Near death experience

By Matt Romania

On a seemingly ordinary morning in Darley, a man set out for a walk with his old dog, Snowy. What should have been a routine stroll turned into a traumatic ordeal that left both the man injured and Snowy fighting for his life.

“On that day, I was just walking Snowy along Tate Street, Darley, like any other day,” Dominic told The Moorabool News.

He recalls a person with their new dog, standing at the intersection of Dundas Street and Tate Street. This person reassured Dominic their dog was “very friendly” and trusting this advice, Dominic let Snowy approach.

In mere moments, the scene turned horrific.

“Before I knew it, the other dog had Snowy by the neck, and no matter what we did, he wouldn’t let go,” Dominic said.

“There was blood everywhere. It was the worst minute of my life.”

Trying to separate the dogs, Dominic sustained a bite on his middle finger.

As for the other person’s reaction? Dominic’s disappointment was evident.

“All they said to the dog was ‘naughty boy’, and she didn’t even offer an apology, help – or to even check on Snowy’s recovery.”

In the aftermath, Dominic made an emergency visit to a vet, fearing for Snowy’s life.

“I feared the worst because of the severity of his injuries, blood and how lifeless he looked,” he said.

The injuries were so dire that Snowy had to stay at the vet’s overnight, with concerns he might not make it to morning.

Dominic’s own injury also required immediate medical attention.

“The staff at the vet clinic helped tend to my wounded finger before I went to the doctor.”

After a procedure under anesthesia and a tetanus shot, Dominic’s hand began its healing journey, just as Snowy’s recovery had started at the vet.

While Dominic and Snowy continue their journey to healing, Dominic reflects on the resilience of his loyal companion.

“Snowy’s a tough little guy,” a relieved Dominic said.

The ordeal has not only tested their bond but has also underscored the responsibility of pet owners to avoid causing harm to others.

After an investigation into Snowy’s attack by Moorabool Shire Council, the other dog has been surrendered and the owner fined.