Family dog attacks volunteer at SPCA

NEW ZEALAND -- The SPCA is reviewing its procedures around dogs after a volunteer was mauled by a "family" dog that had shown no hint of aggression until it attacked.

The experienced volunteer, known as Paula, was with the dog, a 5-year-old Border collie, and two smaller dogs in a pen last Friday when something caused the dog to attack.

"There were absolutely no indications of aggression or risk with this dog. We've reviewed all the history - from the moment it was dropped off and its journey in the SPCA - and, in fact, this dog showed no issues whatsoever," Auckland SPCA chief executive Christine Kalin said.

But then last week it attacked Paula, aged in her 40s, leaving her with several wounds on her legs and an arm.

Paula screamed and tried to push the dog off her but it kept biting her legs and her arm. After several bites the dog stopped and she was able to leave the pen, but "unfortunately the dog followed".

Staff and other volunteers rushed to help Paula, who was bleeding heavily from her wounds. The dog eventually let go and staff were able to secure it.

"Luckily, a lot of staff are trained in first aid. She was transferred to Middlemore (Hospital) and because they were open wounds she went to theatre the following day. She is now at home recovering."

Ms Kalin said: "First and foremost, SPCA Auckland sincerely regret this occurred ... Certainly for us, it's just not what we would want to happen to any staff or volunteer, but I guess with all animals there is an element of risk."

SPCA was now reviewing its procedures around dogs, although it may never be known what set the dog off.

The peer review is under way now, although Ms Kalin was confident it was a rare occurrence. She'd been told that in the past 30 years there had only been two other incidents at the SPCA where dog bites required more treatment than just first aid.

"So that shows you how rare it is."

Immediately after the attack volunteers were removed from working with adult dogs, but that is being gradually reinstated.

Ms Kalin had visited Paula in hospital.

"One of things she said to me was 'I hope I can come back to the SPCA."

The dog had been given to the SPCA on October 29 because its owner had to care for a sick relative. It was considered a "family dog".

"It had been vet checked, continually assessed by staff through its stay, and was de-sexed. Some would say certain breeds will be higher risk but this was a family dog that we had no hint at all of this dog having issues."

The dog was euthanised because public safety was paramount.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment said they were aware of the incident and were investigating.

(New Zealand Herald - Nov 15, 2013)