Safe From the Badge: What to Do With Your Dog When Police Arrive

When you’re in a situation that requires calling the police, your primary concern is often the immediate safety of yourself and others. But if you’re a dog owner, there’s an additional, sometimes overlooked, concern: the safety of your pet.

Tragically, there have been numerous incidents where family dogs have been shot by police officers during routine visits or emergency responses. These incidents are more common than you think. The recent shooting by a police officer of a Labrador Retriever mix in front of the owner and her children is the reason for this article. You can read the full story here.

These heartbreaking stories are more common than you think. According to the ASPCA,

“Police rarely receive any training that would allow them to rapidly and realistically assess the degree of danger posed by a dog; nor are they routinely informed about or trained to use any of the wide variety of non-lethal tools and techniques available to them as alternatives to shooting. Examples of such alternatives include batons, OC spray, Tasers and chemical capture. Most departments do not have relationships with area animal control agencies, humane societies or SPCAs that could provide training or assistance in responding to calls where dogs are known or suspected to be present.”

As the owner of two German Shepherds, it’s my constant worry as to what would happen should I need police assistance for an incident or personal injury. I submitted a citizen request to my City/Police Department asking what the police protocol is for responding to a residential call for assistance when dogs are present. I’ve yet to receive a response. Does that mean there is none? Or, are they formulating a response that will stand up against legal action from a citizen.

In a 2018 study from the University of New Hampshire Law Review, “More than Just Collateral Damage: Pet Shootings by Police” it’s estimated that 10,000 dogs are shot by police each year. And many believe that number is much higher “because most law enforcement agencies do not maintain accurate records of animal killings. The tally may be substantially higher, and some suggest it could reach six figures.”

The Study also found, “not every animal that police officers shoot is a large dog that may be more likely to pose a genuine risk to human safety—or even a dog at all. Police claiming a threat to human safety have shot puppies, Chihuahuas, Miniature Dachshunds, and domestic cats, among other pets.”

In the Forbes Advisor “Pet Ownership Statistics 2024” 66% of US households have pets; 65.1 million households own a dog. Given this reality, it’s essential for dog owners to take proactive steps to ensure their pets are safe during any interaction with law enforcement. Police officers are trained to respond quickly to potential threats, and in the heat of the moment, even the most gentle dog can be perceived as a danger. Whether it’s barking, running towards an officer, or simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time, a dog’s behavior can easily be misinterpreted, leading to disastrous outcomes.

The following guidelines can help you prepare and protect your dog if you ever find yourself needing police assistance.

1. Secure Your Dog Before Officers Arrive

If you know the police are on their way, the safest option is to secure your dog before they arrive. Place your dog in a room with a closed door, a crate, or a fenced backyard if possible. This prevents your dog from rushing to the door when officers arrive, which could be misinterpreted as aggressive behavior.

If you’re unable to secure your dog, consider asking a trusted neighbor or family member to assist. The key is to ensure that your dog is not in the immediate vicinity when the officers enter your home. If securing your dog isn’t an option, hold your dog on a short leash and keep them close to you until the situation is under control.

2. Clearly Communicate With Dispatchers and Officers

When you make the call to the police, whether for a break-in, domestic disturbance, or another emergency, be sure to mention that you have a dog on the property. Clearly describe your dog’s size, breed, and temperament, and inform the dispatcher where your dog will be secured when officers arrive. This information can be relayed to the responding officers, helping them to approach the situation with greater awareness.

When the police arrive, reiterate that you have a dog in the house. If your dog is loose or cannot be secured immediately, inform the officers and ask for a moment to handle your pet. This clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and give you time to ensure your dog is safe.

It’s also helpful to have a sign on your front door or window indicating that a dog is present in the home. This simple step can make a big difference in how officers handle the situation. I’ve had this sign in my front door transom windows for years, and have a similar sign hanging on the backyard fence. These signs can be customized by breed, and are available from this small business owner.

3. Stay Calm and Control the Situation

Dogs are incredibly perceptive and often pick up on their owners’ emotions. If you’re anxious, your dog is likely to become anxious as well, which could lead to unpredictable behavior. It’s crucial to remain as calm as possible during interactions with the police.

Speak to your dog in a soothing tone, and give them commands they’re familiar with, such as “sit” or “stay.” This can help keep your dog focused on you rather than the officers, reducing the risk of a sudden movement that could be perceived as a threat.

4. Train Your Dog for Emergency Situations

While it’s impossible to predict every scenario, training your dog basic commands like “stay,” “come,” and “quiet” can be invaluable in an emergency. If your dog knows how to respond to these commands, you’ll have more control over their behavior, which could prevent a tense situation from escalating.

Consider working with a professional dog trainer to reinforce these commands, especially if your dog has a tendency to be anxious around strangers. Regular training sessions can help your dog remain calm and responsive, even in stressful situations.

5. Know Your Legal Rights and Resources

Despite your best efforts, there may be situations where your dog’s safety is compromised. If your dog is injured or killed by police, it’s important to know your legal rights. Document everything related to the incident—take photos, gather witness statements, and request a copy of the police report. Many states have laws allowing you to seek compensation for the wrongful death of a pet, and some police departments have policies addressing these incidents.

Consider reaching out to animal rights organizations for support and advice. They can provide legal resources and may help you navigate the aftermath of a tragic encounter.

In Summary

No one wants to think about the possibility of their beloved dog being harmed, especially by those who are supposed to protect and serve. The relationship between police officers and the communities they serve is built on trust, but this trust can be shattered when a family dog is harmed during a routine visit.

By preparing your home, securing your dog, and communicating clearly with officers, you can reduce the risks and protect your pet from unnecessary harm. Remember, the best way to keep your dog safe is to be proactive—take steps now to ensure that an emergency call doesn’t turn deadly for your beloved companion.