In a harrowing incident, a Dover Township resident resorted to using lethal force to protect his cat from an attacking dog on Monday, as confirmed by the Northern York County Regional Police.
The altercation unfolded at approximately 4:45 p.m. in the 4500 block of West Canal Road, where a 2-year-old Alaskan malamute reportedly entered the property and initiated a pursuit of the resident’s cats. Distressed by the unfolding events, the pet owner promptly contacted the authorities, detailing the aggression displayed by the intruding dog.
While awaiting police intervention, the situation took a dire turn when the malamute allegedly attacked one of the cats, seizing it in its mouth and violently shaking it. Faced with the immediate threat to his pet, the resident responded by discharging multiple shots at the aggressive dog, effectively incapacitating it with several gunshot wounds.
Subsequent efforts by officers and the dog’s owner successfully located the wounded malamute in the 4400 block of West Canal Road. Urgently transported to a veterinarian, the dog succumbed to its injuries and tragically lost its life.
The cat’s owner, recounting the distressing encounter, informed the police that previous complaints about unrestrained dogs had been lodged, but this marked the first instance where an animal attack occurred.
Pennsylvania law, in such instances, permits individuals to use lethal force against a dog seen actively pursuing, wounding, or killing domestic animals, as well as attacking other dogs, cats, household pets, or even human beings, irrespective of the dog’s licensing status.
Law enforcement has clarified that no charges will be filed in connection with this case, recognizing the resident’s actions as a lawful response to protect his pet from a menacing attack. The incident sheds light on the complexities and legalities surrounding the use of force in safeguarding animals under threat in the state.
