For the past few months I have been walking my dog, and we have been attacked by dogs in the neighborhood. I want to know if I shoot them where do I stand. I’ve found (§ 822.012. Certain Dogs and Coyotes Prohibited From Running at Large) this saying I can but I want a little more info on the matter.
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My first thought is a “Field Goal Attempt” if it gets up and continues the attack I’m thinking drop it but then you get into the whole discharging a firearm within city limits thing. I haven’t had a dog issue but the Canadian Geese around here can get pretty aggressive and I may have heard that one or two got booted for attacking a jogger or dog walker or something.
Oh that reminds me has anyone got a good goose recipe?
Cheers,
Craig6
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IF you are in immediate danger (at the moment you draw) for your life or others, yes!
Otherwise, call Animal Control…
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you can always use the non lethal way buy using pepper spray into the dogs nose. That will stop them quickly.
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I went with the route @Philip7 suggested. In my case I was able to warn the neighbors multiple times. When the dog went after my son I used pepper spray and the dog hasn’t been out since. I found out through the neighborhood grapevine how mad they were because they had to bathe a dog that had been pepper sprayed and they too enjoyed the affects.
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I love the multiple options presented here. Is it a specific dog? If yes, does their owner know? If not, talk to the owner, if so, talk to the police - with video of the dogs actions.
Also, check out this thread: Self-defense against a dog, @CoonDockCountry. It may give you additional ideas.
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I’m glad some one asked this question. Because I was wondering myself. But I also think that you need to also know what the gun laws are in you state, county, city, or town are as well.
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@Dawn ι’νє talked with the neighbors plenty of times, this is now the 5th time this has happened, now resulting with me being bitten on my thumb. Side note: rabies shot burns.
@Craig6 its a pit bull mix. just a bit big to be a boot shiner. @Randall318 I have multiple reports into the animal control office and police department. Waiting on them to reply as we speak, will post reply for you guys. @Philip7 I will definitely pick some pepper spray up and give it very good go. Last try at being civil though.
There are a few that I was not there for No it was my wife that was having yo break up the fights, but for the most part I’m just tired of saying the same thing. Austin has a leash law and I seem to be the only one that follows it.
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Body cam or video the dogs actions on your phone? Might be helpful.
Ugh, I hate the fact that it’s a pit bull, they can be such great dogs. They have incredibly solid bodies and are tough dogs.
Hopefully the dog gets squared away and trained right before anyone gets seriously hurt…
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@Dawn really I don’t like the fact that is is a pit. I own three. None go outside without a leash, and they are lap dogs. Worse if you’re a female because they are getting in your lap. But yes I’ll have to buy a body cam for this now.
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Some bad behavior brings it’s own punishment. If they can’t keep the dog where he’s legally allowed to be, enjoying the side effects seems a useful lesson for them, not just the dog.
I always feel for the dog in these cases, not his fault the owners aren’t doing what they should. Glad he seems to have got the message.
@CoonDockCountry I hope the pepper spray works. Since you’ve been bitten, and are having to get shots, doesn’t the county step in? Lots of places I’ve lived if a dog is out and he bites, he’s in quarantine at animal control, and then likely going to be put down.
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@CoonDockCountry I’m thinking that you being a dignified gentleman about town might find a walking stick to be a well heeled addition to your wardrobe. Oh you might also want to become a fan of watching Hockey or o field hockey. I am given to understand the foot work required for a slap shot is very important.
Cheers,
Craig6
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Them attacking your dog. No. Your dog is property. Attacking you. Yes. If reasonable fear of life can be articulated.
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My county gives 2 chances. Course if you are so inclined, your lawyer only has to give 0 chances.
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Check local and state laws. In Illinois, if a dog attacks, and bites a human, you can use deadly force against it. I’d make absolutely sure you could articulate this was your ONLY option. If you have proof of a dog harassing farm livestock, you can shoot it on site for that. Again, make sure you have proof.
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Speaking as an Animal Control Officer, lots of bites occurs when someone is walking there dog and a stray comes and a fight begins. Dog owner gets bit trying to break it up.
I think everyone has the right to self defense if under immediate attack, however deadly force is a last option.
If you haven’t already, definitely contact your local Animal Control, always better if we can handle the problem if at all possible. Sometimes though you just have irresponsible owners, and I have found pepper spray to be a very effective non-lethal deterrent in these situations.
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@Zee as of yesterday animal control and the police showed up to evaluate the dog. They said it’s going to be quarantine but not put down
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Glad they’re doing something about it. With training for the dog and the owner, hopefully it will be able to live a long happy, friendly life! 
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