@Polymerous ...
I agree that it is not wise to issue any kind of invitation to deer.
I chase them off whenever I happen to see them resting under the shade of my maple tree. Good grief, there is a park across the road full of trees that will provide all of the shade they want. Everything out in front of the house is well fenced, so I am not worried about any damage they might do. I just want them to think of my property as hostile territory.
Up here, having a dog that chases deer is illegal. Back in the day, ranchers got an ordinance passed to make it illegal because they believed that once a dog started chasing deer, it wouldn't be long before the dog started chasing livestock. Actually, there is some truth to that. Last week there was an article in the paper about dogs chasing a mule to death.
Lyn
