2nd Update: 1st Post: Our lab got attacked by a German Shepherd at the vet today
We have an older lab with arthritis that we take into the vet once a month for an arthritis shot. Mrs. BB61 got to the vet’s office a little early today, so she decided to wait outside in a grassy area to the side of the vet’s office until it was time for his appointment. While she was waiting, a couple came out with a large German Shepherd that was not muzzled and was only on a retractable leash. For whatever reason, the GS went nuts and took off running towards our lab and attacked him. While our lab tried to fight back, he was smaller and at his age and with arthritis, he’s not really prime anymore.
Our lab only had a couple of puncture wounds and some scratches that the veterinarian did not think they were serious. But at his age and health, it would be like an 80 year old man getting beat up by 20 year old gang banger. You’re not going to feel well even if you only need some stitches.
Before you all say, I would have shot the German Shepherd, I thought the same thing (I was at work). In retrospect, after hearing the story from Mrs. BB61, I’m not sure I would have had a clear or safe shot. I’m thinking a stick or pepper spray may be better for future visits in case something else happens.
It’s been a crappy couple of days and now this.
Update: He seems to be recovering just fine. Of course, the daughters have horribly spoiled him so that probably helped a lot too. LOL
Fortunately, the attack didn’t push him over the edge. Although, Mrs. BB61 was a little hesitant today. I went and was prepared.This message has been edited. Last edited by: BB61,
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May 07, 2026, 01:50 PM
newtoSig765
My Vet does not have any anti-gun stickers, I carry there, and I suspect they know it. ("Always carry, never tell.")
'Nuff said!
-------------------------- Every normal man must be tempted, at times, to spit on his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats. -- H L Mencken
I always prefer reality when I can figure out what it is. -- JALLEN 10/18/18
May 07, 2026, 01:53 PM
trapper189
Morons with the retractable leashes. It's bad enough when some yutz lets his yipper tangle its leash in my dog's legs, but having not having the means to control your large dog is, and I'm repeating myself, moronic.
I hope your dog recovers both physically and mentally.
May 07, 2026, 02:43 PM
konata88
I assume that GSD owners are paying for all bills and that the police have note about hostile behavior for their records (future reference in case of repeat occurrence). Maybe require some sort of obedience training?
"Wrong does not cease to be wrong because the majority share in it." L.Tolstoy "A government is just a body of people, usually, notably, ungoverned." Shepherd Book
May 07, 2026, 03:52 PM
12131
quote:
I assume that GSD owners are paying for all bills
My first thought.
Q
May 07, 2026, 06:15 PM
229DAK
Police report? Is that doable in a case like this?
_________________________________________________________________________ “A man’s treatment of a dog is no indication of the man’s nature, but his treatment of a cat is. It is the crucial test. None but the humane treat a cat well.” -- Mark Twain, 1902
May 07, 2026, 06:44 PM
BB61
^^^^^ Fortunately, the vet comped our bill plus the pain Rx and an antibiotic. I probably should talk with animal control. I’m still at work, so no time yet.
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May 07, 2026, 08:07 PM
229DAK
quote:
Originally posted by BB61: Fortunately, the vet comped our bill plus the pain Rx and an antibiotic. I probably should talk with animal control. I’m still at work, so no time yet.
Happened on the vet's property?
Talk with animal control - absolutely!
_________________________________________________________________________ “A man’s treatment of a dog is no indication of the man’s nature, but his treatment of a cat is. It is the crucial test. None but the humane treat a cat well.” -- Mark Twain, 1902
May 07, 2026, 10:54 PM
BB61
quote:
Originally posted by 229DAK:
quote:
Originally posted by BB61: Fortunately, the vet comped our bill plus the pain Rx and an antibiotic. I probably should talk with animal control. I’m still at work, so no time yet.
Happened on the vet's property?
Talk with animal control - absolutely!
^^^^ Yes. Just to the side of their entrance.
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May 07, 2026, 11:10 PM
sourdough44
Sorry about all that. I own an older German Shepherd, always kept her under control out in public. She is kinda barky, but has a clean record with biting.
Yes, the other owner should be on the hook for payment.
May 08, 2026, 05:55 AM
irreverent
And this is why business owners have to carry insurance.
Why the heck is a GSD on a retractable leash??
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"Trust, but verify."
May 08, 2026, 06:51 AM
mrapteam666
I hope your lab is okay That is why I am OCD and a basket case when I go to the vet.
I hate going to the vet and get there early to scope the parking lot, and the business.
I trust no one anymore and their pets. People are morons and they prove it every day.
After having an a few battles with the dog we tried to rescue, I am skittish and gun shy as I have ever been.
I have never ever worried about dogs but since those incidents. I plan every movement like I am defusing a bomb.
I got bit twice when I was running (once in Richmond and once in Durham) but never in Law enforcement.
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May 08, 2026, 11:35 AM
konata88
quote:
Originally posted by irreverent: And this is why business owners have to carry insurance.
Why the heck is a GSD on a retractable leash??
Some people are just too stupid to live. Why did the owners feel a retractable leash is appropriate for a vet visit? Under what conditions would the flexibility of the extending leash be warranted?
I would hazard a guess that the owners knew that GSD had a propensity to attack and bite. This could not have been the first instance unless it was new dog. If so, doubly stupid and they should get spanked.
ETA: owners need more training. i believe that no dog should attack unless commanded to do so by the owner.
"Wrong does not cease to be wrong because the majority share in it." L.Tolstoy "A government is just a body of people, usually, notably, ungoverned." Shepherd Book
May 08, 2026, 12:16 PM
mrapteam666
Why the heck is a GSD on a retractable leash??
While the other half was getting ready to head to Richmond for a funeral, she stated the exact same thing.
We have had big dogs: shepherds, husky mix, etc.. and we never, ever thought of using a retractable leash. Even when the nearest person was miles away.
And... As Konata88 states..
Some people are too stupid to live.. I will add.. Most should not be allowed to have animals or kids..
May 08, 2026, 12:48 PM
sig sailor
There are a lot of dog breeds, including GSDs, that get a bad rap that is undeserved. The real rap should be a rap upside the head of the dogs owners until they wake the hell up. (Rant off) Rod
"Do not approach a bull from the front, a horse from the rear, or a fool from any direction." John Deacon, Author
I asked myself if I was crazy, and we all said no.
May 08, 2026, 04:37 PM
flesheatingvirus
Sorry that happened. I would be PISSED, but at least the bills are covered. Retractable leashes are for lap dogs. Big dogs need something heftier.
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-- Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past me I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain. --
May 08, 2026, 10:16 PM
old rugged cross
Sorry to hear. Hope your pup heals up nicely. Things can happen. I am hyper aware at the vets office.
"Practice like you want to play in the game"
May 08, 2026, 10:29 PM
SigSAC
Maybe you should ask the vet office to have a policy that discourages retractable leashes.
May 09, 2026, 08:01 AM
Valpo Fz
Two things I hate on dogs are retractable leashes and harnesses! If you have done the training a harness may be fine. Our GSD, therapy dog, works in my wife’s office dog and my Dutchie/Mal will wear vests, but lead are always attached to a collar. Both dogs are off leash trained but we always leash in public because of other people and their dogs. My head is always on a swivel!
I hope your pup is ok, both physically and mentally.
" The people shall have a right to bear arms, for the defense of themselves and the State" Art 1 Sec 32 Indiana State Constitution