Dog bit anchor; going home

http://www.9news.com/news/article/249501/222/Animal-shelter-Dog-who-bit-news-anchor-will-go-home


Here's a happy story in the news, even though it was born out of potential tragedy.
Max, an Argentine Mastiff, bit a news anchor, Kyle Dyer, when Dyer was interviewing the dog and the canine's owner. Max was trapped on an icy pond and his owner, a firefighter, risked his life to rescue the dog.
Max bit Dyer in the face during the interview. Per Denver regulations and policy, Max was quarantined at the animal shelter for 10-days, before being returned home to his owner.
Dyer received medical treatment and also was able to return home without issue.
The remarkable aspect of this incident is Ms. Dyer herself. When an animal attacks, with or without provocation, the reaction of the victim heavily sways the outcome of the animal's life. By choosing to be calm and not see herself as a victim, Dyer essentially saved Max's life. Good, bad, or indifferent, animal attack outcomes are typically left to subjective opinion. Had Dyer reacted strongly to this incident, she easily could've campaigned for and won the decision to have Max put down.
Instead of perpetuating the problem, and adding problem upon problem, Dyer and her news station went public to address the proper way of interacting with a new dog. The suggestions given by the animal behaviorist, Suzanne Hetts, indicate Dyer was partially responsible for Max's attack.
By putting her ego aside and considering what was important and what was right, Dyer was actually able to save the life of another living creature (and how Buddhist?!)


Footnote: Here are the 10 tips for interacting with a new dog, as featured on the 9NEWS show (courtesy of Hetts):
1. Let the dog come to you - don't reach for the dog
2. Keep your hands near your side
3. Avoid eye contact
4. Avoid facing the dog - turn the side of your body to the dog
5. Stand up straight or sit on the floor - don't lean over the dog
6. Keep your face away from the dog's face
7. No hugging or kissing unless you know the dog very well
8. Pet the dog under the chin
9. Limit speaking to the dog
10. Always watch the dog's body language