Small Dog Faces Amputation After Attack By Pet Guarding Dead Owner

SHELTON, CT — A small dog was attacked by another dog who was protecting its owner who had just died from what appeared to be a medical emergency on a trail in Seymour on Thursday, according to police.

Now, there is a call for monetary donations after the dog suffered serious injuries. The dog was being treated in Shelton as of Thursday.

The incident occurred on a designated trail near Wakely Street in Seymour on July 16. Seymour Police Chief John Bucherati told Patch the man "had some sort of medical issue" and collapsed and died.

His dog remained in the area to protect him, and when another dog walker came by, that dog attacked the smaller dog, severely injuring it, Bucherati said, noting he expected to have more details on Friday.

State Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria (R-105), a Seymour resident, posted a call for help on Facebook on Thursday, as the injured dog was being treated at VCA Shoreline Veterinary Hospital in Shelton and likely facing emergency surgery, including a leg amputation.

Klarides-Ditria explained that an hour or two after the man collapsed, a resident out walking her small dog, named Squiggy, came upon the scene.

"As she called for help, the deceased owner's dog ran up and attacked Squiggy, causing devastating injuries," Klarides-Ditria wrote. "Animal Control and police responded immediately."

The owner's dog had been safely leashed while walking, but it was loose when the encounter occurred.

Klarides-Ditria said initial treatment costs for the injured dog are estimated between approximately $5,700 and $7,130, not including after-care.

"Squiggy's owner is understandably traumatized and now facing significant emergency vet bills," Klarides-Ditria said.

Donations can be made directly to VCA Shoreline Veterinary Hospital, 895 Bridgeport Ave., Shelton, CT, 06484; phone number: 203-929-8600.

Prospective donors should mention their donation is for Squiggy.

"This was a heartbreaking, no-fault tragedy that could have touched any of us," Klarides-Ditria wrote. "Please keep both families in your thoughts."