On Saturday night, a puppy was abducted from a woman in Washington, D.C. at gunpoint. The criminals attacked the woman and left her with several injuries before fleeing with the dog.
Woman attacked while seeking for stolen dog in Washington, D.C.
According to DC News Now, Zaleena Ahmed took her dog for a stroll near the Fort Totten metro station in Northeast D.C. on Saturday night. Someone approached her with a gun at 10 p.m. He insisted that she return her dog. She fought back. Then a second man appeared. The dog was snatched by one man, while the other man whacked her over the head with a revolver. Both men drove away from the scene in a black minivan. It appeared to be missing the driver’s side door handle.
Max, Ahmed’s dog, is a West Highland White Terrier. He is 14 years old and weighs about 25 pounds. Max was wearing a little blue coat at the time of the incident. As a senior dog, he requires “special care,” according to his dog mom. A prize is given for Max’s safe return.
The attack has been reported to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). An assault accusation is pending, according to DC News Now. The police department will provide additional details.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe on Nighttime Walks
When strolling at night, always take care to keep both you and your pet safe. First, stay to well-lit roads and known paths. Second, keep a torch in your pocket to illuminate your way and prevent potential predators. Third, keep your dog on a leash with just enough slack to allow you to stroll him comfortably. Fourth, avoid disclosing too much information about your dog on social media. Never provide personal information such as your exact location. Fifth, consider self-defense tools such as personal alarms or pepper spray to protect oneself in the event of an assault. Sixth, make that your pet is microchipped and has an ID tag with your contact information.
Finally, go with your gut impulses. If you suspect something is wrong, go to a well-populated area or alert local authorities. By taking these steps, you may take quiet nocturnal walks with your pet while reducing the chance of theft.
