Seeing your dog attacked by another can be terrifying — and it’s more common than you might think. Whether you’re walking in Saltwell Park or letting your dog off-lead on a quiet trail, an unexpected encounter with an aggressive dog can leave both you and your pet shaken.

Here’s what to do immediately after an attack, how to handle the emotional aftermath, and how to keep your dog safe and supported through recovery.

⚠️ Step 1: Stay Calm and Get Your Dog to Safety

Do not try to pull dogs apart by grabbing collars — this can worsen injuries or cause bites to you. Instead:

Use loud noise or water to separate them Once safe, move to a neutral area and put your dog on lead if they aren’t already

🩺 Step 2: Check for Injuries

Even if your dog looks okay, adrenaline can mask pain. Check for:

Bite marks or bleeding (especially neck, legs, belly) Limping or stiff movement Whimpering or flinching when touched

Bites may appear minor but can cause deep tissue damage or infection. Always call your vet.

📞 Step 3: Call Your Vet

Describe what happened, your dog’s condition, and follow their advice. Your dog may need:

Wound cleaning Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory meds Pain relief Sedation for stress or deeper inspection

📷 Step 4: Document the Attack

If the attacking dog was off-lead or uncontrolled:

Take photos of injuries (if safe to do so) Note the time, location, and description of the other dog/owner If possible, get contact details or witnesses

You can report dangerous or out-of-control dogs to your local council or dog warden.

🧠 Step 5: Support Your Dog Emotionally After the Attack

Dog attacks often leave emotional trauma behind. Your dog may:

Be more fearful of other dogs Show aggression when on-lead Avoid walks or seem unusually nervous

This is normal behaviour after a traumatic event.

🐶 How Chrysidis Pet Care Supports Dogs After Trauma

As someone who specialises in anxious and rescue dogs, I understand how deep emotional wounds can go. If your dog has been attacked, I offer:

Calm, crate-free care in a quiet home Gentle introductions to other calm dogs (like my Labrador, Holy) Routine-based, one-on-one attention Trial sessions to rebuild trust at your dog’s pace

Many of the dogs I care for have faced fear, change, or trauma — and I work with patience, compassion, and consistency to help them recover.

🛡 Tips to Prevent Future Dog Attacks

Avoid off-lead areas if you’re unsure about other dogs Keep your dog close in high-traffic areas like parks Learn your dog’s stress signals and respect their boundaries Carry a pet-safe deterrent spray if needed

📣 Final Thought

A dog attack can shake your confidence — and your dog’s. But with the right care, your pet can heal physically and emotionally. Stay calm, seek vet care, and be gentle with your dog as they recover.

If your dog needs calm day care, one-on-one walks, or home boarding after a difficult experience, Chrysidis Pet Care is here to help.

Call or text 07891719588