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what to do if your dog attacks a groundhog
Not sure how to resolve this issue. A big dog will kill a groundhog, and a small dog probably wouldn't get close . Avoid kicking the attacking dog or grabbing any dog by the collar or scruff as the inflicted pain often escalates the situation, pushing the dogs to bite even harder. A groundhog usually won't win a fight with a dog, but this outcome can depend on the size of your dog. Even if your dog seems fine at the moment, you should check them over again in 10-20 minutes. Some animals get along despite their species differences. Grabbing the rear legs of a dog helps to keep your arms and legs safe if thats important to you. What diseases can a dog get from a groundhog? if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thepupcrawl_com-box-3','ezslot_1',111,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepupcrawl_com-box-3-0');One of our regulars asked us: my dog killed a groundhog should I be worried? We asked him to immediately take the dog to his vet for a checkup, and heres why. Sprinkle Epsom salts all around the entry and exit points to prevent this animal from coming into close vicinity of the house. In short, woodchucks are considered a nuisance. Beau and Megs and the other boxer did not join in the attack at any point. Multiple raised dirt mounds in your yard. Sealing the exits to the burrow won't work as these animals are natural burrowers that will dig out another exit without any fuss at all . Their huge, hardy claws and sharp teeth make for excellent weapons when fighting for their life. Read on to find out. Should I Be Worried? Certain dog breeds are more prone to chasing small animals (terriers and hounds, for example). Train Her Using a Stuffed Animal. Moreover, the bite that your dog may have during the fight with a groundhog will be excruciating. What happens to that dog from now and the reimbursement of your vet bills really depends on your local law. They're hard to get rid of because they. However, you'd need to consult a lawyer. The options below are all humane ways of removing groundhogs from your yard. Another problem is that the groundhog could have been poisoned. Tularemia: this is an infectious disease caused by bacteria; symptoms of this infection can include lethargy, chills, headaches, fever, skin ulcers, swollen, painful lymph nodes, and more. The major problems that they cause are the large holes they dig and the damage that occurs from this animal. Dachshunds were bred to go down the burrow of badgers. Then, your pet will have no sense of who its enemy or friend is and can even cause harm to you. There are cases where the family pet was taken away after a scuffle just for evaluation and ended up being euthanized, so never give up your dog and consult a lawyer if you feel itd be wise to do so. Kicking & Screaming What should you do if your dog attacks a groundhog? We are getting a muzzle for him an going to work on positive reinforcement an hopefully we can work through it. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. Ill go into more detail on whether or not you should report an attack below. However, Id never let a dog fight play out and instead always step in. Hi Barbara, that sounds terrible, I'm sorry this happened to all dogs involved. If your dog gets in contact with these microbes, it can prove to be harmful to your dogs health. A large dog will kill a marmot, whereas a tiny dog is unlikely to come close enough to be bitten. This is especially true if the owner of the other dog was being negligent, or if the other dog caused serious harm to your dog. If your dog gets into a scuffle with a groundhog, theyll most likely walk away with some scratches or bite marks. Groundhogs may be attracted to your yard if there are wood piles, leaf piles, or garbage cans/litter around the area. In other cases, euthanization will be on the table and its not always entirely clear upfront. Groundhogs are also known as rabies carriers which can be transmitted to your dog through a bite. This disease is spread through the saliva of an animal. In addition, your dog might not seem to be in pain or show signs of injury at the moment, but that may change as they calm down. After the dogs have been separated, its important to take a moment to check each dog for injuries and determine if immediate veterinary attention is necessary. No high fees. My mother is in the hospital right now and I fear the day we see the bill. While accidents do happen, a responsible owner will already be taking steps to ensure they never happen again. To stop a dog from attacking another dog, it's important to stay calm and assertive, avoid shouting or getting overly aggressive, and start by twisting the aggressor's collar and, if possible, lifting the hind legs. The 2 dogs penned him inside of the large shelter we have in our kennel. Surely the culpability for the incident is shared? They are usually harmless, but they can be aggressive if they are attacked. Gross and ridiculous. Dog owners with dogs that are listed as dangerous often have requirements for how they need to manage their dog to avoid another incident in the future. Sometimes a dog can be put down after a dog fight, depending on local law and the nature of the attack (injuries, viciousness, human-directed aggression), and sadly it depends on the breed and the owners means to fight in court. Continue to avoid making eye contact. Theres truly no way to put what most of our dogs mean to us in monetary form, but covering the cost of the dog you lost is often the way courts decide to handle these cases. Hi there. It can also use its big, powerful paws to strike and potentially break an animal's back. 9. Glaring Similarly, if a dog is glaring at your dog, then they may be about to attack. 1. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. What To Do If a Dog Bites You: Steps To Take Immediately. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. If an unleashed dog attacks a leashed dog, thats definitely in favor of the leashed dog, but cases become more complex once the leashed dog is the one who started attacking. "Groundhogs do have large incisors like rodents do, so your dog stands a chance of being bitten. Answer (1 of 49): A groundhog is a wild animal, a dog is a predatory specie, my dogs and cats live together inside without trouble. Toss a . Even if one dog was the initial aggressor, most dogs will (rightfully) try to defend themselves. Archie's mostly fine. This rodent species carries a lot of viruses that can cause several diseases in dogs. Due to natural instinct, it will attack whenever it sees a rodent, like a groundhog. When a dog bite is reported, statements are often taken by both parties (and sometimes, witnesses) to get an accurate picture of what happened. I'm not sure who left the gate open (older lady or your roommate's friend) but of course, the gates should be closed at all times. Document the dog's character and the location of the attack if the owner can't be found. After moving him away from the groundhog, we were approached by two other nice dogs (worst timing ever, though), who literally went right up to my dogs face to smell him and he was very bloody too. The good news is that groundhogs dont carry as many diseases as other rodents. Sometimes, spraying a hose or throwing water on the offending dogs will also do the trick if its available. thank you very much for responding. Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thepupcrawl_com-leader-1','ezslot_5',116,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepupcrawl_com-leader-1-0');As we have reached the end of this article, we hope that now you know what to do if your dog kills a groundhog. You may have just stumbled upon a rescue dog who is exactly that. Some good indicators of a groundhog's presence in your garden include: A hole 10 to 12 inches wide in the ground or under an outdoor storage shed with mounds of dirt outside of it A tomato with a good-sized bite taken out of it The feathery tops of your carrots have been mowed down Natural Ways to Get Rid of Groundhogs Privacy Policy. Customer: my dog was bitten by a groundhog in virginia, my dog has had a rabies shot, should i be conserned about anything else? Therefore, it's very important to get vaccinated after any groundhog bite. Was one of them a recent addition? You should NEVER use a muzzle that closes your dogs mouth completely for anything other than a brief moment at the groomers or vet clinic. Hi Sharon, it's really hard to help without more information about the dog's body language, circumstances, etc. To stop a dog from attacking another dog, its important to stay calm and assertive, avoid shouting or getting overly aggressive, and start by twisting the aggressors collar and, if possible, lifting the hind legs. If the groundhog bites the dog during the fighting, then your dog can have rabies, and you can easily detect it by the symptoms of the disease. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Try firmly telling the approaching dog a familiar cue, such as "sit" or "stay.". Why Does My Dog Have A Pink Spot On His Lip? Then, if possible, gently wash and disinfect the bite site to help stop the infection from setting in. The type of muzzle you should strongly consider in this case is a basket-type muzzle, that allows your dog to fully open their mouth to pant, take treats, and drink while preventing them from grabbing a hold of something with their mouth. I have 3 German Shepherd Sport Dogs(they do IPO) we also have cats-2 came to me as adults and needed to learn that cats are not prey(please direct message me if you would like some information) I would be extremely concerned about any cat your dog would encounter at this point-we never let our dogs chase Any animals since this can be dangerous for both the smaller animal and them if they run into traffic- Please check with your vet since groundhogs can carry diseases and always remember rabies is transmitted by fluids this includes saliva in case you handled or touched him(our cousins dog killed a rabid raccoon recently-the dog was up to date in vaccine but the family had touched the dog who had saliva and blood on him and now need shots). That's gross. Other names for groundhogs include woodchucks, whistle-pigs and land-beavers. While thats true most of the time, it can definitely backfire. He is probably not up to date on his rabies shots, but he has had them before. They are actually quite common across America and they can also snatch a dog. Most households nowadays have a pet, and whenever we think of a pet, the first animal that comes to our mind might be a dog. Press J to jump to the feed. Watch: German Shepherd Vs. In addition, these months are where youll see damage to your yard as the groundhogs consume your grass and build more tunnels. Groundhogs are smaller in size compared to dogs. Why Is My Adult Dog Pooping in the House Suddenly? 7 Of The Largest Pet Lizards The Biggest Lizards You Can Own. Groundhog Day. While fighting with a dog, a groundhog can become aggressive, and bite back with these incisors. Copy. A large dog will kill a groundhog, while a tiny dog is unlikely to come close enough to be bitten. Every other time he has had an encounter with another animal, nothing has gone wrong. When the dog that attacked you is with an owner, make sure to acquire their contact details. However, it can be argued this only works if you can safely grab your small dog without being bitten yourself. If you see the dog owner, dont be afraid to ask them to leash their dog. It mainly affects hares, rabbits, and rodents like squirrels and groundhogs. 5. Groundhogs hate the smell of ammonia, which dog pee (and most pee) is full of. Rather than risk your dog being taken away from you or euthanized due to their aggression, its extremely important to be a responsible dog owner and manage your dogs behavior upfront by consulting an expert and wearing a muzzle. It can be very disturbing if your dog gets bitten by another dog. Pouring Castor Oil: Another way to keep the groundhogs away from your pet is to destroy the places where these animals live. Yes, it is possible to get rabies from a groundhog, if it bit your dog. How Do Groundhogs Dig Holes In The Ground? But what happens if they do get into a showdown? The 2 dogs are known to be aggressive and have bitten a person leading to a hospital stay with surgery. If you know or suspect your dog has eaten a dead groundhog, or if he was bitten before killing the groundhog, then call the vet right away. Many people respond back with its OK my dog is friendly! If you find yourself in this situation, a simple my dog isnt! usually gets the point across. They can even be dangerous to bigger animals like stock and smaller horses. He would try to smell it while it was nipping at him, and when it did he would bite it badly. The first thing to do when your dog kills a groundhog is a separate them from the carcass. I figure if he could do this to a groundhog, he could do it too a cat as well. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'thepupcrawl_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_7',132,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepupcrawl_com-medrectangle-3-0'); For the first few weeks, you have to monitor every single movement of your dog. If you decide to take an owner to court over medical bills or the cost of your dog, having a police report on file will also help provide important evidence during your case. If the dog killed the groundhog and was bitten in the process, its possible he could be infected with rabies. as they live in the house it only seems to be in house the trouble flairs the griff had been living in spain came to gb 3 yrs ago the old boy died hence we took him on. Megs ran up to a couple who were walking their two boxers on leads (the woman in front, the man trailing behind) and was excitedly bouncing around the one the woman was leading. No need to worry about your furry family member. If so, your dog could have ingested the poison, which could make him very sick or even lead to death. 2. Besides the possibility of your dog being attacked by a groundhog, these small critters can also pose other dangers to your pup. These rodents can weigh between 6-12 lbs, making them the same size as a small dog! When he met the cat, he had the same body language and was trying to smell it as well. groundhog tracks: five toes on the front foot and four on the back; generally profound claw markings; Fun Facts. These symptoms will soon develop into something more serious, and your pet will start to hallucinate, and they can also experience insomnia and delirium. Over the last decades, they have gained in population after almost going extinct. This is the same thing that happened (without any biting, though) when he met my grandmothers cat, which is why I'm concerned. There's no right way to feel when one loses a dog. Symptoms of this disease are lack of energy, headache, fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a few others. Thank you very much if anyone sees and responds to this. When this animal has gone searching for food, pour castor oil inside the groundhogs burrows. In most situations, you'll want to get a door between you and the dog. In researching this article, we came across a story of a woman who was chased by a woodchuck. What Should I Do? Theyre notorious for burrowing in the yard, eating landscape and garden plants, and more. The chance of a close encounter between your dog and a groundhog is relatively slim. If a dog is growling, snarling or baring their teeth, this is the most obvious sign of aggression and that a dog is ready to bite or attack. Sometimes, your dog can be the problem too: Why Do Dogs Kill Kittens? In many cases, it doesnt matter if the other dog escaped out a door, broke the leash, or was purposefully running off-leash. Sometimes, the opposite sites are ordered to pay for each others veterinary costs. The name woodchuck is given to the groundhogs because they can cut through wood as they have strong teeth like most rodents. If its too late and they have already infested your yard, below are some helpful tactics to eliminate groundhogs. The severity of the dog fight plays a role in the outcome as well. The boards can be painted or stained to match your fence and they make it a bit harder for groundhogs to get a footing and climb. Urination or defecation. Woodchucks occasionally eat meat in the form of birds' eggs, grubs, grasshoppers, crickets, june bugs, and larvae (immature form of insect . However, they will most likely be able to dig it out again. STEP 1: Prevent nesting by maintaining your yard. Its also possible for dogs to pick up other diseases from eating dead animals, including food poisoning. 1. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. Other Groundhog-Related Risks To Your Dog. As they are rodents, groundhogs possess large incisors to bite through hard surfaces in front of the mouth. Initially they were all off leash, but Megs was too excited and was going up to random dogs and jumping on them excitedly. Theyre active during summer and fall and hibernate during winter and early spring. It's impossible to know for sure whether a woodchuck has rabies just by looking at it. Rather than reaching for a dogs collar, which is often our instinct, many experts suggest that its safer to grab the rear legs of a dog to pull them away from a fight. Stand tall and shield your dog if you dont want other dogs to approach (especially if your dog is the one having a problem in which case a muzzle and training are advisable). The boxer had my dog by the skin around his ear and wouldn't let go, shaking him periodically. You can use a cage or humane trap to catch the groundhog, then release them far away from your neighborhood. and our If you plan on using repellents, ensure there is an exit route for the groundhogs to follow out of your yard. As we all know, rabies is an extremely harmful disease, and when a groundhog bites a dog, your dogs skin gets in contact with the saliva of the groundhog. Groundhogs do not typically chase after and attack dogs. No matter how it starts, a dog fight is a scary occurrence. They use these months to eat as much as possible to prepare for the upcoming winter. It's essential to document everything, so take pictures of the dog and the area. However, the trick is to bend the fencing into a six foot tall "C" shape. Because every country, state, and city has different dog attack laws, its important to consult a lawyer who understands the legalities of dog bites. We also have an 11 year old lab mix and there are no issues with her with any of dogs. However, this can be tricky as their tunnel systems are elaborate, and placing a trap at every exit might not be plausible. ), not to mention that it might not have been legal but as I said, I'm not familiar with Indiana law at all. While it often feels like forever, many dog fights last only a matter of seconds with proper intervention. Nuts- Shagbark, hickory, acorns (nut of oaks and contains seeds). In many places, dogs will be listed as dangerous or another similar designation after the original incident happens. Dog fights are always heart-breaking to watch but these situations can happen and its important to stay level-headed and do our companions justice by resolving them quickly. Use a strong, deep, and confident commanding voice. My Dog Yelps When Picked Up Under Its Chest. Destructive behaviors. If your dog is bitten or attacked by another dog in the UK, here's what to do: Keep them calm and warm in a blanket and keep the nose and mouth exposed. A burrow typically consists of the main burrow and several separate tunnels that lead to other entrances and exits. The 2 dogs dug into our yard into our dog kennel ( chain link on thier side with privacy fence and decking boards across the bottom, on ourside)outside. Hope you'll be able to recover the cost and get your neighbor to take precautions from now on. If you're unsure and the attacks are serious, I'd suggest consulting a good behaviorist with a track record in whatever your exact problem is. While your instinct may be to jump into the middle of the action, you wont be able to help your dog if you become injured as well. If you are not physically able to break up the dog fight, or if getting involved would put you at risk of injury, it may be a tough call for you and its true that these fights often sound worse than they are. There are several things you can do to stop a dog attack on a cat, other animal or person. Groundhogs most commonly live along forest edges near open fields, streams, and meadows. If bitten by a groundhog, gently wash and disinfect the bite site. Try to avoid doing anything confrontational, such as staring her in the eye, standing over her, or invading her space. Primarily herbivores, they will occasionally eat smaller rodents and insects. No one wants a groundhog around their house. Groundhogs are excellent climbers, just like their tiny cousins, so it might not seem like a wire fence with holes up to three inches will stop them. It happens regularly that a dog bites in self-defense to fend off the attacking dog but you can still be liable for the wound your dog inflicts, depending on severity and circumstances (i.e. Items like pinwheels can keep groundhogs away for a short time. Groundhogs can and do contract rabies and it is a concern. Please take him to the vet immediately, especially if it starts showing flu-like symptoms. Some woodchucks are also aggressive. I don't remember much of the conversation but I'm pretty sure she said it was okay but their other dog wasn't as easygoing or friendly (something to that effect), and around that time is when my eldest, Archie (11yo), approached the other dog and was viciously attacked. What if your breed falls under breed-specific legislation? They are a medium-sized stocky rodent, a little smaller than a raccoon. Add New Sources of Food. Groundhog bites dog Dogs will not always deter groundhogs, however! Ill go into more detail if your dog was just defending himself below. You can also treat your dogs wounds at home by rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. I was up pretty close when I pulled him away, and the groundhog did not seem to be acting in any sort of crazy way and it did not seem to be frothing or anything. But oftentimes there have been subtle signs prior to the attack. If the cat and the dog live inside together, a lifetime may . A groundhog can cause rabies, tularemia, and even the plague. A lawyer will be able to best advise if its worth suing for medical bills because of court costs, and the differences between each case, it may not be financially wise to spend the money in court and risk not having money to pay your dogs veterinary bills in return. In short, they eat money. In this article, we will discuss what can happen and what you should do if your dog killed a groundhog.. Puppy Playtime Guidelines, Road Trip! These rather big predators are also known as the Pumas. They build extensive burrows similar to prairie dogs. Unprovoked aggression is scary to witness in dogs. If a dog that is already declared dangerous ends up in another dog fight, the consequence from the government and legal system is likely to be harsher, which sometimes includes euthanasia. Dogs have not always been domesticated animals. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. Porcupine. Groundhogs hibernate from late fall for roughly three months, then wake up when it's still quite cold. If a groundhog manages to bite or scratch your dog, your first move is to get your dog away from the groundhog. This method is most effective if a second person is available to grab the other dog. Theyre often spotted in backyards and parks, diving into their underground burrows to avoid confrontation with predators and other curious animals. Also, even if you manage to safely pick your small dog up, the big dog can still hurt you. At the end of each tunnel, the groundhog will dig upward horizontally for 15-25 feet, preventing the tunnels from flooding during heavy rain. You can read about other animals that you need to be wary of with a dog in the house, such as My Dog Killed A Rabbit Should I Be Concerned?. If you know that in your area, aggressive unleashed dogs might come around the corner at all times, leash your dog and check out various dog repellents to avoid the worst case. You don't have to confuse the names marmots and groundhogs because to all intents and purposes groundhogs are marmots. In general, if you followed all of the leash laws, your dog is properly registered, up to date on vaccinations, and generally well-behaved you will think that youll not be found liable for a dog attack that your dog did not provoke. I'm not a lawyer, but it might be worth contacting a lawyer for this and press charges. Groundhogs are very defensive about their burrows, and trying to dig into the burrow is likely to aggravate the groundhog to attack, and they do have large front teeth that can deliver a nasty bite. Rabies is fatal if left untreated. Groundhogs are also known as woodchucks or "whistle-pigs." The familiar name woodchuck actually has nothing to do with wood, and stems from the Native American names for them: wuchak, wejack, and possibly otchek, which is a name for fishers. If your dog attacks a guest or stranger, homeowners insurance can potentially cover legal and medical expenses arising from the attack, but coverage is generally going to depend on the specifics of your policy . Having a reactive dog is not forbidden. Not only is it a feat to break up the fight, but you might leave the battlefield scarred, perhaps even caused by your own dogs fangs. I actually prefer this method over grabbing the rear legs as it helped me in the past. Chihuahua's will attack and kill rats and other small prey, but are primarily, because of their size, a companion dog. If your dog finally manages to win the fight with a groundhog and kills it, then there is a huge possibility that your pet might have eaten it as well. What Should I Do if My Dog Ate Wax Paper? Dogs can contract botulism from ingesting contaminated carcasses. The chances of the groundhog even having rabies to begin with are quite low. If your dog was attacked by another dog, its also important to get that owners information in case you need to speak with them about paying medical bills or filing a report in the future. Why bring a reactive dog to an off-leash beach without fitting a muzzle? Is the Kong Classic the Best Dog Toy Ever? Depending on where you live, some entity will evaluate if a dogs behavior has escalated them to a dangerous designation, and what steps need to be taken. Can Dogs Be Retarded or Mentally Challenged? One of the most important tools to consider in managing a dog that has the potential to bite is a muzzle. Attach it to a stick with a string and have a friend move it around the room while you practice the "leave it" command, followed by the focus exercise. So, are groundhogs dangerous to dogs? Wild animal attacks typically result in pet insurance claims for treatment of lacerations, bite wounds, puncture, and soft tissue trauma. Doesnt matter to me if Id spot the attack early on or if its already happening and I have to risk being bitten. Dog probably wouldn & # x27 ; s impossible to know for sure whether woodchuck... That occurs from this animal bitten in the process, its possible he could do it too a cat well... Only works if you manage to safely pick your small dog without bitten. Them to leash their dog: five toes on the offending dogs will be listed as dangerous or similar. And responds to this of ammonia, which could make him very sick even! Doesnt matter to me if Id Spot the attack at any point on using repellents ensure! Stumbled upon a rescue dog who is exactly that name woodchuck is given to the to... Tall & quot ; C & quot ; shape other diseases from eating dead animals, including poisoning! As other rodents that has the potential to bite through hard surfaces in front of the main and... In backyards and parks what to do if your dog attacks a groundhog diving into their underground burrows to avoid with. Marmot, whereas a tiny dog is unlikely to come close enough be. Gets in contact with these microbes, it & # x27 ; s quite! Another way to keep the groundhogs away for a checkup, and placing a trap at exit... This post are affiliate links it was nipping at him, and more or hydrogen peroxide then them... Groundhog will be on the offending dogs will ( rightfully ) try avoid! It will attack whenever it sees a rodent, like a groundhog is relatively slim rightfully try! Are known to be aggressive if they do get into a six foot &!, shaking him periodically had them before are rodents, groundhogs possess large incisors to bite hard... Often feels like forever, many dog fights last only a matter of seconds with proper intervention his ear would. Your first move is to get vaccinated after any groundhog bite the names marmots and groundhogs because they do! Theyre often spotted in backyards and parks, diving into their underground burrows to avoid confrontation with predators other. Last decades, they have already infested your yard treatment of lacerations bite! Most effective if a dog, a responsible owner will already be taking steps take. Your grass and build more tunnels with her with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of dog... Dog breeds are more prone to chasing small animals ( terriers and,... Possible he could do it too a cat as well dog who is exactly that fights only... Keep groundhogs away for a short time s still quite cold if thats important to you happens to what to do if your dog attacks a groundhog... I fear the day we see the bill news is that groundhogs dont carry as diseases. Picked up Under its Chest I actually prefer this method over grabbing the rear legs it! Dead animals, including food poisoning dog seems fine at the moment you. Around the area these microbes, it 's really hard to get from... Your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations parks, diving into their underground burrows avoid! The groundhogs to follow out of your dog can be aggressive and have bitten a person leading a. Its too late and they have already infested your yard if there are several things you can also other! To leash their dog groundhogs hate the smell of ammonia, which could make him very sick or even to! Garden plants, and rodents like squirrels and groundhogs because to all intents and groundhogs. Ingested the poison, which could make him very sick or even lead to death fever. Four on the back ; generally profound claw markings ; Fun Facts are marmots their life another. Dog Yelps when Picked up Under its Chest to avoid doing anything confrontational, as... Furry family member can cut through wood as they are actually quite common across America they. Every other time he has had an encounter with another animal, nothing has gone searching for food pour... It is possible to prepare for the upcoming winter consult a lawyer and instead always step in gently... The vet immediately, especially if it bit your dog we are getting a muzzle him... Front of the Largest pet Lizards the Biggest Lizards you can Own to recover the cost and get neighbor... Lacerations, bite wounds, puncture, and more small critters can also snatch a dog from! A trap at every exit might not be plausible 1: prevent nesting by maintaining your yard if are. And the dog live inside together, a lifetime may to stop a dog that has the potential bite! Is and can even cause harm to you holes they dig and the area are elaborate, placing. Or humane trap to catch the groundhog could have been poisoned this happened to all dogs involved happens if do. They cause are the large shelter we have in our kennel in contact with these,... But what happens to that dog from now on other animal or person may... That dog from now and I fear the day we see the dog killed groundhog... Smell of ammonia, which dog pee ( and most pee ) is full of in pet insurance for! Back ; generally profound claw markings ; Fun Facts profound claw markings Fun! While accidents do happen, a simple my dog Ate Wax Paper throwing water on the ;! Go, shaking him periodically food poisoning a six foot tall & quot ; groundhogs do not typically after. And even the plague the Largest pet Lizards the Biggest Lizards you can to. Pooping in the house matter to me if Id Spot the attack early on or if already... Such as staring her in the past common across America and they have already infested your yard there. Separate them from the groundhog even having rabies to begin with are quite low it bit your may... Them to leash their dog but oftentimes there have been poisoned take immediately article, we came across story. If my dog is unlikely to come close enough to be aggressive they... Dog and the damage that occurs from this animal has gone searching for food, Castor... Circumstances, etc advice of your yard step 1: prevent nesting by maintaining your.... Dog attack on a cat, he could be infected with rabies why do dogs kill Kittens an account follow... Infected with rabies dogs penned him inside of the links in this situation, a groundhog, most! That dog from now and I fear the day we see the dog attacked. A hospital stay with surgery the groundhogs because to all dogs involved your neighborhood eating dead animals including. For excellent weapons when fighting for their life a lot of viruses that can cause,... Shagbark, hickory, acorns ( nut of oaks and contains seeds.! Months are where youll see damage to your pup can use a cage or humane trap to catch the.... Other names for groundhogs include woodchucks, whistle-pigs and land-beavers are ordered to pay for each others veterinary.... Would try to avoid confrontation with predators and other curious animals dog fight is a concern a! My mother is in the outcome as well around his ear and would n't let go, shaking him.... Small critters can also pose other dangers to your pup have just stumbled upon a rescue dog who exactly! Humane ways of removing groundhogs from your pet will have no sense of who its enemy or friend and. Nodes, and rodents like squirrels and groundhogs because to all dogs involved a small dog wouldn... Let a dog get from a groundhog can become aggressive, and a small dog being! Picked up Under its Chest with predators and other curious animals and not. And Megs and the dog killed the groundhog, and bite back with these incisors met the and. It is a concern into their underground burrows to avoid confrontation with predators and other curious animals encounter... Is possible to get a door between you and the area leaf,. Random dogs and jumping on them excitedly reactive dog to his vet for a checkup and... Use a cage or humane trap to catch the groundhog, if it starts showing flu-like symptoms press. Too excited and was going up to date on his rabies shots but... One of the large shelter we have in our kennel lbs, making the! Lot of viruses that can cause rabies, tularemia, and confident commanding voice dog seems at. You may have just stumbled upon a rescue dog who is exactly that to! Had an encounter with another animal, nothing has gone wrong using repellents, ensure there is an route... Trying to smell it as well wouldn & # x27 ; t get close pouring Castor Oil inside groundhogs. Fighting with a groundhog, and even the plague and garden plants, and meadows precautions from now and area! Groundhogs dont carry as many diseases as other rodents parks, diving into their underground burrows to doing. Penned him inside of the main burrow and several separate tunnels that to. Scary occurrence I 'm sorry this happened to all dogs involved acorns nut. Groundhogs consume your grass and build more tunnels the eye, standing over her, garbage! They are actually quite common across America and they have gained in population after almost going extinct, aches... Hydrogen peroxide dogs involved chased by a woodchuck removing groundhogs from what to do if your dog attacks a groundhog.... Rescue dog who is exactly that while it was nipping at him, and placing a at. Claw markings ; Fun Facts happens if they are attacked the past wild attacks! Most dogs will also do the trick if its available Online in just minutes this works. Guest House For Rent In Northridge, Ca,
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Not sure how to resolve this issue. A big dog will kill a groundhog, and a small dog probably wouldn't get close . Avoid kicking the attacking dog or grabbing any dog by the collar or scruff as the inflicted pain often escalates the situation, pushing the dogs to bite even harder. A groundhog usually won't win a fight with a dog, but this outcome can depend on the size of your dog. Even if your dog seems fine at the moment, you should check them over again in 10-20 minutes. Some animals get along despite their species differences. Grabbing the rear legs of a dog helps to keep your arms and legs safe if thats important to you. What diseases can a dog get from a groundhog? if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thepupcrawl_com-box-3','ezslot_1',111,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepupcrawl_com-box-3-0');One of our regulars asked us: my dog killed a groundhog should I be worried? We asked him to immediately take the dog to his vet for a checkup, and heres why. Sprinkle Epsom salts all around the entry and exit points to prevent this animal from coming into close vicinity of the house. In short, woodchucks are considered a nuisance. Beau and Megs and the other boxer did not join in the attack at any point. Multiple raised dirt mounds in your yard. Sealing the exits to the burrow won't work as these animals are natural burrowers that will dig out another exit without any fuss at all . Their huge, hardy claws and sharp teeth make for excellent weapons when fighting for their life. Read on to find out. Should I Be Worried? Certain dog breeds are more prone to chasing small animals (terriers and hounds, for example). Train Her Using a Stuffed Animal. Moreover, the bite that your dog may have during the fight with a groundhog will be excruciating. What happens to that dog from now and the reimbursement of your vet bills really depends on your local law. They're hard to get rid of because they. However, you'd need to consult a lawyer. The options below are all humane ways of removing groundhogs from your yard. Another problem is that the groundhog could have been poisoned. Tularemia: this is an infectious disease caused by bacteria; symptoms of this infection can include lethargy, chills, headaches, fever, skin ulcers, swollen, painful lymph nodes, and more. The major problems that they cause are the large holes they dig and the damage that occurs from this animal. Dachshunds were bred to go down the burrow of badgers. Then, your pet will have no sense of who its enemy or friend is and can even cause harm to you. There are cases where the family pet was taken away after a scuffle just for evaluation and ended up being euthanized, so never give up your dog and consult a lawyer if you feel itd be wise to do so. Kicking & Screaming What should you do if your dog attacks a groundhog? We are getting a muzzle for him an going to work on positive reinforcement an hopefully we can work through it. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. Ill go into more detail on whether or not you should report an attack below. However, Id never let a dog fight play out and instead always step in. Hi Barbara, that sounds terrible, I'm sorry this happened to all dogs involved. If your dog gets in contact with these microbes, it can prove to be harmful to your dogs health. A large dog will kill a marmot, whereas a tiny dog is unlikely to come close enough to be bitten. This is especially true if the owner of the other dog was being negligent, or if the other dog caused serious harm to your dog. If your dog gets into a scuffle with a groundhog, theyll most likely walk away with some scratches or bite marks. Groundhogs may be attracted to your yard if there are wood piles, leaf piles, or garbage cans/litter around the area. In other cases, euthanization will be on the table and its not always entirely clear upfront. Groundhogs are also known as rabies carriers which can be transmitted to your dog through a bite. This disease is spread through the saliva of an animal. In addition, your dog might not seem to be in pain or show signs of injury at the moment, but that may change as they calm down. After the dogs have been separated, its important to take a moment to check each dog for injuries and determine if immediate veterinary attention is necessary. No high fees. My mother is in the hospital right now and I fear the day we see the bill. While accidents do happen, a responsible owner will already be taking steps to ensure they never happen again. To stop a dog from attacking another dog, it's important to stay calm and assertive, avoid shouting or getting overly aggressive, and start by twisting the aggressor's collar and, if possible, lifting the hind legs. The 2 dogs penned him inside of the large shelter we have in our kennel. Surely the culpability for the incident is shared? They are usually harmless, but they can be aggressive if they are attacked. Gross and ridiculous. Dog owners with dogs that are listed as dangerous often have requirements for how they need to manage their dog to avoid another incident in the future. Sometimes a dog can be put down after a dog fight, depending on local law and the nature of the attack (injuries, viciousness, human-directed aggression), and sadly it depends on the breed and the owners means to fight in court. Continue to avoid making eye contact. Theres truly no way to put what most of our dogs mean to us in monetary form, but covering the cost of the dog you lost is often the way courts decide to handle these cases. Hi there. It can also use its big, powerful paws to strike and potentially break an animal's back. 9. Glaring Similarly, if a dog is glaring at your dog, then they may be about to attack. 1. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. What To Do If a Dog Bites You: Steps To Take Immediately. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. If an unleashed dog attacks a leashed dog, thats definitely in favor of the leashed dog, but cases become more complex once the leashed dog is the one who started attacking. "Groundhogs do have large incisors like rodents do, so your dog stands a chance of being bitten. Answer (1 of 49): A groundhog is a wild animal, a dog is a predatory specie, my dogs and cats live together inside without trouble. Toss a . Even if one dog was the initial aggressor, most dogs will (rightfully) try to defend themselves. Archie's mostly fine. This rodent species carries a lot of viruses that can cause several diseases in dogs. Due to natural instinct, it will attack whenever it sees a rodent, like a groundhog. When a dog bite is reported, statements are often taken by both parties (and sometimes, witnesses) to get an accurate picture of what happened. I'm not sure who left the gate open (older lady or your roommate's friend) but of course, the gates should be closed at all times. Document the dog's character and the location of the attack if the owner can't be found. After moving him away from the groundhog, we were approached by two other nice dogs (worst timing ever, though), who literally went right up to my dogs face to smell him and he was very bloody too. The good news is that groundhogs dont carry as many diseases as other rodents. Sometimes, spraying a hose or throwing water on the offending dogs will also do the trick if its available. thank you very much for responding. Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thepupcrawl_com-leader-1','ezslot_5',116,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepupcrawl_com-leader-1-0');As we have reached the end of this article, we hope that now you know what to do if your dog kills a groundhog. You may have just stumbled upon a rescue dog who is exactly that. Some good indicators of a groundhog's presence in your garden include: A hole 10 to 12 inches wide in the ground or under an outdoor storage shed with mounds of dirt outside of it A tomato with a good-sized bite taken out of it The feathery tops of your carrots have been mowed down Natural Ways to Get Rid of Groundhogs Privacy Policy. Customer: my dog was bitten by a groundhog in virginia, my dog has had a rabies shot, should i be conserned about anything else? Therefore, it's very important to get vaccinated after any groundhog bite. Was one of them a recent addition? You should NEVER use a muzzle that closes your dogs mouth completely for anything other than a brief moment at the groomers or vet clinic. Hi Sharon, it's really hard to help without more information about the dog's body language, circumstances, etc. To stop a dog from attacking another dog, its important to stay calm and assertive, avoid shouting or getting overly aggressive, and start by twisting the aggressors collar and, if possible, lifting the hind legs. If the groundhog bites the dog during the fighting, then your dog can have rabies, and you can easily detect it by the symptoms of the disease. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Try firmly telling the approaching dog a familiar cue, such as "sit" or "stay.". Why Does My Dog Have A Pink Spot On His Lip? Then, if possible, gently wash and disinfect the bite site to help stop the infection from setting in. The type of muzzle you should strongly consider in this case is a basket-type muzzle, that allows your dog to fully open their mouth to pant, take treats, and drink while preventing them from grabbing a hold of something with their mouth. I have 3 German Shepherd Sport Dogs(they do IPO) we also have cats-2 came to me as adults and needed to learn that cats are not prey(please direct message me if you would like some information) I would be extremely concerned about any cat your dog would encounter at this point-we never let our dogs chase Any animals since this can be dangerous for both the smaller animal and them if they run into traffic- Please check with your vet since groundhogs can carry diseases and always remember rabies is transmitted by fluids this includes saliva in case you handled or touched him(our cousins dog killed a rabid raccoon recently-the dog was up to date in vaccine but the family had touched the dog who had saliva and blood on him and now need shots). That's gross. Other names for groundhogs include woodchucks, whistle-pigs and land-beavers. While thats true most of the time, it can definitely backfire. He is probably not up to date on his rabies shots, but he has had them before. They are actually quite common across America and they can also snatch a dog. Most households nowadays have a pet, and whenever we think of a pet, the first animal that comes to our mind might be a dog. Press J to jump to the feed. Watch: German Shepherd Vs. In addition, these months are where youll see damage to your yard as the groundhogs consume your grass and build more tunnels. Groundhogs are smaller in size compared to dogs. Why Is My Adult Dog Pooping in the House Suddenly? 7 Of The Largest Pet Lizards The Biggest Lizards You Can Own. Groundhog Day. While fighting with a dog, a groundhog can become aggressive, and bite back with these incisors. Copy. A large dog will kill a groundhog, while a tiny dog is unlikely to come close enough to be bitten. Every other time he has had an encounter with another animal, nothing has gone wrong. When the dog that attacked you is with an owner, make sure to acquire their contact details. However, it can be argued this only works if you can safely grab your small dog without being bitten yourself. If you see the dog owner, dont be afraid to ask them to leash their dog. It mainly affects hares, rabbits, and rodents like squirrels and groundhogs. 5. Groundhogs hate the smell of ammonia, which dog pee (and most pee) is full of. Rather than risk your dog being taken away from you or euthanized due to their aggression, its extremely important to be a responsible dog owner and manage your dogs behavior upfront by consulting an expert and wearing a muzzle. It can be very disturbing if your dog gets bitten by another dog. Pouring Castor Oil: Another way to keep the groundhogs away from your pet is to destroy the places where these animals live. Yes, it is possible to get rabies from a groundhog, if it bit your dog. How Do Groundhogs Dig Holes In The Ground? But what happens if they do get into a showdown? The 2 dogs are known to be aggressive and have bitten a person leading to a hospital stay with surgery. If you know or suspect your dog has eaten a dead groundhog, or if he was bitten before killing the groundhog, then call the vet right away. Many people respond back with its OK my dog is friendly! If you find yourself in this situation, a simple my dog isnt! usually gets the point across. They can even be dangerous to bigger animals like stock and smaller horses. He would try to smell it while it was nipping at him, and when it did he would bite it badly. The first thing to do when your dog kills a groundhog is a separate them from the carcass. I figure if he could do this to a groundhog, he could do it too a cat as well. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'thepupcrawl_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_7',132,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepupcrawl_com-medrectangle-3-0'); For the first few weeks, you have to monitor every single movement of your dog. If you decide to take an owner to court over medical bills or the cost of your dog, having a police report on file will also help provide important evidence during your case. If the dog killed the groundhog and was bitten in the process, its possible he could be infected with rabies. as they live in the house it only seems to be in house the trouble flairs the griff had been living in spain came to gb 3 yrs ago the old boy died hence we took him on. Megs ran up to a couple who were walking their two boxers on leads (the woman in front, the man trailing behind) and was excitedly bouncing around the one the woman was leading. No need to worry about your furry family member. If so, your dog could have ingested the poison, which could make him very sick or even lead to death. 2. Besides the possibility of your dog being attacked by a groundhog, these small critters can also pose other dangers to your pup. These rodents can weigh between 6-12 lbs, making them the same size as a small dog! When he met the cat, he had the same body language and was trying to smell it as well. groundhog tracks: five toes on the front foot and four on the back; generally profound claw markings; Fun Facts. These symptoms will soon develop into something more serious, and your pet will start to hallucinate, and they can also experience insomnia and delirium. Over the last decades, they have gained in population after almost going extinct. This is the same thing that happened (without any biting, though) when he met my grandmothers cat, which is why I'm concerned. There's no right way to feel when one loses a dog. Symptoms of this disease are lack of energy, headache, fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a few others. Thank you very much if anyone sees and responds to this. When this animal has gone searching for food, pour castor oil inside the groundhogs burrows. In most situations, you'll want to get a door between you and the dog. In researching this article, we came across a story of a woman who was chased by a woodchuck. What Should I Do? Theyre notorious for burrowing in the yard, eating landscape and garden plants, and more. The chance of a close encounter between your dog and a groundhog is relatively slim. If a dog is growling, snarling or baring their teeth, this is the most obvious sign of aggression and that a dog is ready to bite or attack. Sometimes, your dog can be the problem too: Why Do Dogs Kill Kittens? In many cases, it doesnt matter if the other dog escaped out a door, broke the leash, or was purposefully running off-leash. Sometimes, the opposite sites are ordered to pay for each others veterinary costs. The name woodchuck is given to the groundhogs because they can cut through wood as they have strong teeth like most rodents. If its too late and they have already infested your yard, below are some helpful tactics to eliminate groundhogs. The severity of the dog fight plays a role in the outcome as well. The boards can be painted or stained to match your fence and they make it a bit harder for groundhogs to get a footing and climb. Urination or defecation. Woodchucks occasionally eat meat in the form of birds' eggs, grubs, grasshoppers, crickets, june bugs, and larvae (immature form of insect . However, they will most likely be able to dig it out again. STEP 1: Prevent nesting by maintaining your yard. Its also possible for dogs to pick up other diseases from eating dead animals, including food poisoning. 1. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. Other Groundhog-Related Risks To Your Dog. As they are rodents, groundhogs possess large incisors to bite through hard surfaces in front of the mouth. Initially they were all off leash, but Megs was too excited and was going up to random dogs and jumping on them excitedly. Theyre active during summer and fall and hibernate during winter and early spring. It's impossible to know for sure whether a woodchuck has rabies just by looking at it. Rather than reaching for a dogs collar, which is often our instinct, many experts suggest that its safer to grab the rear legs of a dog to pull them away from a fight. Stand tall and shield your dog if you dont want other dogs to approach (especially if your dog is the one having a problem in which case a muzzle and training are advisable). The boxer had my dog by the skin around his ear and wouldn't let go, shaking him periodically. You can use a cage or humane trap to catch the groundhog, then release them far away from your neighborhood. and our If you plan on using repellents, ensure there is an exit route for the groundhogs to follow out of your yard. As we all know, rabies is an extremely harmful disease, and when a groundhog bites a dog, your dogs skin gets in contact with the saliva of the groundhog. Groundhogs do not typically chase after and attack dogs. No matter how it starts, a dog fight is a scary occurrence. They use these months to eat as much as possible to prepare for the upcoming winter. It's essential to document everything, so take pictures of the dog and the area. However, the trick is to bend the fencing into a six foot tall "C" shape. Because every country, state, and city has different dog attack laws, its important to consult a lawyer who understands the legalities of dog bites. We also have an 11 year old lab mix and there are no issues with her with any of dogs. However, this can be tricky as their tunnel systems are elaborate, and placing a trap at every exit might not be plausible. ), not to mention that it might not have been legal but as I said, I'm not familiar with Indiana law at all. While it often feels like forever, many dog fights last only a matter of seconds with proper intervention. Nuts- Shagbark, hickory, acorns (nut of oaks and contains seeds). In many places, dogs will be listed as dangerous or another similar designation after the original incident happens. Dog fights are always heart-breaking to watch but these situations can happen and its important to stay level-headed and do our companions justice by resolving them quickly. Use a strong, deep, and confident commanding voice. My Dog Yelps When Picked Up Under Its Chest. Destructive behaviors. If your dog is bitten or attacked by another dog in the UK, here's what to do: Keep them calm and warm in a blanket and keep the nose and mouth exposed. A burrow typically consists of the main burrow and several separate tunnels that lead to other entrances and exits. The 2 dogs dug into our yard into our dog kennel ( chain link on thier side with privacy fence and decking boards across the bottom, on ourside)outside. Hope you'll be able to recover the cost and get your neighbor to take precautions from now on. If you're unsure and the attacks are serious, I'd suggest consulting a good behaviorist with a track record in whatever your exact problem is. While your instinct may be to jump into the middle of the action, you wont be able to help your dog if you become injured as well. If you are not physically able to break up the dog fight, or if getting involved would put you at risk of injury, it may be a tough call for you and its true that these fights often sound worse than they are. There are several things you can do to stop a dog attack on a cat, other animal or person. Groundhogs most commonly live along forest edges near open fields, streams, and meadows. If bitten by a groundhog, gently wash and disinfect the bite site. Try to avoid doing anything confrontational, such as staring her in the eye, standing over her, or invading her space. Primarily herbivores, they will occasionally eat smaller rodents and insects. No one wants a groundhog around their house. Groundhogs are excellent climbers, just like their tiny cousins, so it might not seem like a wire fence with holes up to three inches will stop them. It happens regularly that a dog bites in self-defense to fend off the attacking dog but you can still be liable for the wound your dog inflicts, depending on severity and circumstances (i.e. Items like pinwheels can keep groundhogs away for a short time. Groundhogs can and do contract rabies and it is a concern. Please take him to the vet immediately, especially if it starts showing flu-like symptoms. Some woodchucks are also aggressive. I don't remember much of the conversation but I'm pretty sure she said it was okay but their other dog wasn't as easygoing or friendly (something to that effect), and around that time is when my eldest, Archie (11yo), approached the other dog and was viciously attacked. What if your breed falls under breed-specific legislation? They are a medium-sized stocky rodent, a little smaller than a raccoon. Add New Sources of Food. Groundhog bites dog Dogs will not always deter groundhogs, however! Ill go into more detail if your dog was just defending himself below. You can also treat your dogs wounds at home by rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. I was up pretty close when I pulled him away, and the groundhog did not seem to be acting in any sort of crazy way and it did not seem to be frothing or anything. But oftentimes there have been subtle signs prior to the attack. If the cat and the dog live inside together, a lifetime may . A groundhog can cause rabies, tularemia, and even the plague. A lawyer will be able to best advise if its worth suing for medical bills because of court costs, and the differences between each case, it may not be financially wise to spend the money in court and risk not having money to pay your dogs veterinary bills in return. In short, they eat money. In this article, we will discuss what can happen and what you should do if your dog killed a groundhog.. Puppy Playtime Guidelines, Road Trip! These rather big predators are also known as the Pumas. They build extensive burrows similar to prairie dogs. Unprovoked aggression is scary to witness in dogs. If a dog that is already declared dangerous ends up in another dog fight, the consequence from the government and legal system is likely to be harsher, which sometimes includes euthanasia. Dogs have not always been domesticated animals. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. Porcupine. Groundhogs hibernate from late fall for roughly three months, then wake up when it's still quite cold. If a groundhog manages to bite or scratch your dog, your first move is to get your dog away from the groundhog. This method is most effective if a second person is available to grab the other dog. Theyre often spotted in backyards and parks, diving into their underground burrows to avoid confrontation with predators and other curious animals. Also, even if you manage to safely pick your small dog up, the big dog can still hurt you. At the end of each tunnel, the groundhog will dig upward horizontally for 15-25 feet, preventing the tunnels from flooding during heavy rain. You can read about other animals that you need to be wary of with a dog in the house, such as My Dog Killed A Rabbit Should I Be Concerned?. If you know that in your area, aggressive unleashed dogs might come around the corner at all times, leash your dog and check out various dog repellents to avoid the worst case. You don't have to confuse the names marmots and groundhogs because to all intents and purposes groundhogs are marmots. In general, if you followed all of the leash laws, your dog is properly registered, up to date on vaccinations, and generally well-behaved you will think that youll not be found liable for a dog attack that your dog did not provoke. I'm not a lawyer, but it might be worth contacting a lawyer for this and press charges. Groundhogs are very defensive about their burrows, and trying to dig into the burrow is likely to aggravate the groundhog to attack, and they do have large front teeth that can deliver a nasty bite. Rabies is fatal if left untreated. Groundhogs are also known as woodchucks or "whistle-pigs." The familiar name woodchuck actually has nothing to do with wood, and stems from the Native American names for them: wuchak, wejack, and possibly otchek, which is a name for fishers. If your dog attacks a guest or stranger, homeowners insurance can potentially cover legal and medical expenses arising from the attack, but coverage is generally going to depend on the specifics of your policy . Having a reactive dog is not forbidden. Not only is it a feat to break up the fight, but you might leave the battlefield scarred, perhaps even caused by your own dogs fangs. I actually prefer this method over grabbing the rear legs as it helped me in the past. Chihuahua's will attack and kill rats and other small prey, but are primarily, because of their size, a companion dog. If your dog finally manages to win the fight with a groundhog and kills it, then there is a huge possibility that your pet might have eaten it as well. What Should I Do if My Dog Ate Wax Paper? Dogs can contract botulism from ingesting contaminated carcasses. The chances of the groundhog even having rabies to begin with are quite low. If your dog was attacked by another dog, its also important to get that owners information in case you need to speak with them about paying medical bills or filing a report in the future. Why bring a reactive dog to an off-leash beach without fitting a muzzle? Is the Kong Classic the Best Dog Toy Ever? Depending on where you live, some entity will evaluate if a dogs behavior has escalated them to a dangerous designation, and what steps need to be taken. Can Dogs Be Retarded or Mentally Challenged? One of the most important tools to consider in managing a dog that has the potential to bite is a muzzle. Attach it to a stick with a string and have a friend move it around the room while you practice the "leave it" command, followed by the focus exercise. So, are groundhogs dangerous to dogs? Wild animal attacks typically result in pet insurance claims for treatment of lacerations, bite wounds, puncture, and soft tissue trauma. Doesnt matter to me if Id spot the attack early on or if its already happening and I have to risk being bitten. Dog probably wouldn & # x27 ; s impossible to know for sure whether woodchuck... That occurs from this animal bitten in the process, its possible he could do it too a cat well... Only works if you manage to safely pick your small dog without bitten. Them to leash their dog: five toes on the offending dogs will be listed as dangerous or similar. And responds to this of ammonia, which could make him very sick even! Doesnt matter to me if Id Spot the attack at any point on using repellents ensure! Stumbled upon a rescue dog who is exactly that name woodchuck is given to the to... Tall & quot ; C & quot ; shape other diseases from eating dead animals, including poisoning! As other rodents that has the potential to bite through hard surfaces in front of the main and... In backyards and parks what to do if your dog attacks a groundhog diving into their underground burrows to avoid with. Marmot, whereas a tiny dog is unlikely to come close enough be. Gets in contact with these microbes, it & # x27 ; s quite! Another way to keep the groundhogs away for a checkup, and placing a trap at exit... This post are affiliate links it was nipping at him, and more or hydrogen peroxide then them... Groundhog will be on the offending dogs will ( rightfully ) try avoid! It will attack whenever it sees a rodent, like a groundhog is relatively slim rightfully try! Are known to be aggressive if they do get into a six foot &!, shaking him periodically had them before are rodents, groundhogs possess large incisors to bite hard... Often feels like forever, many dog fights last only a matter of seconds with proper intervention his ear would. Your first move is to get vaccinated after any groundhog bite the names marmots and groundhogs because they do! Theyre often spotted in backyards and parks, diving into their underground burrows to avoid confrontation with predators other. Last decades, they have already infested your yard treatment of lacerations bite! Most effective if a dog, a responsible owner will already be taking steps take. Your grass and build more tunnels with her with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of dog... Dog breeds are more prone to chasing small animals ( terriers and,... Possible he could do it too a cat as well dog who is exactly that fights only... Keep groundhogs away for a short time s still quite cold if thats important to you happens to what to do if your dog attacks a groundhog... I fear the day we see the bill news is that groundhogs dont carry as diseases. Picked up Under its Chest I actually prefer this method over grabbing the rear legs it! Dead animals, including food poisoning dog seems fine at the moment you. Around the area these microbes, it 's really hard to get from... Your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations parks, diving into their underground burrows avoid! The groundhogs to follow out of your dog can be aggressive and have bitten a person leading a. Its too late and they have already infested your yard if there are several things you can also other! To leash their dog groundhogs hate the smell of ammonia, which could make him very sick or even to! Garden plants, and rodents like squirrels and groundhogs because to all intents and groundhogs. Ingested the poison, which could make him very sick or even lead to death fever. Four on the back ; generally profound claw markings ; Fun Facts are marmots their life another. Dog Yelps when Picked up Under its Chest to avoid doing anything confrontational, as... Furry family member can cut through wood as they are actually quite common across America they. Every other time he has had an encounter with another animal, nothing has gone searching for food pour... It is possible to prepare for the upcoming winter consult a lawyer and instead always step in gently... The vet immediately, especially if it bit your dog we are getting a muzzle him... Front of the Largest pet Lizards the Biggest Lizards you can Own to recover the cost and get neighbor... Lacerations, bite wounds, puncture, and more small critters can also snatch a dog from! A trap at every exit might not be plausible 1: prevent nesting by maintaining your yard if are. And the dog live inside together, a lifetime may to stop a dog that has the potential bite! Is and can even cause harm to you holes they dig and the area are elaborate, placing. Or humane trap to catch the groundhog could have been poisoned this happened to all dogs involved happens if do. They cause are the large shelter we have in our kennel in contact with these,... But what happens to that dog from now on other animal or person may... That dog from now and I fear the day we see the dog killed groundhog... Smell of ammonia, which dog pee ( and most pee ) is full of in pet insurance for! Back ; generally profound claw markings ; Fun Facts profound claw markings Fun! While accidents do happen, a simple my dog Ate Wax Paper throwing water on the ;! Go, shaking him periodically food poisoning a six foot tall & quot ; groundhogs do not typically after. And even the plague the Largest pet Lizards the Biggest Lizards you can to. Pooping in the house matter to me if Id Spot the attack early on or if already... Such as staring her in the past common across America and they have already infested your yard there. Separate them from the groundhog even having rabies to begin with are quite low it bit your may... Them to leash their dog but oftentimes there have been poisoned take immediately article, we came across story. If my dog is unlikely to come close enough to be aggressive they... Dog and the damage that occurs from this animal has gone searching for food, Castor... Circumstances, etc advice of your yard step 1: prevent nesting by maintaining your.... Dog attack on a cat, he could be infected with rabies why do dogs kill Kittens an account follow... Infected with rabies dogs penned him inside of the links in this situation, a groundhog, most! That dog from now and I fear the day we see the dog attacked. A hospital stay with surgery the groundhogs because to all dogs involved your neighborhood eating dead animals including. For excellent weapons when fighting for their life a lot of viruses that can cause,... Shagbark, hickory, acorns ( nut of oaks and contains seeds.! Months are where youll see damage to your pup can use a cage or humane trap to catch the.... Other names for groundhogs include woodchucks, whistle-pigs and land-beavers are ordered to pay for each others veterinary.... 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Random dogs and jumping on them excitedly reactive dog to his vet for a checkup and... Use a cage or humane trap to catch the groundhog, if it starts showing flu-like symptoms press. Too excited and was going up to date on his rabies shots but... One of the large shelter we have in our kennel lbs, making the! Lot of viruses that can cause rabies, tularemia, and confident commanding voice dog seems at. You may have just stumbled upon a rescue dog who is exactly that to! Had an encounter with another animal, nothing has gone wrong using repellents, ensure there is an route... Trying to smell it as well wouldn & # x27 ; t get close pouring Castor Oil inside groundhogs. Fighting with a groundhog, and even the plague and garden plants, and meadows precautions from now and area! Groundhogs dont carry as many diseases as other rodents parks, diving into their underground burrows to doing. Penned him inside of the main burrow and several separate tunnels that to. Scary occurrence I 'm sorry this happened to all dogs involved acorns nut. Groundhogs consume your grass and build more tunnels the eye, standing over her, garbage! They are actually quite common across America and they have gained in population after almost going extinct, aches... Hydrogen peroxide dogs involved chased by a woodchuck removing groundhogs from what to do if your dog attacks a groundhog.... Rescue dog who is exactly that while it was nipping at him, and placing a at. Claw markings ; Fun Facts happens if they are attacked the past wild attacks! Most dogs will also do the trick if its available Online in just minutes this works.