A senior German shepherd was shot and killed by a Hampton, Virginia, family after causing fatal injuries to a two-month-old baby. According to multiple sources, the eight-year-old dog attacked the infant early Monday while the baby slept in an electric swing next to her parents’ bed.
As reported by the Virginia-Pilot, the parents did not hear an attack, but felt their bed move during the night, presumably from the swing hitting their bed. The dog, named Lane, was described as a well-trained, “good dog,” who had never caused any problems.
The family’s neighbor, Ruben Pritchett, told the Pilot:
“He was a good dog. … No issues, no problem at all.”
He loved his dog — he was all about his dog. That hurt him as well as losing his daughter … I feel for him because I have grandkids myself, and several dogs. So I couldn’t imagine anything like that.”
The infant’s parents found her with injuries “consistent with a dog attack,” The police stated that it was not necessarily a mauling, but emphasized that babies of that are are very fragile.
The baby’s body was taken to the medical examiner and the investigation is ongoing, though there are no charges expected.
(Stock image of German shepherd/NOT the dog from this story)
Follow the National Animal News Facebook page for more news, updates and petitions.
Find JOY in the little things! Puppy paws, wet noses, wagging tails, snuggles and more. Choose your favorite color and style at this link.
More styles, and inspirational designs at our store – please click here to find them all! Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Thank you!
Share the message, we must Respect All Life!
Own your own one-of-a-kind design! All sales help support the continuation of our site. Pick your favorite color and style at this link.
I love paws! Please pick your favorite color and style at this link. Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Thank you!
The cutest friends you’ll ever see!
Karma is a b*tch. Choose kindness! Our unique design spreads an important message! Choose your favorite color and style at this link. Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Thank you!
Fight animal abuse! Donate Now
There is no us. There is no them. We are one! Purchase your one-of-a-kind mug at this link. Your purchase helps support the continuation of our site. Thank you!
I have lived with German Shepherds most of my adult life. I raised two babies with one, that dog would never have harmed a hair on their heads. Since they aren’t calling this a mauling, I would assume the baby was crying or making some noise that concerned the dog and Lane was probably trying to help. I don’t know how the parents are going to live with this. I find it hard to believe such an incident wouldn’t have woke them up.
I am in complete agreement with you.