I don't have it in me to shoot a dog. As sad as it is to say, I value a dog more than the average person. Might just be reflective of who I've been around over the years.
I’m the same way and I make no apologies for it. The unfortunate fact of the matter is that most people suck and all these dog threads reaffirm my position.
Every time I’ve had a dog issue in my life it’s been because it was owned by some irresponsible douche.
That’s why I reiterate in these threads that most people shouldn’t own dogs.
Nobody (including them) wants to deal with their zero trained, zero disciplined, shit bred “fur baby” acting a fool while they yell “he’s friendly and just wants to say hi.”
Of course, I don't know how I'd act if a dog went after my 11 year old. Suppose if it ever happens, I'll find out.
I imagine you’ll handle business.
Years back myself and my previous shepherd who was 6 months old at the time were attacked by a dog in the middle of the road.
That dog ran out the door behind the owner and it was on.
I beat the hell out of that dog and bounced him off the pavement like bam bam and he wouldn’t quit.
The owner stood by with his arms folded and watched the show.
I’m going to end that story there on a public forum but, I will say that was a one time learning event for my puppy that caused dog aggression as well as aggression towards men that I was never able to fix.
WTBS I’ve always been big into training dogs and I’m really deep into the weeds nowadays with high drive working dogs.
What I can tell people is that there’s no absolutes with dogs. What works with one may not with others. Most dogs will back down if you simply charge them but, it’s not what I’d recommend to the average person. I’d say that pepper spray is going to be your best shot but, if you have a serious dog and it has latched onto someone or something the one thing that always works is to grab the collar and lift.
If done correctly, no matter how serious the dog, it will be unconscious in a few seconds. The same thing can be accomplished with a regular nylon leash. Put the clasp through the loop and make a slip knot around it’s neck and lift.
Most people try hitting them and quite honestly just make the dog fight harder and the attack last longer.
Obviously, if shooting is a legal option that would be my first choice but, if not an option, shutting off oxygen and blood to the brain is your only choice.
I wish I knew this back then.
ETA. TLDR.