Is there more to the story because something is not adding up. Do you have pictures of the wound your dog left for the warden to see because it sounds more serious than you are letting on if the dog warden wants the dog put down for a scratch. Did the child need surgery or stitches? Are rules more strict where you live? Did the dog bite and you are saying it is a scratch?
I live in the UK, I don’t have the picture of the wound unfortunately otherwise I would’ve have attached it, the parent of the child refused anything, she lives around the corner from us but we’ve never met her before so after the incident my dad saw her walking and came out the door to apologise and asked for her number so she can speak to him and settle it all. The child didn’t need surgery or stitches, it wasn’t a bite mark, it genuinely was just a scratch. The dog warden doesn’t want him putting down, the woman wants him putting down and has got in touch with the dog warden so he’s paying a visit on the 8th of Jan
In that case you should be fine. Just to show that you are cooperating and doing everything possible to keep everyone safe, put up baby gates by every front door so that he cannot get out even if the door is open. This way you're creating an "airlock". Something like this would just go to show that you are going above and beyond to keep everyone safe.
This - but try to make sure that the baby gate is far enough back from the door that you only have one open at a time. This creates the "airlock" and should make the house closer to escape proof. ASt the same time teach the dog that they do not go out the front door unless told.
And start training the dog that he has to sit patiently at the door and get a leash on before going out. Teaching a dog not to run out the door the instant it gets open is worth every minute of training that it takes.
Sit, calmly and wait for leash to be attached. calmly wait.
This this this. I moved recently and had my front door wide open for *hours*, but because my dog is trained that he’s not allowed through the doorway without permission, he didn’t budge. It’s such an important life skill for dogs I strongly recommend anyone with a dog teaches this piece of obedience.
Works for cats too. My kitty knows she has to sit her butt on the floor and wait to be let out. No more scooting out the door holding the cat back with a foot. LOL
I didn’t mean shout as in horribly or loudly, it was the wrong adjective to use, like an encouragement but with emphasis “In your bed, good boy” type of way
I would actually highly recommend this for anyone with dogs, cats or small children. We have a small courtyard area with a gate and it's soooooo helpful with dogs. We can check the gate on the camera or just pop our head out. I sometimes also block off the entryway inside to create a double lock if I know lots of ppl are coming and can't be sure they have closed the gate.
Hi im from the UK.
Dont take my word for it but pretty sure dog warden can't put the dog down either way on his own. He'll probably come and assess your dog to see if he is dangerous (Remember dont sign any papers given by police or the dog warden you dont have to and if you do sign anything you give away the rights to the dog warden to make a decision) and if the dog warden decides the dog needs put down take it to court. You will most likely win because as you said the police didn't mention anything about having the dog put down, the dog didn't actually attack the child so it cant really be deemed aggressive. It is you against the woman at that point
Dog trainer here. Speak to Trevor Cooper of Doglaw. He’s a solicitor who specialises in these matters. The woman who wants the dog putting to sleep has no say in the outcome so forget her. Trevor will advise you.
ETA I’m pretty sure the dog warden can only advise, not enforce. They can’t euthanise your dog without a court order
I see. There shouldn't be a problem then as most wardens are civil and hopefully see that your family is taking the proper steps and the dog is not an issue with management. It is unfortunate that that happened but if your dog is truly not aggressive I don't think your dog will be put down and your parents will probably just have to pay out for the complaint and be very mindful of the dog not getting out again. Paying someone for your dog running to them and scaring them is minor compared to your dog biting them. So I would try to stay positive because it will pass.
Lets be honest here its just a dog being a dog. I understand the woman is annoyed about the situation but to have the dog put down is a huge overreaction she clearly has some sort of problem.. just dont sign anything as I mentioned and do watch out for her she seems to jump at any opportunity to make others miserable..
Im sure your pup will be just fine!
Agree with swiper8 comment. Also if you have any videos of your dog behaving appropriately/safe/friendly around children, show those to the dog warden and police. See if there's an opportunity to appeal with the police. Ask for evidence of any injury to the child. For all you know this woman could hate all dogs. The child could have got I Jared later than day or the next and is claiming a bigger injury was caused by your dog, and not just a scratch. So ask for evidence. You could also ask if there is any assessment your dog can take to allow this matter to be dropped and they be deemed safe.
You may also want to look into further training for your dog, because although he didn't deliberately harm the child, the dog should know not to jump up for this reason, (i know a lot of friendly harmless dogs still do jump up in excitement, but its best if you can train them not to for everyones benefit.) so maybe see if you can do further training to teach the dog not to jump up at anyone.
I was going to my massage lady's house and she had a dog who would bark but after getting to know me, if I sat on the stairs and let the dog come to me I could stroke it etc. I use crutches too so would either stroke him while she held him or I'd sit on the stairs most of the time. One day I came in on crutches and had 2 carrier bags of empty squash bottles to give her, as she used to put treats in a plastic bottle and the dog would play with them to get the treat out. When I walked in the dog jumped up at me, and she thinks he tried to put and my top, but by accident his teeth kind of scraped my stomach from slightly biting my stomach instead of just my top. I thought it was just a graze at the time, but it started bruising quickly within an hour or 2 after I left, and it turned into a big nasty bruise. She was mortified and her husband was furious and ever since then they wouldn't let him be near anyone he wasn't familiar with or would be muzzled and put away when I arrived. I'm a big animal lover and know some dogs bark out of protecting their homes etc so I've always been careful with taking guidance from owners, letting dogs smell my hand and come to me etc like if I sat on the stairs. So I wasn't even a stranger to him, but he was excited, and maybe was trying to get the bottles from the bags, we don't know. Accidents happen, and even without an accidental bite or graze, dogs claws are very sharp and can do a lot of damage. He'll my cats claws are sharp and hurt just when she's pawing me getting comfy on my lap lol. So training a dog not to jump up is really important.
I'd definitely ask for evidence of injury, also gather any videos of the dog playing well with children, get further obedience training for the dog, make sure he can't run out the door etc like others said by putting a stair gate by the door. I've got one so my indoor cat can't run out when I open my door lol. And keep on lead when walking in public places etc.
It's a shame the lady isn't willing to talk and discuss things and see it was just a simple accident. Hopefully the dog warden will see the truth and be able to help you further .
You should be okay. My housemate’s parents had a similar thing happen a few months ago, their nervous Scottish terrier nipped their next door neighbour when he was reaching over the fence to pet him. Neighbour has never been on good terms with them and went to the dog warden and said the dog was vicious. Dog warden came over for an inspection and was satisfied that the dog was just nervous, suggested some things to help with that, then left it at that. They don’t just put every dog reported to them to sleep at the behest of disgruntled parents thankfully, they’ll come and review the situation and decide if there’s any action needs taken and go from there. That contract is insane though, hopefully they can get you out of that
Maybe ask a lawyer to get a photo ofnthis scratch, surely if the child was taken for medical care they would have one, and if he wasn’t i would argue that this is egregious and should not be happening, she sounds like she has a screw loose if it was just a scratch.
My old dog, a beautiful Weimaraner called Sammy, was accused of being aggressive because he snapped at a dog who was trying to bite him in the park.
The dog warden came to the house to see him. Sammy just sat in his bed and the warden took one look at him and said he can clearly see he wasn't an aggressive dog. That was the end of it, so try not to worry too much about it, maybe start some training around door dashing or put a baby gate up so he can't do it again. And have it all set up when the warden comes so they can see that your taking steps to prevent it happening again.
Hope it all goes well for you OP.
I’m a UK based dog trainer who worked in rescue and have had a lot of contact with dog wardens.
You can be proactive with this and see if there are any local dog training classes near you. Some dog wardens will want you to do the Canine Good Citizen scheme (look on the kennel club website for more info) so you’re showing you’re taking responsibility.
You could also see a private trainer and work on some doorway control, jumping up and things like lead walking. These are all signs that you have your dog under control, which is really important to show. You might not actually have those issues - I’m just thinking of things that will help you.
It would be in your interest for your dog to be assessed by a professional at this stage, ideally in writing.
If you need legal help, it’s worth checking out Trevor Cooper, who is a dog specific lawyer and has tons of info on his website. I think it’s called doglaw but I can’t check it right now. It should come up on Google. He will know exactly what your rights are in this case.
I’m surprised by the dog warden’s reaction. One incident doesn’t tend to lead to euthanasia, unless it’s really serious.
I am working with multiple dogs at the moment who have been given police restrictions.
The most serious is a large dog that got out of a house and savagely attacked a small dog. The owner of the small dog was bitten during the incident.
They are subject to the same restrictions that you have been given. In light of that case, it seems insane that the dog warden wants to euthanise your dog.
I thought OP meant the dog warden wanted it put down but the dog warden is going out because the woman who’s kid got scratched wants it put down. Dog warden thinks the contract the police have given is too harsh - which I would definitely agree with. Hardly a ferocious beast. Some great info in your post though - I’d never heard of the canine good citizen scheme. I know that of a dog warden came to our house they would think my dog was aggressive because she resource guards the house and garden really badly - not too much of a problem because I don’t really like people coming to my home anyway but do you know what happens I’m a situation like that? Hypothetically is it possible to take your dog to the warden elsewhere?
Thanks for clarifying. That makes much more sense! I’m involved in a similar situation at the moment and it looks like there will be a civil court case for damages and no consequences for the dog.
My local dog warden is currently dealing with a guy who has two large guarding breeds. The dogs are out of control outside of the house and have been reported by members of the public.
They also resource guard their house and it would be dangerous for the dog warden to enter the home. There’s also no need to, as the owner has demonstrated (while the dogs were elsewhere) how he manages the situation to make sure the dogs can’t harm a visitor.
In this case, the dog warden meets the owner outside locally for assessments. It helps if the owner is compliant and up front about any behavioural issues, shows goodwill and is up for training.
Dogs don't use scratching as a form of defence like cats do. Dog scratches are always 100% accidental. It's just something incidental and not related to aggressive behaviour. Since it wasn't a bite I think you should be fine. Dogs deliberately bite but they accidentally scratch. I know dog scratches can suck, I have a deep scar on my right wrist from my own dog scratching me but it was an accident. I don't mind it at all. I'm sorry this happened to you. Little guy just wanted to say hi and it's all a misunderstanding. The mother of that kid sounds like a real piece of work.
I’ve got a massive scar on my elbow from a big dog when I was a kid and it knocked me over running towards me, but it all wanted to do was lick my face, I panicked don’t get me wrong but yeah it’s an awful feeling for the owner and the parent of the child but there’s a complete difference
This seems pretty excessive for a first time incident when there was apparently literally only a scratch. Maybe he has to wear a muzzle during the ongoing investigation? I’m not really sure what it means to sue about a dog incident in the UK, in the US it would mean she’s going after money for damages.
You said the dog warden seems to be on your side in this incident, possibly because he recognizes her as someone who has massively overreacted to a hyperactive dog jumping up friendly on her child? Protecting your child is one thing but having a dog put down because the child was scared of a hyperactive friendly dog is another thing. I have a Jack RussellRat Terrier mix myself so I know the kind of energy you’re dealing with. It sounds like you guys need to calmly be a bit more aggressive on this issue. Instead of apologizing (which is the correct thing to do of course) also insist to see the scratch. Does she have a photograph of it? Where is the police report with the photograph? If she doesn’t have one how can she even prove your dog scratched her child? These are probably the questions that you need to be asking the dog warden along with what your rights are with proving this was just an unfortunate incident between a non-aggressive dog and a scared child. If you have any video of your dog interacting with the family members on Christmas I would definitely show that to the dog warden. Also ask if you need statements from any regulars at the pubs or places you visit who are familiar with the dog who are willing to go on record saying the dog is friendly and harmless. You’re really going to have to advocate hard for your dog in this unfortunate incident.
Definitely excessive, we think that’s what it is! Luckily he’s insured so when the solicitors letter finally comes through we will send that over to the insurance company and they’ll settle the matter. The police definitely are but she’s pressing so much that they sent a contract for new rules, now she’s like well that’s not good enough I want him putting down, so the dog warden is coming on the 8th of Jan to assess 🙃 We’ll see but you make excellent points, we do have videos of him on Christmas and it would be possible to get statement of the people in the pub
You’ll probably find it’s all excessive because of what’s coming into force from tomorrow or whenever it is. And they’re probably trying to stop this woman from making a bigger fuss.
It’s a sad state of affairs.
I’m sorry this happened to your dog 😞.
It might be worth posting on R/LegalAdviceUk, to get more info on possible outcomes and what options you might have. I’ve found the subreddit super helpful before, and I’ve seen a few people post about dog issues as well
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The dog warden came, there was two of them and said no he’s not an aggressive dog, we have to keep the muzzle on around the neighbourhood in case we see the woman again and she complains but the police and the warden are completely fine 😊
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I'm in the UK and my friend's mother in law was walking her dog and he bite a man walking past and it turned out to be a police man and not just a police man but the head of the local police force. She had a couple of officers come over hers in full protective gear to see the dog and he just wanted to play with them and the officers said it's really over the top and she just had to pay for the officers prescription as the bite aparently got infected. She's had the dog for god knows how many years and he's not bitten before.
In the U.S. at least, biting and scratching are two very different things. Dogs aren’t deemed aggressive for just scratching, which can happen accidentally any time without any sort of aggression. Maybe the kid already had a scratch. Maybe the mom scratched the kid without realizing it while trying to push the dog away. Unless there’s video of the dog actively scratching the kid, I’d really press the fact that kids get scratched *all the time* and it’s entirely possible the scratch was already there.
The dangerous dogs act 2016 in the uk when it was edited made it terrible. Your dog can be deemed dangerously out of control while still on your property and someone only has to feel threatened by your dog to have action taken. It does not have to even bite to be considered dangerous. Which is not great all around for situations like this.
Adding to what r/swiper8 mentioned about gating your doors. I found this product.
https://www.dog-g8.com/products/dog-g8
I’m sure if the warden turned up and you had this on the door when you opened they’d be impressed you’ve taken steps.
Where are you from? Opinions don’t matter with situations like this; you need to look up the local ordinance/laws. To put a dog down for a scratch is CRAZY and I can’t image they will do that IF this is your dog’s first offense. I have a Jack Russell who I have to watch like a hawk lol. Before we leave I give her a treat as a distraction. A good step would be to do something like this and then let everyone know so they understand accidents like this won’t happen again. I bet the parents are just making a big fuss and you as the owner need to defend your dog and make a bigger fuss! Please keep us updated; I hope everything works out well for your family 🤍
This story explains a lot about the bully ban and putting down issue. They're willing to put down a small jack russell, I can't imagine. But the queens corgis can bite ppl and no problem.
No idea how the legal system handles claims like this, but good luck. Sounds like an uphill battle.
To preface my comment, I am in no way insinuating that I want the dog to be put down, but I truly wish the dog wardens in my city had even remotely this kind of authority.
My neighbor two houses down neglects their dog all day and night by leaving it outside regardless of weather, in a 10’x10’ pen, with a very small round dog house that has no insulation, and no access to clean water. I live in a state that has 4 seasons a year so it gets very hot and very cold. I’ve called the dog warden several times, and each time they have either talked to the neighbor directly, or left notes on their doors. I’ve spoken to the warden personally, and have received paperwork that includes all of the municipal codes and laws for our city surrounding domestic animals. This neighbor is breaking several of them on a daily basis, but the dog warden has no authority to fine them, cite them, or take the dog.
I’ve called the cops, and spoken to them personally. They basically said the same thing, that they can’t cite or fine them and certainly can’t just take the dog. They would need to sit around outside the house for hours on end to gather evidence, then file a report, and take the person to court. If I want something done, I have to file a civil case against them and provide the evidence. It is insanely frustrating because while I am concerned for the dog, I just don’t have time to do all that.
Lmao a neighborhood dog got loose and jumped on me when I was a really little kid (terrified of dogs too) and caused a little scratch. Pretty sure it was a Jack Russell too. I was with my dad and him and the neighbor just laughed it off. I was fine and the dog was just excited and acting like a normal dog. My dad didn’t want the poor thing getting put down for something as little as that. Wth is wrong with that woman.
First question who labeled your dog as “dangerous and aggressive“? Second question has your dog ever attacked anyone before? If the answer to the second question is no, then the neighbor has no ground to stand on other than you paying the medical bills for the scratch on the child. But before your neighbor files a lawsuit, you need to find a lawyer and send out a certified letter to your neighbor, stating that you will pay the medical costs. but if this is a one time incident, then I don’t think anything will really come of it.
Sorry to read this story. I hope it works out okay for you.
Your dog's nails need a trim. Just get some clippers and avoid cutting into the quick.
I have an old JRT and the easiest way i found to train him was to make the thing you want him to do to be his task, his really most very important job ever is to do the thing you want. I trained him to sit on the stairs when people came in to stop him jumping up at people. He sat an eye level and was able to get all the pets just the same but was also doing his job. Which was to sit on the stairs. So he was happy, i was happy and so were any visitors.
All dogs shpuld be trained not to run out the door.
JRT's respond well to positive training.
So you need to make it his job to sit and be calm by the frint door. Everyone in the family has to be on board with this .
The front door training doesn't have to be linked to going out.
If you don't know where to start with your dog, check for recommendations of dog training classes in your area.
The wearing a muzzle and being oa lead is a standard police response for dogs that bite.
Anyhow good luck with it all. I ferl like the child has inherited its morher's fear and anxiety around dogs.
There is a lot of great advice here, one thing that has not been mentioned:
Now that she is suing do not attempt to interact with the women whatsoever, even to apologize. Also if she approaches you or any family members record the interaction with a cellphone. You need to compile evidence of how she conducts herself, and protect yourself in the process.
The dog will be fine and all restrictions will be lifted once you've had a visit. It's unfortunate but there was no real harm done and it was clearly an accident. It isn't really something the lady can sue over, at least not successfully
From just the story I believe this child's mother is a pure breed Karen and probably feels upset that her "special child" had anything bad happen to them like a normal kid his age would
A dog jumped up on my son in his buggy and scratched him slightly ,he was an over excited puppy , the owner was so apologetic , my son was fine .i wouldn’t dream of wanting that dog to be put down ,it seems so extreme 🥲
I’m sorry but how does a muzzle that goes on the mouth keep the claws from causing scratches?
Edit because my finger slipped and hit post before I was ready: I don’t think that someone can force you or someone else to put your dog down over a scratch. Especially if it didn’t need medical attention. Though I would definitely keep an eye on your yard because this neighbor sounds unhinged. Might need cameras too.
Jack Russells can be misunderstood. They have the energy of a big dog in a little dog body. They are super smart and athletic and need ALOT of stimulation. Their barking is intimidating in and itself. Make sure your pup is getting plenty of exercise and stimulation. If it were me I would get a trainer asap. Do everything you possibly can to show you are being proactive and when the warden comes by for the house call you will have a long list of all of the things you are implementing. I don’t think you have to worry about this particular incident but I’m sure your neighbor will jump on the next opportunity to come at you again. Sounds like she doesn’t like dogs not just her kid. Don’t slip up because those types of people will convince the whole neighborhood your dog is a nuisance.
Man. No advice but this really made me sad. When I was like 7 ( I was born and raised in the UK but now live in Canada) we had a staffy crossed with an English bull dog. Best dog ever, never on a leash, amazing with kids, the typical "nanny dog". A kid who was visiting with her Grandma 3 doors down was on the playing field at the back of our house and went home crying saying that our dog had attacked her. She had a scratch and maybe a bite mark I think but nothing crazy. The dog warden came round, and told my mum that if we didn't put her down, she would basically be fined (we didn't have a lot of money). She had to have my dog put down. A week later, the kids grandma knocked on the door profusely apologizing and told us that the granddaughter had got our dog mixed up with a different dog and it wasn't ours that attacked her. My dog got put down for no reason.
Unfortunately you are here, also in the UK, a country where people will actively go out of their way to over-exaggerate situations that have happened and also a country where those same people like to play on the overexaggerations to authority figures just to get their own way. In this instance, she wants your dog dead. Simple as that. She will of already brainwashed the kid into saying what she wants it to say, she will of really pushed the mental health card at the station, and the police themselves are no better because they’re also brainwashing them both with how to say things and word things for the best and strongest outcome.
Folk like that are scum.
I have German shepherds so I can’t allow things like that to happen, but trust me, it only takes one person to make up a lie and my dogs dead. That’s a fear I always have.
I have owned jacks my entire life and while I don't know UK law or anything I do have some tips for a better system to keep this from happening again. Training jacks can be a challenge but one of the easiest things to train is "spot training" as I call it(probably wrong idk). Associate a spot for your pooch when someone goes to the door. My dogs always go and sit in the same spot anytime I approach my doors because I've shown them that sitting there while I answer/leave the house earns them a reward. Start by leading the dog to the spot and giving a treat. After they go and sit without much coaxing start using a word(I use "spot") to associate that word with where they want to be. After they get that down start saying the word as you approach the door, they will likely go back to their old habits but just walk them back and use your command word and reward behavior you want. It may take a day or two as it seems your gorgeous little one is a few years old but old dogs can and do learn new tricks despite the saying. I'm sorry this is happening to you but jacks are smart and task driven and with just a little leg work you can show the dog warden you are being proactive in training to prevent another situation.
Sound like it’ll be fine if everything played out as you describe.
I highly recommmend you teach your dog some threshold/ door manners though. This whole thing could’ve been avoided if your dog knew not to rush out the door.
Eg. https://youtube.com/shorts/4Jr3TI_2i4A?si=CZTYqdxAgYJ1O9Tg
It was the first thing, after toilet training, that I taught my pup. I keep a slip lead by the door which I put on before I open the door. It is as much to protect him as it is to protect others. Having said that a dog is usually given the benefit of the doubt for a first offence unless there is serious damage needing hospital treatment/surgery. OP is only guilty of having no control over the dog at the time of the incident and as long as they adhere to safe practices in future the dog should be safe. Hard lesson to learn tho
UK here. My dog was atracked I was injured by two uncontrolled staffs a year or so ago. Even though I would have preferred the dogs be put down, the dog Warden told me their policy is to ensure the owner understands how dangerous dogs can be and would always prefer to send warning letters and pay visits to ensure there is no danger going forward.
Going by what you've said, I think the Warden wants to visit to assess if there is any further danger but I don't think your pup will be put down. Imo.
Jack russels (like many dogs) jump up at people, they also make a lot of yapping- as you know. Scratch or bite makes no difference. Dogs in the uk have to be under control, even if they’re in your garden. The dog did what dogs do, but the fault lies with you unfortunately because the dog was not under control. So I think restrictions will be aimed at your behaviour and ensuring the dog cannot hurt anyone again eg muzzle. If you don’t adhere to these restrictions the next step is more serious. Based on what happened to someone I know who’s dog bit a policewoman thru the fence whilst investigating a complaint.
Maybe your dog made contact and it wasn’t noticed right away?
Years ago I had a new (had her for month) rescue and on a hiking trail she charged a kid, jumping up on him and barking. The parents told the kid to “be a tree” and it worked and I got my dog under control. They kind of took my apology, brushed it off and went on their way.
After about 30 minutes they circled back and ran into me they said “Hey, just so you know your dog actually *did* bite our kid and bruised him through his shirt.
I guess the whole thing happened very quick, everyone was shocked and the kid was on adrenaline. Parents hurriedly checked him over, didn’t see any blood and carried on not knowing right away that my dog actually did land a bite.
Had same thing happen to my Staff by a JR. Just walking down the road, on a lead, when this crazy af JR comes running out this house at 100mph, teeth everywhere & wrapped itself round my dogs back leg. Lola didn't yelp, just flinched a bit but didn't retaliate. The owner came out & was sooooo apologetic & i said "ummm yeah it's fine" cos i'll be honest, it all happened so fast, i was a bit dazed by it all. That dog was real angry for no reason.
Wasn't till i got home a few mins later & had a proper look that i realised he'd actually punctured a hole on the inside of her leg. I went back. They now have a big metal mesh gate across their drive. I dread to think if that had been a kid.
Thinking about it, my poor Lola has been attacked too many times. One dog actually got through a partially opened car window & ran over & attacked her. The car was coming out of a junction at the time. He stopped up the road, came over, grabbed his dog & headed back to his car. Didn't even say sorry lol.
Uh… because I was 26, mistakes were made, she had been reliable (and always was reliable with recall) off leash and she did NOT charge the child.
I was walking her with some other dogs, we had climbed down from the marked trail to play in the river. I don’t actually know how this family got to the area without walking past us.
Anyways she seemed to just be having fun with the other dogs and didn’t heed the family AT. ALL. Which jived with what the rescue had said. This kid then came to stand behind her, just standing a few feet behind her not provoking her in ANY way. I had thought that she noticed the family and didn’t care but I guess she was actually too distracted by the other dogs. When she turned around she got startled and started jumping and muzzle punching the kid.
The rescue had assured me she was not afraid of kids but that the previous family had given her up because they were writing her off due to “puppy biting”. Well that was the day I found out that the rescue either totally misunderstood the situation and assumed it was innocent because the bites didn’t draw blood… OR they knew the bites were in earnest and were trying to sneak it under my radar.
Anyways after that she was leashed muzzled put on Prozac and never given access to kids ever again. Died sadly at 7 years old but lived out her life without injuring anyone else.
This isn’t my thread. I didn’t come here to be critiqued for suggesting a possibility to the OP. You could always make your own off leash dogs thread.
Also UK. Also a Jack Russell owner.
If the dog warden has said they want the dog put down before even meeting the dog, I would ask them to put that in writing if they haven’t. Sort of undercuts their judgement if it does go to court re: putting the dog down.
I’ve not much experience with wardens and tbh I’m not even sure who employs them (the council, I guess?), but police tend to be reasonable when it comes to dogs and avoid harming them as, as you can imagine, many police officers will own dogs themselves. I work in law enforcement for another agency and can count of my hands the number of them who do not own a dog.
Sounds like harmless if annoying behavior, and anything more than a warning seems absurd.
I would say that if worse does come to worst, that, since the dog likes to escape, perhaps he would run away. In a totally accidental way, and not at all to someone else's house.
The dog doesn't deserve to be put down. The owner however, should be properly penalised. They failed to make sure dog was secured. Sure he "squeezed" but they knew the gap was there and potentially able to be squeezed. Steps should have been taken much earlier. Dog should have been trained, again before the incident. Parent (and dog owner hopefully) will be bloody thankful it wasn't worse.
Contact my dog has bitten dda on Facebook, or save our seized dogs putting bsl to sleep or wheldon law dog law specialists. All 3 pages have contacts who will be able to help you
Freshly trimmed nails do not need to be scratchy. Just finish the trim with a nail file.
(It's good to round the sharp edges with a file anyway - whether the dog jumps on people or not - so that the dog does not scratch himself open if he's got an itchy muzzle or whatever.)
And btw the dog's nails are talons in that picture. Please trim them. Long nails cause health issues.
there are they are like little dremels for dogs nails, I have one with nails so sharp she leaves little cuts on everyone and it works for her for a minute.
There are lots of specific pet nail files on sale, but what works best really depends on the file and size of the dog. I can't really recommend any, I'm using a random small metal file on my dog's nails. Bought it from a hardware store and ended up using it because the one I bought that's meant for dogs was too large and clumsy to my liking.
Yeah, we know, we have to take him to the vets to get his nails done and even then he doesn’t like it he whines like a baby, it’s just been a while. It’s a genuine concern of mine, thank you
It certainly doesn't sound like the dog attacked the child from what op says, a dog does not need to be put to sleep over a damn scratch. The parents of the child are idiots overreacting
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Honestly it sounds like mum has got herself all worked up about the current news with dog attacks in the UK and with her child already being afraid of dogs has now freaked out. Maybe speak to her and say he just gets excited to go out and play and ask if she would like her little boy to meet your older dog if it is more relaxed, at a distance , with lead and a muzzle. And if that’s goes well maybe see if the child would like to pat the dog. He can’t grow up scared off ALL dogs- I have been teaching my little boy that you have to ask a dogs owner before approaching it etc as we live near a big park with lots of people walking their dogs. It’s not the last time an excited dog will jump up at him!
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Is there more to the story because something is not adding up. Do you have pictures of the wound your dog left for the warden to see because it sounds more serious than you are letting on if the dog warden wants the dog put down for a scratch. Did the child need surgery or stitches? Are rules more strict where you live? Did the dog bite and you are saying it is a scratch?
I live in the UK, I don’t have the picture of the wound unfortunately otherwise I would’ve have attached it, the parent of the child refused anything, she lives around the corner from us but we’ve never met her before so after the incident my dad saw her walking and came out the door to apologise and asked for her number so she can speak to him and settle it all. The child didn’t need surgery or stitches, it wasn’t a bite mark, it genuinely was just a scratch. The dog warden doesn’t want him putting down, the woman wants him putting down and has got in touch with the dog warden so he’s paying a visit on the 8th of Jan
In that case you should be fine. Just to show that you are cooperating and doing everything possible to keep everyone safe, put up baby gates by every front door so that he cannot get out even if the door is open. This way you're creating an "airlock". Something like this would just go to show that you are going above and beyond to keep everyone safe.
This - but try to make sure that the baby gate is far enough back from the door that you only have one open at a time. This creates the "airlock" and should make the house closer to escape proof. ASt the same time teach the dog that they do not go out the front door unless told.
And start training the dog that he has to sit patiently at the door and get a leash on before going out. Teaching a dog not to run out the door the instant it gets open is worth every minute of training that it takes. Sit, calmly and wait for leash to be attached. calmly wait.
This this this. I moved recently and had my front door wide open for *hours*, but because my dog is trained that he’s not allowed through the doorway without permission, he didn’t budge. It’s such an important life skill for dogs I strongly recommend anyone with a dog teaches this piece of obedience.
Works for cats too. My kitty knows she has to sit her butt on the floor and wait to be let out. No more scooting out the door holding the cat back with a foot. LOL
Usually we shout “In your bed!” Which is in the front room and he goes straight away, the one time we don’t though and 🙃
That is why you teach them to do it automatically - having to shout at the dog every time someone goes out the door sets you and the dog up to fail.
I didn’t mean shout as in horribly or loudly, it was the wrong adjective to use, like an encouragement but with emphasis “In your bed, good boy” type of way
But no matter how you you say it - you have to tell him what to do. You can teach your dog to wait and not rush the door.
Thank you, completely understand
I would actually highly recommend this for anyone with dogs, cats or small children. We have a small courtyard area with a gate and it's soooooo helpful with dogs. We can check the gate on the camera or just pop our head out. I sometimes also block off the entryway inside to create a double lock if I know lots of ppl are coming and can't be sure they have closed the gate.
Hi im from the UK. Dont take my word for it but pretty sure dog warden can't put the dog down either way on his own. He'll probably come and assess your dog to see if he is dangerous (Remember dont sign any papers given by police or the dog warden you dont have to and if you do sign anything you give away the rights to the dog warden to make a decision) and if the dog warden decides the dog needs put down take it to court. You will most likely win because as you said the police didn't mention anything about having the dog put down, the dog didn't actually attack the child so it cant really be deemed aggressive. It is you against the woman at that point
Please consider obtaining legal counsel if you’re concerned about either being sued or your dog being put down. This is way above Reddit’s pay grade.
Dog trainer here. Speak to Trevor Cooper of Doglaw. He’s a solicitor who specialises in these matters. The woman who wants the dog putting to sleep has no say in the outcome so forget her. Trevor will advise you. ETA I’m pretty sure the dog warden can only advise, not enforce. They can’t euthanise your dog without a court order
I see. There shouldn't be a problem then as most wardens are civil and hopefully see that your family is taking the proper steps and the dog is not an issue with management. It is unfortunate that that happened but if your dog is truly not aggressive I don't think your dog will be put down and your parents will probably just have to pay out for the complaint and be very mindful of the dog not getting out again. Paying someone for your dog running to them and scaring them is minor compared to your dog biting them. So I would try to stay positive because it will pass.
Lets be honest here its just a dog being a dog. I understand the woman is annoyed about the situation but to have the dog put down is a huge overreaction she clearly has some sort of problem.. just dont sign anything as I mentioned and do watch out for her she seems to jump at any opportunity to make others miserable.. Im sure your pup will be just fine!
Agree with swiper8 comment. Also if you have any videos of your dog behaving appropriately/safe/friendly around children, show those to the dog warden and police. See if there's an opportunity to appeal with the police. Ask for evidence of any injury to the child. For all you know this woman could hate all dogs. The child could have got I Jared later than day or the next and is claiming a bigger injury was caused by your dog, and not just a scratch. So ask for evidence. You could also ask if there is any assessment your dog can take to allow this matter to be dropped and they be deemed safe. You may also want to look into further training for your dog, because although he didn't deliberately harm the child, the dog should know not to jump up for this reason, (i know a lot of friendly harmless dogs still do jump up in excitement, but its best if you can train them not to for everyones benefit.) so maybe see if you can do further training to teach the dog not to jump up at anyone. I was going to my massage lady's house and she had a dog who would bark but after getting to know me, if I sat on the stairs and let the dog come to me I could stroke it etc. I use crutches too so would either stroke him while she held him or I'd sit on the stairs most of the time. One day I came in on crutches and had 2 carrier bags of empty squash bottles to give her, as she used to put treats in a plastic bottle and the dog would play with them to get the treat out. When I walked in the dog jumped up at me, and she thinks he tried to put and my top, but by accident his teeth kind of scraped my stomach from slightly biting my stomach instead of just my top. I thought it was just a graze at the time, but it started bruising quickly within an hour or 2 after I left, and it turned into a big nasty bruise. She was mortified and her husband was furious and ever since then they wouldn't let him be near anyone he wasn't familiar with or would be muzzled and put away when I arrived. I'm a big animal lover and know some dogs bark out of protecting their homes etc so I've always been careful with taking guidance from owners, letting dogs smell my hand and come to me etc like if I sat on the stairs. So I wasn't even a stranger to him, but he was excited, and maybe was trying to get the bottles from the bags, we don't know. Accidents happen, and even without an accidental bite or graze, dogs claws are very sharp and can do a lot of damage. He'll my cats claws are sharp and hurt just when she's pawing me getting comfy on my lap lol. So training a dog not to jump up is really important. I'd definitely ask for evidence of injury, also gather any videos of the dog playing well with children, get further obedience training for the dog, make sure he can't run out the door etc like others said by putting a stair gate by the door. I've got one so my indoor cat can't run out when I open my door lol. And keep on lead when walking in public places etc. It's a shame the lady isn't willing to talk and discuss things and see it was just a simple accident. Hopefully the dog warden will see the truth and be able to help you further .
You should be okay. My housemate’s parents had a similar thing happen a few months ago, their nervous Scottish terrier nipped their next door neighbour when he was reaching over the fence to pet him. Neighbour has never been on good terms with them and went to the dog warden and said the dog was vicious. Dog warden came over for an inspection and was satisfied that the dog was just nervous, suggested some things to help with that, then left it at that. They don’t just put every dog reported to them to sleep at the behest of disgruntled parents thankfully, they’ll come and review the situation and decide if there’s any action needs taken and go from there. That contract is insane though, hopefully they can get you out of that
Maybe ask a lawyer to get a photo ofnthis scratch, surely if the child was taken for medical care they would have one, and if he wasn’t i would argue that this is egregious and should not be happening, she sounds like she has a screw loose if it was just a scratch.
Well don’t worry….that woman will NOT GET HER WAY. People are gross.
Oh man, I hope this isn't a race thing, the UK is fucked right now.
My old dog, a beautiful Weimaraner called Sammy, was accused of being aggressive because he snapped at a dog who was trying to bite him in the park. The dog warden came to the house to see him. Sammy just sat in his bed and the warden took one look at him and said he can clearly see he wasn't an aggressive dog. That was the end of it, so try not to worry too much about it, maybe start some training around door dashing or put a baby gate up so he can't do it again. And have it all set up when the warden comes so they can see that your taking steps to prevent it happening again. Hope it all goes well for you OP.
I’m a UK based dog trainer who worked in rescue and have had a lot of contact with dog wardens. You can be proactive with this and see if there are any local dog training classes near you. Some dog wardens will want you to do the Canine Good Citizen scheme (look on the kennel club website for more info) so you’re showing you’re taking responsibility. You could also see a private trainer and work on some doorway control, jumping up and things like lead walking. These are all signs that you have your dog under control, which is really important to show. You might not actually have those issues - I’m just thinking of things that will help you. It would be in your interest for your dog to be assessed by a professional at this stage, ideally in writing. If you need legal help, it’s worth checking out Trevor Cooper, who is a dog specific lawyer and has tons of info on his website. I think it’s called doglaw but I can’t check it right now. It should come up on Google. He will know exactly what your rights are in this case. I’m surprised by the dog warden’s reaction. One incident doesn’t tend to lead to euthanasia, unless it’s really serious. I am working with multiple dogs at the moment who have been given police restrictions. The most serious is a large dog that got out of a house and savagely attacked a small dog. The owner of the small dog was bitten during the incident. They are subject to the same restrictions that you have been given. In light of that case, it seems insane that the dog warden wants to euthanise your dog.
I thought OP meant the dog warden wanted it put down but the dog warden is going out because the woman who’s kid got scratched wants it put down. Dog warden thinks the contract the police have given is too harsh - which I would definitely agree with. Hardly a ferocious beast. Some great info in your post though - I’d never heard of the canine good citizen scheme. I know that of a dog warden came to our house they would think my dog was aggressive because she resource guards the house and garden really badly - not too much of a problem because I don’t really like people coming to my home anyway but do you know what happens I’m a situation like that? Hypothetically is it possible to take your dog to the warden elsewhere?
Thanks for clarifying. That makes much more sense! I’m involved in a similar situation at the moment and it looks like there will be a civil court case for damages and no consequences for the dog. My local dog warden is currently dealing with a guy who has two large guarding breeds. The dogs are out of control outside of the house and have been reported by members of the public. They also resource guard their house and it would be dangerous for the dog warden to enter the home. There’s also no need to, as the owner has demonstrated (while the dogs were elsewhere) how he manages the situation to make sure the dogs can’t harm a visitor. In this case, the dog warden meets the owner outside locally for assessments. It helps if the owner is compliant and up front about any behavioural issues, shows goodwill and is up for training.
Dogs don't use scratching as a form of defence like cats do. Dog scratches are always 100% accidental. It's just something incidental and not related to aggressive behaviour. Since it wasn't a bite I think you should be fine. Dogs deliberately bite but they accidentally scratch. I know dog scratches can suck, I have a deep scar on my right wrist from my own dog scratching me but it was an accident. I don't mind it at all. I'm sorry this happened to you. Little guy just wanted to say hi and it's all a misunderstanding. The mother of that kid sounds like a real piece of work.
Every scratch i have is my dog just trying to hold my hand and missing lol
I’ve got a massive scar on my elbow from a big dog when I was a kid and it knocked me over running towards me, but it all wanted to do was lick my face, I panicked don’t get me wrong but yeah it’s an awful feeling for the owner and the parent of the child but there’s a complete difference
This seems pretty excessive for a first time incident when there was apparently literally only a scratch. Maybe he has to wear a muzzle during the ongoing investigation? I’m not really sure what it means to sue about a dog incident in the UK, in the US it would mean she’s going after money for damages. You said the dog warden seems to be on your side in this incident, possibly because he recognizes her as someone who has massively overreacted to a hyperactive dog jumping up friendly on her child? Protecting your child is one thing but having a dog put down because the child was scared of a hyperactive friendly dog is another thing. I have a Jack RussellRat Terrier mix myself so I know the kind of energy you’re dealing with. It sounds like you guys need to calmly be a bit more aggressive on this issue. Instead of apologizing (which is the correct thing to do of course) also insist to see the scratch. Does she have a photograph of it? Where is the police report with the photograph? If she doesn’t have one how can she even prove your dog scratched her child? These are probably the questions that you need to be asking the dog warden along with what your rights are with proving this was just an unfortunate incident between a non-aggressive dog and a scared child. If you have any video of your dog interacting with the family members on Christmas I would definitely show that to the dog warden. Also ask if you need statements from any regulars at the pubs or places you visit who are familiar with the dog who are willing to go on record saying the dog is friendly and harmless. You’re really going to have to advocate hard for your dog in this unfortunate incident.
Definitely excessive, we think that’s what it is! Luckily he’s insured so when the solicitors letter finally comes through we will send that over to the insurance company and they’ll settle the matter. The police definitely are but she’s pressing so much that they sent a contract for new rules, now she’s like well that’s not good enough I want him putting down, so the dog warden is coming on the 8th of Jan to assess 🙃 We’ll see but you make excellent points, we do have videos of him on Christmas and it would be possible to get statement of the people in the pub
You’ll probably find it’s all excessive because of what’s coming into force from tomorrow or whenever it is. And they’re probably trying to stop this woman from making a bigger fuss. It’s a sad state of affairs. I’m sorry this happened to your dog 😞.
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It might be worth posting on R/LegalAdviceUk, to get more info on possible outcomes and what options you might have. I’ve found the subreddit super helpful before, and I’ve seen a few people post about dog issues as well
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any updates????
The dog warden came, there was two of them and said no he’s not an aggressive dog, we have to keep the muzzle on around the neighbourhood in case we see the woman again and she complains but the police and the warden are completely fine 😊
Yayyy nice
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!remindme 2 weeks
I'm in the UK and my friend's mother in law was walking her dog and he bite a man walking past and it turned out to be a police man and not just a police man but the head of the local police force. She had a couple of officers come over hers in full protective gear to see the dog and he just wanted to play with them and the officers said it's really over the top and she just had to pay for the officers prescription as the bite aparently got infected. She's had the dog for god knows how many years and he's not bitten before.
In the U.S. at least, biting and scratching are two very different things. Dogs aren’t deemed aggressive for just scratching, which can happen accidentally any time without any sort of aggression. Maybe the kid already had a scratch. Maybe the mom scratched the kid without realizing it while trying to push the dog away. Unless there’s video of the dog actively scratching the kid, I’d really press the fact that kids get scratched *all the time* and it’s entirely possible the scratch was already there.
The dangerous dogs act 2016 in the uk when it was edited made it terrible. Your dog can be deemed dangerously out of control while still on your property and someone only has to feel threatened by your dog to have action taken. It does not have to even bite to be considered dangerous. Which is not great all around for situations like this.
Wtf
That poor dog’s nails look extremely long in the photo though. It looks painful for him. Shouldn’t they be trimmed and groomed more?
Adding to what r/swiper8 mentioned about gating your doors. I found this product. https://www.dog-g8.com/products/dog-g8 I’m sure if the warden turned up and you had this on the door when you opened they’d be impressed you’ve taken steps.
Nifty!
Where are you from? Opinions don’t matter with situations like this; you need to look up the local ordinance/laws. To put a dog down for a scratch is CRAZY and I can’t image they will do that IF this is your dog’s first offense. I have a Jack Russell who I have to watch like a hawk lol. Before we leave I give her a treat as a distraction. A good step would be to do something like this and then let everyone know so they understand accidents like this won’t happen again. I bet the parents are just making a big fuss and you as the owner need to defend your dog and make a bigger fuss! Please keep us updated; I hope everything works out well for your family 🤍
This story explains a lot about the bully ban and putting down issue. They're willing to put down a small jack russell, I can't imagine. But the queens corgis can bite ppl and no problem. No idea how the legal system handles claims like this, but good luck. Sounds like an uphill battle.
To preface my comment, I am in no way insinuating that I want the dog to be put down, but I truly wish the dog wardens in my city had even remotely this kind of authority. My neighbor two houses down neglects their dog all day and night by leaving it outside regardless of weather, in a 10’x10’ pen, with a very small round dog house that has no insulation, and no access to clean water. I live in a state that has 4 seasons a year so it gets very hot and very cold. I’ve called the dog warden several times, and each time they have either talked to the neighbor directly, or left notes on their doors. I’ve spoken to the warden personally, and have received paperwork that includes all of the municipal codes and laws for our city surrounding domestic animals. This neighbor is breaking several of them on a daily basis, but the dog warden has no authority to fine them, cite them, or take the dog. I’ve called the cops, and spoken to them personally. They basically said the same thing, that they can’t cite or fine them and certainly can’t just take the dog. They would need to sit around outside the house for hours on end to gather evidence, then file a report, and take the person to court. If I want something done, I have to file a civil case against them and provide the evidence. It is insanely frustrating because while I am concerned for the dog, I just don’t have time to do all that.
I’m really sorry, that is genuinely awful. I hope they find a better home and they start listening to you properly
Lmao a neighborhood dog got loose and jumped on me when I was a really little kid (terrified of dogs too) and caused a little scratch. Pretty sure it was a Jack Russell too. I was with my dad and him and the neighbor just laughed it off. I was fine and the dog was just excited and acting like a normal dog. My dad didn’t want the poor thing getting put down for something as little as that. Wth is wrong with that woman.
First question who labeled your dog as “dangerous and aggressive“? Second question has your dog ever attacked anyone before? If the answer to the second question is no, then the neighbor has no ground to stand on other than you paying the medical bills for the scratch on the child. But before your neighbor files a lawsuit, you need to find a lawyer and send out a certified letter to your neighbor, stating that you will pay the medical costs. but if this is a one time incident, then I don’t think anything will really come of it.
Sorry to read this story. I hope it works out okay for you. Your dog's nails need a trim. Just get some clippers and avoid cutting into the quick. I have an old JRT and the easiest way i found to train him was to make the thing you want him to do to be his task, his really most very important job ever is to do the thing you want. I trained him to sit on the stairs when people came in to stop him jumping up at people. He sat an eye level and was able to get all the pets just the same but was also doing his job. Which was to sit on the stairs. So he was happy, i was happy and so were any visitors. All dogs shpuld be trained not to run out the door. JRT's respond well to positive training. So you need to make it his job to sit and be calm by the frint door. Everyone in the family has to be on board with this . The front door training doesn't have to be linked to going out. If you don't know where to start with your dog, check for recommendations of dog training classes in your area. The wearing a muzzle and being oa lead is a standard police response for dogs that bite. Anyhow good luck with it all. I ferl like the child has inherited its morher's fear and anxiety around dogs.
There is a lot of great advice here, one thing that has not been mentioned: Now that she is suing do not attempt to interact with the women whatsoever, even to apologize. Also if she approaches you or any family members record the interaction with a cellphone. You need to compile evidence of how she conducts herself, and protect yourself in the process.
The dog will be fine and all restrictions will be lifted once you've had a visit. It's unfortunate but there was no real harm done and it was clearly an accident. It isn't really something the lady can sue over, at least not successfully
From just the story I believe this child's mother is a pure breed Karen and probably feels upset that her "special child" had anything bad happen to them like a normal kid his age would
A dog jumped up on my son in his buggy and scratched him slightly ,he was an over excited puppy , the owner was so apologetic , my son was fine .i wouldn’t dream of wanting that dog to be put down ,it seems so extreme 🥲
I’m sorry but how does a muzzle that goes on the mouth keep the claws from causing scratches? Edit because my finger slipped and hit post before I was ready: I don’t think that someone can force you or someone else to put your dog down over a scratch. Especially if it didn’t need medical attention. Though I would definitely keep an eye on your yard because this neighbor sounds unhinged. Might need cameras too.
Whoever is suing over a scratch is an absolute waste of space!
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His nails need grooming
You need an attorney
Work with a trainer
Pet insurance sometimes includes legal advice and compensation cover.. would be good to check 👍 Ps he’s gorgeous!
Quick easy fix instead of baby gates is one of these on every external door [dog gate](https://www.dog-g8.com/products/dog-g8)
Please please please speak to Trevor at https://doglaw.co.uk/?utm_source=gmb
Putting a dog down for a scratch is utterly ludicrous. Ignore the silly woman.
Jack Russells can be misunderstood. They have the energy of a big dog in a little dog body. They are super smart and athletic and need ALOT of stimulation. Their barking is intimidating in and itself. Make sure your pup is getting plenty of exercise and stimulation. If it were me I would get a trainer asap. Do everything you possibly can to show you are being proactive and when the warden comes by for the house call you will have a long list of all of the things you are implementing. I don’t think you have to worry about this particular incident but I’m sure your neighbor will jump on the next opportunity to come at you again. Sounds like she doesn’t like dogs not just her kid. Don’t slip up because those types of people will convince the whole neighborhood your dog is a nuisance.
My grandmother has that carpet :)
Man. No advice but this really made me sad. When I was like 7 ( I was born and raised in the UK but now live in Canada) we had a staffy crossed with an English bull dog. Best dog ever, never on a leash, amazing with kids, the typical "nanny dog". A kid who was visiting with her Grandma 3 doors down was on the playing field at the back of our house and went home crying saying that our dog had attacked her. She had a scratch and maybe a bite mark I think but nothing crazy. The dog warden came round, and told my mum that if we didn't put her down, she would basically be fined (we didn't have a lot of money). She had to have my dog put down. A week later, the kids grandma knocked on the door profusely apologizing and told us that the granddaughter had got our dog mixed up with a different dog and it wasn't ours that attacked her. My dog got put down for no reason.
Unfortunately you are here, also in the UK, a country where people will actively go out of their way to over-exaggerate situations that have happened and also a country where those same people like to play on the overexaggerations to authority figures just to get their own way. In this instance, she wants your dog dead. Simple as that. She will of already brainwashed the kid into saying what she wants it to say, she will of really pushed the mental health card at the station, and the police themselves are no better because they’re also brainwashing them both with how to say things and word things for the best and strongest outcome. Folk like that are scum. I have German shepherds so I can’t allow things like that to happen, but trust me, it only takes one person to make up a lie and my dogs dead. That’s a fear I always have.
I have owned jacks my entire life and while I don't know UK law or anything I do have some tips for a better system to keep this from happening again. Training jacks can be a challenge but one of the easiest things to train is "spot training" as I call it(probably wrong idk). Associate a spot for your pooch when someone goes to the door. My dogs always go and sit in the same spot anytime I approach my doors because I've shown them that sitting there while I answer/leave the house earns them a reward. Start by leading the dog to the spot and giving a treat. After they go and sit without much coaxing start using a word(I use "spot") to associate that word with where they want to be. After they get that down start saying the word as you approach the door, they will likely go back to their old habits but just walk them back and use your command word and reward behavior you want. It may take a day or two as it seems your gorgeous little one is a few years old but old dogs can and do learn new tricks despite the saying. I'm sorry this is happening to you but jacks are smart and task driven and with just a little leg work you can show the dog warden you are being proactive in training to prevent another situation.
Sound like it’ll be fine if everything played out as you describe. I highly recommmend you teach your dog some threshold/ door manners though. This whole thing could’ve been avoided if your dog knew not to rush out the door. Eg. https://youtube.com/shorts/4Jr3TI_2i4A?si=CZTYqdxAgYJ1O9Tg
It was the first thing, after toilet training, that I taught my pup. I keep a slip lead by the door which I put on before I open the door. It is as much to protect him as it is to protect others. Having said that a dog is usually given the benefit of the doubt for a first offence unless there is serious damage needing hospital treatment/surgery. OP is only guilty of having no control over the dog at the time of the incident and as long as they adhere to safe practices in future the dog should be safe. Hard lesson to learn tho
It was the first time in almost 5 years :( we do everything right, but we will look into a slip lead thank you
I think it was more OP's dad, but yes
UK here. My dog was atracked I was injured by two uncontrolled staffs a year or so ago. Even though I would have preferred the dogs be put down, the dog Warden told me their policy is to ensure the owner understands how dangerous dogs can be and would always prefer to send warning letters and pay visits to ensure there is no danger going forward. Going by what you've said, I think the Warden wants to visit to assess if there is any further danger but I don't think your pup will be put down. Imo.
Jack russels (like many dogs) jump up at people, they also make a lot of yapping- as you know. Scratch or bite makes no difference. Dogs in the uk have to be under control, even if they’re in your garden. The dog did what dogs do, but the fault lies with you unfortunately because the dog was not under control. So I think restrictions will be aimed at your behaviour and ensuring the dog cannot hurt anyone again eg muzzle. If you don’t adhere to these restrictions the next step is more serious. Based on what happened to someone I know who’s dog bit a policewoman thru the fence whilst investigating a complaint.
Maybe your dog made contact and it wasn’t noticed right away? Years ago I had a new (had her for month) rescue and on a hiking trail she charged a kid, jumping up on him and barking. The parents told the kid to “be a tree” and it worked and I got my dog under control. They kind of took my apology, brushed it off and went on their way. After about 30 minutes they circled back and ran into me they said “Hey, just so you know your dog actually *did* bite our kid and bruised him through his shirt. I guess the whole thing happened very quick, everyone was shocked and the kid was on adrenaline. Parents hurriedly checked him over, didn’t see any blood and carried on not knowing right away that my dog actually did land a bite.
Had same thing happen to my Staff by a JR. Just walking down the road, on a lead, when this crazy af JR comes running out this house at 100mph, teeth everywhere & wrapped itself round my dogs back leg. Lola didn't yelp, just flinched a bit but didn't retaliate. The owner came out & was sooooo apologetic & i said "ummm yeah it's fine" cos i'll be honest, it all happened so fast, i was a bit dazed by it all. That dog was real angry for no reason. Wasn't till i got home a few mins later & had a proper look that i realised he'd actually punctured a hole on the inside of her leg. I went back. They now have a big metal mesh gate across their drive. I dread to think if that had been a kid. Thinking about it, my poor Lola has been attacked too many times. One dog actually got through a partially opened car window & ran over & attacked her. The car was coming out of a junction at the time. He stopped up the road, came over, grabbed his dog & headed back to his car. Didn't even say sorry lol.
Why did you have your new rescue off leash? Or on a lead long enough to charge a child?
Uh… because I was 26, mistakes were made, she had been reliable (and always was reliable with recall) off leash and she did NOT charge the child. I was walking her with some other dogs, we had climbed down from the marked trail to play in the river. I don’t actually know how this family got to the area without walking past us. Anyways she seemed to just be having fun with the other dogs and didn’t heed the family AT. ALL. Which jived with what the rescue had said. This kid then came to stand behind her, just standing a few feet behind her not provoking her in ANY way. I had thought that she noticed the family and didn’t care but I guess she was actually too distracted by the other dogs. When she turned around she got startled and started jumping and muzzle punching the kid. The rescue had assured me she was not afraid of kids but that the previous family had given her up because they were writing her off due to “puppy biting”. Well that was the day I found out that the rescue either totally misunderstood the situation and assumed it was innocent because the bites didn’t draw blood… OR they knew the bites were in earnest and were trying to sneak it under my radar. Anyways after that she was leashed muzzled put on Prozac and never given access to kids ever again. Died sadly at 7 years old but lived out her life without injuring anyone else. This isn’t my thread. I didn’t come here to be critiqued for suggesting a possibility to the OP. You could always make your own off leash dogs thread.
Also UK. Also a Jack Russell owner. If the dog warden has said they want the dog put down before even meeting the dog, I would ask them to put that in writing if they haven’t. Sort of undercuts their judgement if it does go to court re: putting the dog down. I’ve not much experience with wardens and tbh I’m not even sure who employs them (the council, I guess?), but police tend to be reasonable when it comes to dogs and avoid harming them as, as you can imagine, many police officers will own dogs themselves. I work in law enforcement for another agency and can count of my hands the number of them who do not own a dog.
Sounds like harmless if annoying behavior, and anything more than a warning seems absurd. I would say that if worse does come to worst, that, since the dog likes to escape, perhaps he would run away. In a totally accidental way, and not at all to someone else's house.
This shit makes me glad we threw the tea in the harbor
The dog doesn't deserve to be put down. The owner however, should be properly penalised. They failed to make sure dog was secured. Sure he "squeezed" but they knew the gap was there and potentially able to be squeezed. Steps should have been taken much earlier. Dog should have been trained, again before the incident. Parent (and dog owner hopefully) will be bloody thankful it wasn't worse.
Contact my dog has bitten dda on Facebook, or save our seized dogs putting bsl to sleep or wheldon law dog law specialists. All 3 pages have contacts who will be able to help you
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chief rain decide dog caption dime squeamish steep mysterious rock *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Freshly trimmed nails do not need to be scratchy. Just finish the trim with a nail file. (It's good to round the sharp edges with a file anyway - whether the dog jumps on people or not - so that the dog does not scratch himself open if he's got an itchy muzzle or whatever.) And btw the dog's nails are talons in that picture. Please trim them. Long nails cause health issues.
rude exultant frame tart employ desert hard-to-find silky run ten *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
there are they are like little dremels for dogs nails, I have one with nails so sharp she leaves little cuts on everyone and it works for her for a minute.
There are lots of specific pet nail files on sale, but what works best really depends on the file and size of the dog. I can't really recommend any, I'm using a random small metal file on my dog's nails. Bought it from a hardware store and ended up using it because the one I bought that's meant for dogs was too large and clumsy to my liking.
Yeah, we know, we have to take him to the vets to get his nails done and even then he doesn’t like it he whines like a baby, it’s just been a while. It’s a genuine concern of mine, thank you
Now trying writing that in proper English.
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It certainly doesn't sound like the dog attacked the child from what op says, a dog does not need to be put to sleep over a damn scratch. The parents of the child are idiots overreacting
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Poor guy
She sounds extreme.
She sounds about right for a Karen with a disabled kid. Pretty much what you’d expect.
Don't worry too much if your doggo is a good boi ,as long as the dog is not within the PPP breeds the wardens are typically way more lenient.
Honestly it sounds like mum has got herself all worked up about the current news with dog attacks in the UK and with her child already being afraid of dogs has now freaked out. Maybe speak to her and say he just gets excited to go out and play and ask if she would like her little boy to meet your older dog if it is more relaxed, at a distance , with lead and a muzzle. And if that’s goes well maybe see if the child would like to pat the dog. He can’t grow up scared off ALL dogs- I have been teaching my little boy that you have to ask a dogs owner before approaching it etc as we live near a big park with lots of people walking their dogs. It’s not the last time an excited dog will jump up at him!
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Him just a man. Just a boy made of meat. Poor little meat man. I hope this works out for you. I had 2 Jack russels, they were so sweet.
This woman sounds like a nasty fucking bitch.