my dog bit my baby.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

Hi all. I am a regular on the Bump but am using my AE to discuss this because it feels very sensitive. I could really use some unbiased perspective on this.

Plain and simple, my dog bit my baby on his face. It is not deep enough to need stitches, but it did break the skin and bleed. I took baby to the doctor's and he is on antibiotics now. Baby is ok.

What would you do with your dog if he did this? The dog has never bit before and is a very sweet. He is 6 years old and blind in one eye. If I'm being completely honest with myself, he is not the biggest fan of children but has never harmed anyone. He is also very protective of me and has lunged at my husband before but still, never actually bit.

The long version is it was a typical morning. I was on the couch drinking my coffee, baby was playing with his books on the floor, dog was laying on the side of the couch. I could see the baby. Suddenly I hear a yelp and I look at the baby and see the dog lunge at him, knock him over and literally stand on top of him with his muzzle against his face. I couldn't get up fast enough, it seemed, and I fell hard then scrambled up and kicked the dog off the baby. It was the quickest way to get the dog off and in a moment like this, I really wasn't thinking of anything but saving my baby. Immediately, I picked baby up and he was clearly in shock - stiff as a board, arms shaking, delayed crying. He finally cried after about 5-10 seconds and I could see the teeth imprints. The started bleeding shortly after the attack.

I am getting a lot of pressure from people I know to get rid of the dog and it makes me feel guilty that I am not fully in camp "get rid of dog." So here I am, trying to get more opinions because this has been so scary, sad and really overwhelming with conflicting emotions. Thank you all for reading and thanks in advanced for giving honest opinions.

TugboatSheila · June 2014

I am not in the "rehoming" pets camp either but when it comes to the safety of your child or even the mental well being of your pet I can't judge anyone that safely and respectfully rehomes their pet.

Unknown · June 2014

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DreadLoc · June 2014

how terrifying and heartbreaking.

if your home doesn't have the ability to keep the two in separate areas at all times, I'd say re-home.

Jills83 · June 2014

I am glad your baby is OK and I am sorry you have to make this decision. I love my dog very much and keep her despite allergy issues in my home, but if she bit one of my children I would re-home her.

Contact a vet or a local rescue to see if they have recommendations for a new owner. My brother and SIL are very active with their local rescue and also help to re-home pets in situations like this or when elderly pass/cannot take care of the pet anymore.

ILoveBoys · June 2014

I have had dogs since I was 10, and to me they are family. However, they are pets. So to me you have 2 choices:

1. Always keep the dog in a gated area unless your child is sleeping.
2. Re-home them to someone without kids or with MUCH older children, with vet recommendation and full disclosure.

If my dog did that she would be gone ASAP. Because as much as I truly love my dog, my kids come first. Especially since this bite seems unprovoked, I would worry it would happen again, and next time not be so small of an injury.
Hugs to you. This is a hard situation!

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

Sterling13 said:

Do you trust the dog around the baby? Can they be separated in your home?

I do not completely trust the dog, or any friends' dogs now, but I can't help being hopeful that I can keep them separated. I keep going back and forth, though, like is this fair to the dog? Is this fair to the baby?

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

uconnhuskie007 said:

I forgot to add, I'm so sorry that you are faced with this tough decision, and I'm glad your baby is ok.

Thank you. It is very tough for me.

theseaword · June 2014

I would rehome. Not only could something happen with your baby again ( worst case scenario), but your dog could bite someone else as well.

ILoveBoys · June 2014

Hootie&theBlowjob said:

Sterling13 said:

I do not completely trust the dog, or any friends' dogs now, but I can't help being hopeful that I can keep them separated. I keep going back and forth, though, like is this fair to the dog? Is this fair to the baby?

If you can truly keep them separated. My parents have pitbulls, always have. They are well trained dogs. But as my mom says, all dogs are unpredictable. They have ALWAYS kept the dogs and kids separate. Do the kids/dogs interact? Sure they do, now that they're a little older, and not for very long. Usually the dogs are crated or fenced in the run outside.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

lisajay09 said:

Is there a dog training school in your area that you could call and ask for their opinion and suggestion? They would know about dog temperaments the best. Maybe they could even evaluate the dog to check for aggression tendencies. I might try this (like ASAP) before getting rid of the dog immediately so at least I would know that I made the right decision. Of course my baby's safety would come first but I would need that "professional" opinion so I wouldn't feel so guilty giving the dog away. In the meantime I would keep the dog in another room or in a crate anytime I couldn't be right with my baby until I figured out what to do.

There might be a place like that. I will look into it. Regarding your last sentence, I was right there when it happened. It was just a normal day.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

peanutrach1 said:

I am sorry this happened - that is so scary. We have had our dog for 12 years, he is a jerk but a part of the family. I don't think I could ever re-home him unless it was directly to my parents as they are the only ones who would put up with his craziness. I am not sure of what your situation is...perhaps you have a relative or a friend who can take him. I would also consult with a vet and potentially a trainer before doing anything out of haste. In the meantime, I would make sure they are separated in different rooms or the dog is crated or muzzled when around your family.

This is exactly my (and my husband's) hope. My mom is a huge animal lover but she cannot take in another dog. I'm debating to post a vague status on FB with instructions to PM me if anyone is interested or knows of someone who might be, then disclose the incident upon PM.

minervacullen · June 2014

While I understand your hesitancy with this, I think your dog would do best in a new home.

Keeping him wouldn't be fair to anyone. The baby would no doubt be scared, the dog on defense, and you worried.

It's best all around. I'm glad baby is ok and you aren't trying to sugar coat what happened.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

MrsGiantPenis said:

I'm not really for rehoming dogs. Does the dog get enough exercise? Not just you let dog in back yard, but actual exercise? Would you be able to hire a dog trainer? Obviously from here on out baby and dog should never be left alone, or even allowed in close proximity. My dog has never been aggressive, but I don't let him and baby hang out to close. Just never know what could happen. Same with the cats. GL whatever you decide!

He is a mostly indoor dog but that is a good suggestion that I have thought about. My husband asks if a 6 year old dog can be trained. He (my husband) is very adamant about re-homing the dog, which makes this harder.

Unknown · June 2014

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BluepointToasted · June 2014

I think you would rest easier and the dog may very well be happier in a home without children. I'm sorry you have to deal with this.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

uconnhuskie007 said:

JP27 said:

I am not in the "rehoming" pets camp either but when it comes to the safety of your child or even the mental well being of your pet I can't judge anyone that safely and respectfully rehomes their pet.

That's the other part of this that I was feeling but didn't verbalize. It sounds like, from what you've said, your dog is anxious around kids. It's really not fair to the pup either to have to live in a situation that makes him feel that way constantly. As your child grows, at least through toddler-hood, his space is going to become even more invaded, and his patience tested.

This is basically where my husband is at. My baby can't even walk yet so we are questioning the future when he can chase the dog (who will probably be completely blind by then). Part of me feels stupid for ignoring the red flags (even when he was a puppy, he would shake around children). The other part of me still feels love because I raised him since he was born and he has always always always been at my heels.

studyinpink · June 2014

H's parents have an old dog that is now deaf. E was running and ended up tripping on her and the dog but her face and left a small scar.

We now totally separate but do you think the dog was somehow scared?

I would still get rid of the dog.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

uconnhuskie007 said:
To be honest, I don't think anyone who owns any dog should ever trust the dog alone with a baby

I've never left them or any dogs alone with the baby. This happened when I was literally right next to them.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

TwilightMV said:

I would rehome. Not only could something happen with your baby again ( worst case scenario), but your dog could bite someone else as well.

Good point. Then it would be up to the authorities which is not what I want for my dog's fate.

Unknown · June 2014

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ToastieSimons · June 2014

Do you have the type of home where you could separate baby and dog completely?

I couldn't imagine how you feel. I have 2 cats who thank goodness are so great with the kids. But if either of them ever hurt my kids I would be heartbroken. They're my babies too.

If you could separate baby and dog, say dog in kitchen with baby gates and you and baby in living room, etc then I would consider keeping the dog. But if you can't, I would have to rehome him.

You said he already lunged at your husband and has no offically bit the baby seemingly unprovoked. I'm sure the baby made a noise or the dog felt threatened, but it's not like the baby was climbing on top of him, sticking his fingers in his nose or anything. I just couldn't trust the dog anymore. I'm sure I would still be a ball of emotion and heartbroken to see him go but your human child does have priority over your pet child.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

uconnhuskie007 said:

Since it seems you are really unsure about how to proceed, have you considered consulting your vet? I'm not saying you should or shouldn't because I don't know if there are duty of care rules that vets need to abide by when an animal bites a child, and I'd fear him being put down, but maybe it's something for you to look into.

Maybe someone on here knows the nuances of reporting an animal bite to your vet. I just wonder if she/he can professionally guide your decision making process.

God, this must be so hard. i'm so so sorry.

I reported it to the pediatrician and I *thought* they were going to call Animal Control but they said it is different when it is your pet. If it were a stray or a neighbor's then they would have to report it. I'm assuming it's the same for the vet but just assuming.

secretsout · June 2014

I'm sorry you have to deal with this. I am a dog owner, and I love my dog. I know that re-homing is a touchy subject, but I think that the safety of your child has to come first.

I would have a hard time trusting my dog (as much as you can trust any dog) after what you've described and I think it would be too hard to be vigilant on a 24/7 basis in keeping them apart for several years. I would also be concerned about other children coming into my home as my child got older and had friends.

thebanich · June 2014

I would talk to your vet. If you know your dog isn't good with children you need to remove him from the situation.

This happened with my brother's dog (similar tempermant) and they had to have her euthanized.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

peanutrach1 said:
Yea, the more I think on this, it is not fair to either. Your dog is not very old and planning to keep them separated for years to come just sounds exhausting. I am sure your dog probably wouldn't like be separated from the family for extended periods of time, which means less attention and likely a poor quality of life. If you have an SO, has that person weighed in?

He is 100% for re-homing.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

LoisLayn23 said:

A dog that shows aggression like that needs to be euthanized.

Wow, that's tough to hear but I know it's something that comes to mind. Thank you for your honesty.

MAdams728 · June 2014

I used to work in rescue, extensively. Under no circumstances would we have EVER adopted out a dog with a known bite history. It's irresponsible, and a huge liability.

I love dogs. I think they all have value and deserve a good life. I think that many behavior cases can be trained, managed and work out well for all of the involved parties. That said, a dog that bites a baby has no place in this world. Euthanasia would be the only responsible option, from my perspective.

thebanich · June 2014

Please do not re-home the dog without professional input. The dog has shown he is aggressive. If you put him in someone else's home all you are doing is putting them in danger.

studyinpink · June 2014

WhoCanItBeNow said:

Hootie&theBlowjob said:

uconnhuskie007 said:

Since it seems you are really unsure about how to proceed, have you considered consulting your vet? I'm not saying you should or shouldn't because I don't know if there are duty of care rules that vets need to abide by when an animal bites a child, and I'd fear him being put down, but maybe it's something for you to look into.

Maybe someone on here knows the nuances of reporting an animal bite to your vet. I just wonder if she/he can professionally guide your decision making process.

God, this must be so hard. i'm so so sorry.

I reported it to the pediatrician and I *thought* they were going to call Animal Control but they said it is different when it is your pet. If it were a stray or a neighbor's then they would have to report it. I'm assuming it's the same for the vet but just assuming.

Bull.Shit.

We were also told that since it was a family/known dog to watch the dog and make sure no symptoms of
rabies from the dog.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

HilarityEnsued said:

I don't mean to be trite or flippant about your experience. It sounds really scary and I'm sure there is a great deal of emotions involved. It's probably really sad.

I'm also not someone that puts equal value on a dog and a child in my home. I knew, without reading this thread, what the responses would be from most of this board. So I wanted to offer up my different perspective. To me, a home life where I'm constantly having to corral a dog or keep the dog from being vicious with my kid sounds like total misery. I also don't think it provides the healthy "growing up with a dog" experience that many people are seeking.

I know. Please believe me when I say I know the severity of the circumstance. My baby is above all and in that moment, I could've killed the dog. It was one of the scariest moments, if not the scariest, of my life. I am probably just dealing with the heartbreak that comes along with knowing what the "right" thing to do is. It just feels like a lose-lose situation and of course I blame myself.

Rach7170 · June 2014

If this was just a nervous around kids dog, I would say work on re-homing . This isn't that simple though. You cannot re-home a dog that has shown aggression to an adult and a baby. It's irresponsible and if you are actually honest with the perspective homes that this dog would go to, they are not going to want him. He needs to be euthanized.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

uconnhuskie007 said:
Here's the thing. Let's say your vote wins, and you keep the dog (despite your obvious reservations). And lets say his anxiety gets worse, your kid becomes more "handsy" as he gets older, and the dog bites again only worse.

Is this worth not only your child's safety which is clearly at risk, but also your marriage?

We aren't fighting about it. I think he is mostly letting me work through it on my own. I don't feel good about anything in this situation. I don't really have a side. I wish I didn't have to make this decision.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

WhoCanItBeNow said:

I reported it to the pediatrician and I *thought* they were going to call Animal Control but they said it is different when it is your pet. If it were a stray or a neighbor's then they would have to report it. I'm assuming it's the same for the vet but just assuming.

Bull.Shit.

o.k. :-bd

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

MAdams728 said:

I used to work in rescue, extensively. Under no circumstances would we have EVER adopted out a dog with a known bite history. It's irresponsible, and a huge liability. I love dogs. I think they all have value and deserve a good life. I think that many behavior cases can be trained, managed and work out well for all of the involved parties. That said, a dog that bites a baby has no place in this world. Euthanasia would be the only responsible option, from my perspective.

What is done with a bite history dog? @MAdams728 Just preparing myself for the dog to die.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

BunkinMama said:

Yea I just talked to DH. After describing the situation, dog lunged at baby and bit in the face. That is more extreme then a bite at an outstreched hand, or a bite at an ankle. A bite towards the face or the neck is a death blow in dog mentality. In DH words, "That's a dead dog."

I know. I know in my heart and it must seem like such an easy situation to some but it is even surprising me how difficult a time I am having with this. I wanted to kill him, I did. I sent him flying across the kitchen with my kick so I really wasn't concerned in that moment of the dog's safety. Another telling sign, I know. I know I know I know I know.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

HilarityEnsued said:
being an adult sucks quite frequently.

ain't that the truth.

LucilleAustero · June 2014

The dog would be gone.

I love animals, but a dog biting my child is a no brainer.

Also, the dog went after a baby. Flash foward to when the baby becomes a toddler and chases the dog, grabs the dog, etc. Bad mix.

Pips09 · June 2014

I'm a huge dog lover, and our dogs are part of our family. Usually when I hear about a dog biting someone, my first thought is, what did that person do to the dog? Having said that, if my dog ever bit my baby, the dog would be out of my house ASAP. It's not safe or fair to anyone to keep the dog or child in that environment. A rescue or your vet may be able to help you find a home for the dog without children. If the evaluation shows that the aggression is ongoing and the dog won't be able to be placed, he will likely need to be put down. It sucks and is heartbreaking, but you have to put your child and family above your dog.

Hootie&theBlowjob · June 2014

@hilarityensued thanks. i know how you feel about the topic and i know deep down what it is right. maybe some people won't understand but the thought of sending my dog to the gas chambers isn't something pleasant to think about. still, being an adult, it is what it is. gotta make the tough calls.

i would never put my baby at risk. this was not intentional. since the incident, i have been a wreck with anxiety and fear and sadness. the dog has been nowhere near the baby and won't be.

sigh. just now my H went into the kitchen and left the gate open and the dog bolted towards me in the living room. i ran up and grabbed the baby and was actually scared. i know it is apparent and keeps getting more so that I know what to do with the dog.

I really appreciate all you're (collective) honesty and opinions. It really helped me sort out my thoughts.

RondackHiker · June 2014

Hootie&theBlowjob said:

What would you do with your dog if he did this? The dog has never bit before and is a very sweet. He is 6 years old and blind in one eye. If I'm being completely honest with myself, he is not the biggest fan of children but has never harmed anyone. He is also very protective of me and has lunged at my husband before but still, never actually bit.

The long version is it was a typical morning. I was on the couch drinking my coffee, baby was playing with his books on the floor, dog was laying on the side of the couch. I could see the baby. Suddenly I hear a yelp and I look at the baby and see the dog lunge at him, knock him over and literally stand on top of him with his muzzle against his face. I couldn't get up fast enough, it seemed, and I fell hard then scrambled up and kicked the dog off the baby. It was the quickest way to get the dog off and in a moment like this, I really wasn't thinking of anything but saving my baby. Immediately, I picked baby up and he was clearly in shock - stiff as a board, arms shaking, delayed crying. He finally cried after about 5-10 seconds and I could see the teeth imprints. The started bleeding shortly after the attack.

I bolded the red flag in your post and bolded and italicized the MAJOR red flags in your post.

Like PP, I've worked in rescue and am strongly against rehoming dogs with a bite history. The two times I've done it had extreme circumstances. One, a woman's new boyfriend "jokingly" snuck up behind her and tackled her while she walked the dog. He hadn't met the dog yet and when she screamed, dog bit once, not hard enough to break the skin, and then waited for commands. She picked boyfriend over dog. In the second, a child jumped off the back of the couch onto the sleeping dog who nipped, slightly breaking the skin, and then showed immediate regret. Neither dog is at risk for a repeat bite.

Your dog is.

Being protective of you and lunging at your husband? MASSIVE, MASSIVE red flag. I would not want a dog that is that overly protective of me, or any of my children, living in the house with my children. Your dog lunged at your husband. Unless your husband was actually seriously injuring you, lunging at someone the dog knows should never, ever happen. To be honest, I'd consider euthanasia for a dog in my care who lunged at one family member to defend another. That's just completely unreasonable and unacceptable escalation and I would be terrified baby would scream at me one day and the dog would feel the need to 'defend' me.

The second red flag? That attack. If the dog was uncomfortable with kids and your kid got up and stepped toward him and he nipped while fleeing, my answer would be to rehome or keep them seperated. He'd have been saying he was scared and only offering a warning nip as he fled. But to get up and lunge at the baby and knock the baby down and bite? NO. That's NOT okay. That's not a warning or a fear bite or a reaction to pain. THAT IS AN ATTACK. I've read it three times and unless you're leaving out that the baby approached and trapped the dog, THIS WAS AN ATTACK.

This dog has attacked twice, once causing injury. The injured party was a baby, which makes the attack worse.

This dog needs to be euthanized. I am SO so sorry. Get a babysitter, take your dog through the mcdonald's drive through and feed him hamburgers till he's nearly sick, and then take him to the vet and snuggle him while he passes.

This needs to happen ASAP. This dog is a ticking time bomb.

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