Dog Accidentally Shoots Owner in Memphis, Highlights Gun Safety Issues
A man in Memphis, Tennessee, was accidentally shot by his dog after it activated a loaded gun triggered by its paw while jumping on the bed. The man suffered a minor injury. This rare incident highlights the need for proper firearm safety measures, especially in homes with pets.
In Memphis, Tennessee, a man was unintentionally shot by his dog after the pet’s paw inadvertently activated the gun’s trigger while jumping on the bed. The incident occurred early Monday morning as the man lay sleeping next to his girlfriend. He sustained only a superficial injury to his left thigh and was treated at a hospital.
The dog involved, a one-year-old pit bull named Oreo, triggered the firearm by getting its paw stuck in the trigger guard. The specifics of the weapon, including its make and model, were not disclosed in the police report, which classified the event as an “accidental injury.”
While gun violence is common in the U.S., incidents where pets accidentally shoot humans remain infrequent. Similar cases reported previously include a German shepherd shooting a man in Kansas and a pit bull-Labrador mix injuring a man in Iowa.
According to local news, the victim’s girlfriend recounted her experience during the incident, stating that they were both asleep when the gun discharged unexpectedly. She described Oreo as an active and playful dog and advised others to prioritize safety measures like using trigger locks on firearms to prevent such accidents.
The incident involving a dog accidentally shooting its owner underscores the importance of firearm safety, particularly in homes with pets. Despite the rarity of such occurrences, they do raise concerns about responsible gun ownership and storage. Preventative measures like trigger locks can significantly reduce the risk of accidental discharges around pets and children.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
