Raindrop Was Attacked
Posted on June 15th, 2009 by Cynthia D'Amour
My heart sunk.
James picked me up at the airport late last night.
- I had been going for five days.
- Facilitated ADA’s Leadership Institute.
- Very tired and dreaming of bed.
“I’ve got some bad news…”
- I clenched - who died or was sick?
- Mom? Dad? Raindrop?
- Whew! All were alive.
Then James told me Raindrop was attacked by another dog on Saturday.
- The dogs were friendly - then not.
- James and the other owner broke it up
- Thought both dogs were okay.
15 minutes later, James’ world tilted.
- Blood started flowing from Raindrop’s neck.
- She was hurt.
- He rushed Raindrop to the vet hospital.
Long story short, she’s okay.
- She got a puncture wound.
- A shaved neck and antibiotics.
- Nothing key was pierced.
My concern is her spirit.
- She’s still a bit scared and needy.
- She’s always had a bubbly personality.
- Will that come back?
Anyone know how to make Raindrop feel safe and heal her spirit?
Makes me think of chapter leaders…do you ask for advice when you need help?
Filed under: Adventures of Raindrop, Savvy Leadership
Oh no–how scary for you all. I’m sure with some extra affection from the two of you she’ll soon forget the whole thing. I’ve known dogs who’ve been the victims of abuse for prolonged periods of time recover their spirits; I’m sure Raindrop will be able to easily shake off this one incident since she has a lifetime of happy interactions diluting it.
Hate to hear about Raindrop’s bad encounter with the other dog. Make sure she heals and then reintroduce her to friendly dogs and other settings. Also, check out http://www.dogster.com and Patricia McConnell for advice. They’re the best. You also may want to consult a trainer in your area.
My late dog, Tomas, was attacked at doggy day care once. It never affected him because he was such a player. He lived to play with other dogs. However, I’ve heard horror stories about how one attack has permanently scarred the spirit of other dogs.
Good luck!
@Maggie - Thx. Since James didn’t tell me about this until late last night, I’m in the numb-thinking phase.
Raindrop was a rescue dog that no one wanted for six months in Indiana. On her way to be a lab dog when our rescue group got her. She’s come a long ways with us and I hope her faith in us helps her spring back like you say.
@Liz, thanks for your kind words and referrals. I’ll check them out. I think once her neck is healed a bit more she’s going on a trip to Grandma’s to play with Cousin Tootie - her best friend in the world - an adorable rat terrior.
Tomas sounds like he was a fab dog and brought a lot of people and dogs joy.