OM :: The Dog Bite

bad intentions, originally uploaded by gagilas.

While on vacation, Eli was bit by a dog. Its owner had left her dog outside a store to use the restroom. Eli walked out the door first and automatically reached out his hand to pet the dog.

Quick nip.
Long, ear-ringing wail.
Bloody finger.
Cowering dog.

It was not a serious bite. I think it only broke the skin because the little dog’s teeth hit Eli’s cuticle. But he wailed and wailed for at least five long minutes. I think it was a combination of a tiny bit of pain, some surprise and a breakdown of trust between himself and a dog. The people in the store must have thought his hand was severed and in the dog’s mouth. Eli’s got some lungs, man.

The owner came out and profusely apologized, saying her dog is afraid of children. We confirmed a recent rabies shot on the dog’s tag and left it at that. I did not yell or state the obvious that that kind of animal shouldn’t be left alone, off leash. Duh.

Later, in the car, the incident prompted a good discussion about asking for permission to pet an animal. Also, that some animals are rescued from hurtful situations and might be afraid of people, even cute little boys.

It was good reminder to all of us. If I had been first out of that door, I may have done the same thing.

OM is *one moment* and is a meetup designed to notice & relish a moment in everyday life. The meetup idea was created by Linda at her blog, a la mode stuff.

If you’d like to participate in OM, just click the button and you’ll be taken to Linda’s post explaining it all.