What to Do If Your Dog Is Being Attacked

Most dogs, especially those who were raised in a loving family, will rarely act aggressively towards humans and other dogs. If not provoked, even less-socialized dogs won’t necessarily go out of their way to attack others. However, these types of emergencies still happen.

Why Dogs Attack Other Dogs and Humans

It is important to keep in mind that dogs, like humans, are social beings. They don’t really go around specifically looking for a fight. That doesn’t mean that they won’t act aggressively if they feel that they don’t have another choice, though. This happens when they feel cornered or get a sudden fright.

There are also certain dog breeds that have a stronger “prey drive”. It’s an instinct to chase and bite weaker animals (such as smaller pets and livestock). Thus, it is always a good idea to keep your dog on a leash when you expect to be around farm animals. Getting a farm animal injured or worse, killed, can be a serious crime that can put you and your pet in trouble if you’re not careful.

Finally, it is also possible for a dog to attack if it’s not in the proper state of mind. Fortunately, there are certain ways to check your dog’s mental health. You can seek advice from your vet as well.

What to Do if Your Dog Is Attacked in Public

For now, though, let’s talk about the steps that you can do if your dog is attacked in public. Here they are:

Know the Signs of a Dog Ready to Attack

It is very rare for a dog to suddenly bite without warning. Some of us simply fail to recognize the warning signs of potential aggression. Some red flags include growling, baring teeth, and lunging.

Most of the time, the best way to deal with it is to simply walk away calmly but quickly instead of approaching the dog further and actively trying to do something about it.

Always Have a Dog Whistle

It is also a good idea to always have a dog whistle, especially if you’re bringing your dog to an area where there might be other dogs.

Pick Up Your Dog and Run To a Safe Area

If you still have a safe distance between you and the attacking dog, then it might be possible to pick up your dog and run to a safer area instead. You can also put a visual barrier between you and the aggressive creature, such as a closed gate or a big umbrella.

Contact Your Council

If your dog or a human has been injured due to the attack, then it’s best to report the incident to the police or your local council’s dog warden. This will inform them that a dangerous creature is on the loose and can prevent another incident from happening.

Recuperating After a Dog Attack

We understand how stressful it is to survive any dog attack. Even without any serious injury, the shock and trauma can still be difficult to heal. Some even find their lives permanently changed. The aftermath can include a sudden fear of animals, nightmares, and even changes in your personality.

If you feel that someone should be held accountable for the attack, then we suggest scheduling a consultation with a dog bite lawyer right away to discuss your options.

Take Your Dog to the Nearest Veterinarian Immediately

You’re not the only one who’s going to go through a rough time after the attack. Your dog can potentially undergo the same trauma as well. Hence, take your dog to the nearest vet as soon as possible.

What to Do if Your Dog Attacks Other Dogs and Humans?

The first thing that you should do is to stay calm and try to make your dog feel more comfortable and less agitated. If the attack has yet to happen, then you can also try to lead your dog away, preferably where they won’t see the other dog or human aggressor anymore.

If the attack is already happening, then you can try to distract your dog from a distance. Don’t attempt to approach lest risk getting bitten yourself.

Lastly, if it’s not the first time that you have observed your dog behaving this way, then it’s ideal to consult with your vet if there’s a reason behind this aggression. For instance, there are certain dogs that have dog food aggression一a hostile behavior when they’re being too protective of their food.

What to Do if You’re Bitten by a Dog?

Wash your wound and get it checked immediately after. We also recommend taking pictures of your injuries. It will come in handy when you’re talking to the dog’s owner and to the proper authorities.

More Tips on How to Avoid Dog Attacks

In the end, the best way is to prevent these attacks from happening. Here are a few more tips:

• Keep your dog on a leash when going to unfamiliar places.
• Don’t allow your dog to approach an unfamiliar dog or human.
• Lastly, always keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort, fear, and aggression.

With these tips in mind, we’re confident that you will be able to keep you and your dog safe from such attacks. Good luck!