You don't get it.
It's very apparent that they don't get it... As responsible gun owners, we all should be very aware of the consequences of our actions when dealing with firearms. I'm very aware of what would happen if I had to defend my family. Jail or not, if I'm in a position where I can either protect my family or let that family member potentially die, I'm going to chose to fight.
Am I defending the guy in the article? NO. I'm simply stating what "I" would do if I was confronted with someone (ANYONE) pointing a weapon at my dog. Just because it may happen to be a police officer doesn't change anything for me. A police officer is no better or worse than any one of us, we are all equals and I will respect anyone who respects me and mine. If you don't, then that's unfortunate.
As I said earlier, I'm very responsible with my dogs and I wouldn't put them in a position to defend me or my property to begin with. I'll likely never have to "have fun spending time in jail" because I don't go looking for trouble... To say my beliefs will undoubtedly lead to any of this happening to me is just silly.