What is what to do when a dog attacks your dog?

If your dog is attacked by another dog, it's a frightening situation. Here's what you should do:

• Stay Calm: This is crucial, even though it's difficult. Your dog will pick up on your panic, potentially escalating the situation.

• Assess the Situation: Quickly determine the severity of the attack. Is it a brief scuffle or a full-blown, locked-jaw fight? This will influence your next steps.

• Separate the Dogs (If Possible and Safe): This is the most important step, but it must be done carefully to avoid injury to yourself. Here are some tactics:

  • Loud Noise: A sudden, loud noise like yelling "NO!", blowing a whistle, or banging objects together might startle the dogs and break their focus.
  • Water: Throwing water (a bucket, hose, or even a water bottle) can sometimes distract them.
  • Physical Barrier: If possible, use an object like a large board, trash can lid, or even a jacket to create a barrier between the dogs.
  • Leg Grab: As a last resort, and only if you are confident and physically capable, you can attempt to grab the attacking dog's rear legs and pull it backwards. Be extremely cautious, as the dog may redirect its aggression towards you. Only attempt this if you are sure of yourself. Never grab the collar or head of an attacking dog!

• Avoid Reaching In: Do not put your hands or any part of your body between the fighting dogs. This is the most common way people get bitten.

• Check Your Dog for Injuries: Once the dogs are separated, immediately check your dog for any injuries, even if they seem minor. Internal injuries can be serious, and small puncture wounds can easily become infected.

• Seek Veterinary Care: Take your dog to the veterinarian immediately, even if you don't see any obvious injuries. A vet can assess for internal injuries, administer pain medication, and provide antibiotics to prevent infection.

• Report the Incident: Report the dog attack to your local animal control or police department. This is important for documentation purposes and to help prevent future incidents, especially if the attacking dog has a history of aggression.

• Gather Information: If possible, get the owner's information (name, address, phone number, and dog's vaccination records). This will be helpful for insurance purposes and for verifying the dog's rabies vaccination status.

• Legal Considerations: Understand your rights and responsibilities. Depending on your location, the attacking dog's owner may be liable for your dog's medical expenses and other damages. Document everything including medical bills, photos, and communication with the other owner. Consider speaking with an animal law attorney.

Here are some links that may be helpful:

• Dog Attacks: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Dog%20Attacks
• Veterinary%20Care: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Veterinary%20Care
• Animal%20Control: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Animal%20Control
• Legal%20Rights: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Legal%20Rights