gives unconditional love. The dog offers solace in a persons darkest hour especially when thinking of suicide and gives affection for the elderly and the very young. What’s the best way to keep people from finding comfort, cheer & support? Kill one of their family members without consequences. A subtle way of breaking down the family or individual person. Another thing, if you’re willing to kill a family pet, the next transition is a ‘faceless’ person. The mantra: “He lunged at me!” MORE