This past Monday (Apr. 17), a police officer shot a dog on Chicago’s South Side, according to CBS.
The shooting happened in the South Chicago neighborhood. There, two on-duty officers were in the 8300 block of South Luella Avenue when a dog came out of a home’s side door and lunged at one of the officers.
According to police, one of the officers then shot the dog. Unfortunately, one of the officers also suffered a laceration to the head. Additionally, police said the dog is now in good condition. Besides that, officials did not provide any further information regarding the shooting.
Dog shot in the Windy City
Although an aggressive dog can be a frightening sight, it’s shameful that police had to use lethal force to contain the situation. Especially in a city known for its loving dog owners, the incident is surely harrowing. Besides that, dog owners in Chicago already have enough to deal with, considering the city is still coming out of a canine vaccine shortage.
However, the unfortunate truth is that these moments happen all too often across the United States. In Philadelphia, Animal Control officers found a dog that had been shot multiple times and left on the side of the road. Thankfully, officials were able to give the dog critical care just in time to save her life. At the local SPCA chapter, the dog—named Alexia—had to receive an emergency blood transfusion among other vital healthcare.
And in Idaho, a Department of Fish and Game officer shot another dog for pursuing wild deer. Apparently, the officer was responding to an unrelated call when he saw two dogs chase down a fawn and kill it. Per Idaho law, people cannot let their dogs “harass, chase, and kill big game.” As a result, the officer was operating within the law.
Training your dog can save their life
Ultimately, these incidents underscore how important it is to train and socialize your dog well. Especially when they’re puppies, socializing can keep your dog growing into an anxious and reactive pet. Even if you’re thinking about getting a dog to protect your home, it’s imperative to train them to respond appropriately.
