City of Bluefield Animal Control reports two dog attacks since Labor Day

BLUEFIELD, WV (WVNS) – There was not one but two different dog attacks reported in the city of Bluefield between Labor Day and Tuesday September 10, 2024.

One was posted as a video to Facebook by The City of Bluefield. The city shared a video they received of an individual walking their dog and what appears to be three dogs attacking them. Nathanael Shumate, an animal control officer from the City of Bluefield, explained that this specific instance occurred on Oakhurst Avenue.

“The individual who was attacked was more than fine. When coming forward, he was not in trouble whatsoever. He was doing exactly what he needed to [do] to defend [himself] and his dog. He did not get bitten, nor did his dog, which we are very thankful for. However, it was obvious, you can see in this video, it was a very close call,” said Shumate.

Another dog attack was reported on Lewis Street in Bluefield. Shumate told 59News the victim reported four dogs came out of the woods to attack and bite her smaller dog. When the dog’s owner went to rescue her dog, she said the attacking dogs bit her as well.

Shumate offered some useful tips for what you can do when dogs attack.

“If you stand your ground as we have been saying, shout, scream at them, stomp your feet, do what you have to protect yourself and your property, obviously. Definitely do not run away,” said Shumate.

Shumate is unsure whether the two attacks are related, but they are investigating.

Shumate would like to remind people that dogs must be restrained within city limits, whether it be through training dogs to behave or keeping them on a leash. He highly recommended that people keep their dogs on a leash.

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