I had a question concerning self-defense in the case of a dog attack.

My wife and I belong to a hiking group, and as such we spend a fair amount of time hiking in different country venues in Berrien and Cass counties. On our last hike, our group was involved in a situation with a very aggressive large dog. Everything turned out alright this time, but it was doubtful until the end. I have my Michigan CPL and although I would never want to have to shoot a dog, I would do it to fend off an attack if necessary. Obviously, one has to be responsible for any bullets which leave my gun, and I take this very seriously. What kind of legal trouble would I likely get into if I had to take this action? And what should be done afterword in such a situation? For example, should I call 911 afterward, etc.?

P.S. I also carry pepper spray, but I do not really think it would completely deter an angry aggressive dog. (It would be better than nothing, I suppose.) Thanks for your help! Larry from Niles.

Larry, this is an excellent question. Self-defense of yourself or others is usually why people carry concealed pistols. This may be one of those cases. Deadly force may be used if you can justify imminent death, great bodily harm (loss of eye, eyesight, limb, paralysis), or sexual assault. I like your responsibility statement of worrying where the bullets are going once they leave your gun so you know warning shots are not recommended. I have personally used our chemical spray for aggressive dogs and slowly got back to my car without incident. It is a very good deterrent and distraction and you may want to try this before resorting to deadly force.

If you see where the dog came from, report this to animal control for further legal actions. Dog owners, if you have an aggressive animal, keep it confined or leashed. There are specific animal control laws concerning this.

This Saturday, August 9, 2014, the new Niles Bike Trail will have its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony. By the time of this printing, I will have held another Bike Safety Forum (Aug 6, 2014). Please read the information at the kiosks for safety information and trail rules.

August’s Do 1 Thing theme is “Get Involved”. Make your community stronger by getting trained and getting involved. It takes more than police, fire, and EMS to respond to a disaster. It takes people who are committed to neighborhoods, churches, schools, and volunteer organizations. When people are willing to work together for the good of others, communities are stronger.

People who are involved are the key to a disaster resilient community. They are willing and able to look out for themselves and others. A resilient community is one that can withstand a disaster and get back to normal quickly (even if normal isn’t the same as it was before). The next three weeks I will give Do 1 Thing tips to get involved.

PS: I received a call reference a communications tip from July. A citizen wanted to remind all that when your cable goes out (loss of power), you may lose phone service from your landline also. Thank you for that information.

 

Any questions or comments, contact me at TrooperRob53@Yahoo.Com or 269-683-4411.