I had an unfortunate accident that would have never happened if someone had been responsible and obeyed the law.  

I was riding down Erskine Creek Road on a mountain bike only a few minutes from the end of my ride.  (A) dog darted across my side of the road.  I had no time to react and hit the dog broadside. Fortunately I was wearing a helmet or I am sure I would have been killed. Instead, I suffered a double concussion and had to be transported by ambulance and helicopter to the Kern Medical Center Trauma Unit.  

I have nothing but praise for the law enforcement officers, the fire department, the ambulance EMT's, the emergency helicopter crew and the excellent care I received at KMC.  I also owe my life to my son-in-law who was riding with me. His quick thinking and strength enabled him to pull me off the roadway as a pickup ran right over the spot where I had been lying.

I still suffer memory lapses and lost almost a month of work with the loving church that lets me serve as their pastor.  My wife has gone through a great deal of anguish in caring for me and having to do almost everything during my incapacitation.  This has caused a hardship on her, the church and my many friends who have filled in for me during my recovery.  It has also cost thousands of dollars in medical and other expenses.

All of this was absolutely unnecessary.  None of us can turn back the clock, but we can do our part to help prevent things like this from happening.  I hold no animosity toward the owner of the dog and I hope the dog is okay.  But had that dog been properly restrained as the law demands, this accident would never have happened.  So, if you are one of those pet owners who likes to let your pet run free, please reconsider doing that.  Also, if you can no longer care for your pet, find it a new home or turn it over to animal control.  Please do not take it to a strange place and let it go!  Do it for the good and safety of your pet and the protection of others who might be harmed by the actions of your unattended pet.
 
Pastor C. Preston North
Lake Isabella