Kibkom North Cyprus Forum

This morning, as I do most mornings, I walk my small dog on leash around the park (Dr. Fazil Parki in Taşkınköy). It's a beautiful park and not far from my home. It provides me and my Chihuahua with an opportunity to get some daily exercise. And I never let my dog off her leash as I abide by the law for her protection as I am aware there are stray dogs everywhere in Cyprus.

This morning was different. Out of nowhere, we were attacked by a large German Shepherd. He knocked me to the ground after I attempted to pick up my dog and began shaking her like a ragdoll in the grip of his teeth. She was yelping, I was screaming for help and around and around we went on the sidewalk. It was a most horrible experience! If not for a man in a passing car who stopped to help us, my dog would have been killed. Many people came running to help, and with the aid of that 1 brave passerby, he was able to get a hold of the big dog, while I gathered my injured dog and fled to a nearby small market. A few moments later, the owner of the attacking dog appeared with a rope and walked off with him. He didn't bother to inquire on my condition, nor my dog's. A couple of older cypriot women came to me to console or try to help... but I don't know enough of the language to know what they were saying.

I will report this incident to the police, even though I know fully well they will do nothing about it other than to hear me out. I will report it not for my trauma or my little dog's injuries... but because I know aggressive dogs like this should NOT be allowed to be loose and the likelihood the next attack victim may be a small child playing in the park.

This incident is yet another example of why there must be laws against allowing dogs to roam freely. And laws that are ENFORCED. Unfortunately, I do believe before this is taken seriously - a small child will be savagely mauled or killed.

As for myself and my dog, no blood was lost, we're both just bruised and traumatised. We've lost our morning walks, I won't risk it again in any case. But it is a loss of freedom, and an enduring danger lurking out there for other small creatures and children that will continue to worry me.

As someone who has always had big dogs I certainly know of their strength and capabilities.
Also that people should not assume that smaller dogs (I'm not referring to your breed of dog) can also give nasty bites.
I myself was bitten by a dog (Labrador size) a few months ago. The owner was present and just shrugged his shoulders. My neighbour is Cypriot and I asked if they would basically talk to them as my Turkish isn't good enough. They said phone the belediye which we did.
Our experience with them was very good. They said that the police needed to know as my bite showed it wasn't a good dog. We went to the police station. The policeman said he was busy and would call to our house. About 3 hours later he did just that. Then went to the person's house with the dog. Told them that the dog shouldn't be roaming free and should it happen again then they would go to court.
Our experience with the police was good. I suggest that you do go.

I know of some one who got bitten by a cat and he called the police who attended and went to speak to the owner so I agree do let them know.

I hope your dog has recovered from her experience it must of been very frightening.

we had a border collie who got on well with people and other dogs his own size and above but for some reason if he saw a small dog as soon as it made a noise he just changed. Our vet at time just said he did not like small dogs therefore at all times we had to keep him on a lead in public places.