Thanks so much to everyone for understanding! I was (and still am) very shook up, and this board has allowed me to vent! I am so glad to be in the company of fellow responsible dog owners!
P.S. I read that "trust" piece before - our local pet obedience school prints it in the front of their training booklet. I couldn't agree more with the message! Yes, accidents happen, like Paula slipping out of her collar, and Bella sneaking out the door, but why would anyone tempt fate by allowing their dog off leash ON PURPOSE????