Report an Aggressive Animal

Information
Definition: Aggression is defined as threats or harmful actions directed toward another individual or animal. In animals, aggressive behaviors are a means of communication. Dogs and cats use aggressive displays, threats and attacks to resolve disputes.

Emergency: At anytime you feel in imminent danger by an aggressive animal or if you witness an animal attacking a person or animal, CALL 9-1-1 immediately. The police can respond faster and help assess the situation until Animal Services arrive.

Non-Emergency: If confronted by an aggressive animal but are not in immediate danger:

• Do not make eye contact. This is perceived as a challenge of dominance. Avert your eyes and stand still or slowly back away.
• Do not yell or throw things at the animal. This could make the situation even worse. Use a calm soothing voice to talk to the animal as you back away.
• Move slowly. A dog is more likely to calm down if there are no sudden movements.
• Do not turn away from the animal. If you turn your back to the animal, it is a sign of weakness. Continue facing the animal and slowly back away.
• Allow the animal an “out”. Many times, the animal is frightened and is looking for an escape. Do not corner, or get between the animal and the way out.
• Once you are safe, call and report the incident**. You will need to provide the following information:
  
  • Type of animal
  • Breed (if known)
  • Color
  • Sex (if known)
  • Location of animal
  • Your contact information
  • Owner of the animal information (if known)
  • Any witness contact information

*Animal Services will respond to each case on a priority basis.

Aggressive Behavior in Animals:
"Aggression" describes the behavior, but does not give any information about underlying motives or causes. Aggression can have multiple motivations:

• Dominance (status related)
• Possessive (food or toys)
• Protective and territorial (family and property)
• Predatory (the hunt)
• Fear induced
• Pain induced
• Parental (protective of litter)

The distance between the animal and the perceived threat can be influential in determining the animals response. This is often called the "flight" distance. If the intrusion is far away the animal may choose to flee, but if the intrusion is very close the animal may choose to fight. If flight is inhibited, as in a dog or cat that is cornered or tied up, aggression or fight is likely to occur.
Most dogs, and some cats, on their own territory are more likely to fight than retreat. When approached rapidly, a dog or cat may go through the stages of aggressive behavior very quickly and bite without the intruder being able to react. This happens in encounters between people and animals because they may approach too close, too fast. Dogs and cats that are mildly fearful may calm down if the intruder shows no fear, waits until the pet settles, and then offers a food reward. Avoid reaching for a dog or cat, while continuing to advance. This is most likely to lead to aggression. Standing still is often the best way to reduce aggression in the dog that is chasing.
For more information on Understanding Aggressive Behavior in Animals, see the link below

LINKS:

Department: Animal Services Website

Understanding Aggressive Behavior in Animals

Contact Information

OFFICE HOURS
Weekdays: Monday through Friday: 8 am - 6 pm
Weekends: Saturday: 12 pm - 4 pm

ADDRESS
401 N. Ash
Lubbock, Texas 79403

Map to Animal Services

NUMBERS
Phone Number: (806) 775-2057

Fax: (806) 775-3247