In a bizarre and shocking incident, a pet dog in the U.S. accidentally shot its owner, leaving him injured while his girlfriend narrowly escaped harm. The unusual case has gained worldwide attention, highlighting the risks of keeping firearms unsecured.
How the Incident Happened
According to the police, the victim, a Memphis resident from Tennessee, was lying in bed with his girlfriend when the incident occurred. Their pet dog, Oreo, suddenly jumped onto the bed, and in the process, its paw accidentally landed on a loaded pistol kept nearby. The sudden pressure on the trigger caused the gun to discharge, with the bullet striking the owner in the thigh.
Emergency services were called immediately, and the injured man was rushed to the hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. Authorities have classified the case as an accident following an initial investigation.
Past Incidents of Pets Firing Guns
Though rare, similar incidents have occurred in the past. In 2023, a hunting rifle was accidentally fired by a German Shepherd in Kansas, resulting in the death of a 30-year-old man. Additionally, in 2018, a 51-year-old man was shot by his pet Pitbull-Labrador mix under similar circumstances.
The Debate on Gun Safety
This latest incident has reignited debates over firearm safety, particularly in the U.S., where gun ownership is widespread. Many experts argue that negligence in handling firearms can lead to unexpected tragedies, including accidental shootings by pets or children.
The victim’s girlfriend admitted that they should have engaged the pistol’s trigger lock to prevent such accidents. She described their dog Oreo as playful but emphasized that the mishap could have been avoided with better gun safety measures.
