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Hi Neighbors, Friends & Dog Lovers-On Saturday, July 14th at around 6p, my friend, my 5 year old Aussie, Indy, and myself were walking down Fern Street (30th) a couple blocks south of Target when an un-leashed dog ran off its property towards us and grabbed hold of Indy's side (unprovoked). Indy of course had her harness and leash on.
Indy is an incredibly friendly dog and loves all dog friends. I've lived in SP for a couple of years now, and i'm always out and about with her. Chances are if you have a friendly dog (or are just a dog lover in general) we have said hi to each other!
Indy was taken to the VCA Emergency Clinic and was hospitalized overnight for a massive, foot-long laceration to her right side. It is absolutely shocking that dog was able to do this kind of damage!
Long story short, the bulldog was out in the unfenced yard and was being monitored by the dog-owners brother. Although I understand this does not justify this scenario, the brother just moved here from country-living, so the culture with dogs is different there (unleashed is kind of the norm). The dog does have a history of "being territorial" but this is the first physical offense, and seemed to be protecting it's home- we were walking on the public sidewalk in front of property.
She is on a cocktail of medications and is doing ok considering, but we aren't out of the woods yet. She still has to get her drainage tube and sutures out, and has several follow-up visits scheduled. She also requires 24-hour care until she's healed.
It's just an incredibly sad situation for all- Indy, me, the other dog owner, and all who witnessed the horrific ordeal.
Luckily, the owner of the dog is very willing to help cover vet bills and assist in any way he can. That being said, this is financially devastating for both parties. I have no interest in taking legal action, because the owner has been very receptive and apologetic, and understands the gravity of the situation. I realize not everyone in these situations are lucky enough to have the "responsible party" take full financial responsibility, so I want to see if there is anyone to assist in Indy's recovery.
Please know, he has already taken measures to ensure this does not happen again with his dog, and the Humane Society has made contact with him (a report was filed). If there is anyone who can help with this, we would ALL be eternally grateful! Thank you for taking the time to read this. Once we are out and about again, please feel free to say "hi!"