Upon arrival, the K-9 Handler secured his patrol dog in the patrol vehicle but lowered the window in order to summon the patrol dog if needed. While the deputy was assisting with the fight call, an unrestrained Pitt Bull charged the patrol vehicle attacked the patrol dog. The Pitt Bull jumped onto the patrol vehicle and bit the Sheriff’s K-9’s neck. Seeing this attack on his K-9 partner, the handler had no choice but to shoot the Pitt Bull in an effort to stop the attack and minimize further injury to the Sheriff’s K-9. A total of three shot were deployed and the Pitt Bull died at the scene.

The owner of the Pitt Bull was eventually identified and advised of the incident. The Sheriff’s K-9 received minor wounds from the attack and is expected to recover fully. At no time was the public placed in danger from the shooting of the Pitt Bull and all expended bullets were accounted for. The matter will be referred to the District Attorney’s Office for review and possible criminal charges against the owner of the Pitt Bull. This unfortunate event, says the El Dorado Sheriff’s Department that should serve as a reminder to all responsible dog owners to comply with the leash laws and exercise reasonable control over their pets.