Handling Dangerous Dogs: From Less Lethal to Deadly Force

Jan 17, 2024

I’m writing this article because a church in Kansas had to shoot a dog at their church. I wrote about this in the Church Crime Watch a few weeks ago. I’ve had to deal with dangerous dogs for 30 years and I want to impart some knowledge to you in case you encounter the same situation.

Overview of Canine Behavior

Understanding canine behavior is an essential skill for church security personnel. Dogs, as social animals, communicate a great deal through their behavior, and being able to interpret these signals correctly is crucial in preventing and managing potentially dangerous situations. It's important to recognize that not all dogs pose a threat, and an accurate understanding of canine behavior can help differentiate between a dog who is merely curious or defensive and one that is genuinely aggressive.

Handling Dangerous Dogs: From Less Lethal to Deadly Force

Many factors influence dog behavior, including breed characteristics, past experiences, and current circumstances. Security teams should be aware of the common behaviors exhibited by dogs and the context in which they occur. For instance, a wagging tail does not always signify friendliness; paired with certain other body language, it could indicate agitation. Understanding these nuances is key to interpreting a dog's intentions accurately.

Recognizing Signs of Aggression, Fear, and Territorial Behavior

Recognizing and understanding the signs of aggression, fear, and territorial behavior in dogs are vital for church security teams. Aggressive behavior in dogs can manifest as growling, baring teeth, stiff body posture, and focused, intense staring. These behaviors are often accompanied by a raised tail and ears. It's crucial to understand that aggression can stem from fear or territorial instincts and may not always be directed at humans.

Fearful dogs, on the other hand, might exhibit behaviors like cowering, tucking their tail, flattened ears, and avoiding eye contact. Fear can lead to unpredictable responses, including defensive aggression. Security personnel should approach fearful dogs with caution, recognizing that fear can escalate into a dangerous situation.

Territorial behavior is another key aspect to be aware of. Dogs may exhibit territorial aggression when they feel their space is being invaded. This can occur in familiar environments like their owner's vehicle, near their home, or even at a church they frequently visit. Signs of territorial behavior include barking, lunging, and body blocking. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for security personnel to assess and respond appropriately to potential threats.

Assessing Threat Levels

Differentiating between Real and Perceived Threats

When assessing threat levels posed by dogs, it's important for church security personnel to differentiate between real and perceived threats. Not all dogs that bark or growl are a genuine threat. Sometimes, these behaviors are a dog's way of communicating discomfort or uncertainty. Misinterpreting these signals can lead to unnecessary escalation and potential harm to both the dog and humans involved.

Determining the threat level requires careful observation of the dog's body language in context. For instance, a dog barking from a distance or with a relaxed body might simply be alerting or communicating, as opposed to a dog displaying stiff body posture and intense staring, which may indicate a more serious threat.

Role of Body Language in Gauging a Dog's Intentions

The role of body language in understanding a dog's intentions cannot be overstated. Dogs communicate much of their emotional state and intentions through physical cues. These cues include the position and movement of their ears, tail, body posture, and facial expressions. For example, a relaxed dog may have a soft gaze, a gently wagging tail, and a relaxed posture, while a tense dog might have a rigid stance, ears pinned back, and may expose its teeth.

Security personnel should learn to interpret these cues accurately to respond appropriately. For example, a dog that is slowly wagging its tail while maintaining a stiff body and intense eye contact might be signaling a warning rather than a friendly gesture. On the other hand, a dog that is panting lightly with a relaxed body and soft eyes is likely displaying a calm and non-threatening demeanor.

By understanding and interpreting these various behavioral signals, church security teams can make informed decisions about the level of threat a dog poses and choose the most appropriate course of action. This knowledge not only enhances the safety of churchgoers and staff but also contributes to the humane treatment of the animals they may encounter.

Strategies for De-escalation and Non-Lethal Responses

Preventive Measures

In the realm of church security, taking proactive steps to avoid confrontations with dogs is paramount. Preventive strategies not only ensure the safety of church members and visitors but also minimize the risk to the animals. A key aspect of prevention is awareness of the environment. Security personnel should be vigilant about the presence of dogs on church grounds, especially during large gatherings or events.

One effective strategy is to create physical barriers. Simple measures like closing gates or using temporary fencing can prevent dogs from entering areas with high foot traffic. Additionally, clear signage indicating areas that are off-limits to pets can be a helpful deterrent. In situations where dogs are allowed on church premises, designated pet-friendly zones can keep them away from crowded or sensitive areas.

Effective Use of Barriers and Non-Physical Deterrents

The use of non-physical deterrents is a crucial aspect of preventing negative encounters with dogs. These can include auditory deterrents like ultrasonic devices, which emit a sound unpleasant to dogs but typically inaudible to humans. Visual deterrents, such as flashing lights, can also be effective in some situations.

Training church staff and volunteers in basic dog behavior and avoidance techniques is equally important. This includes teaching them to avoid direct eye contact with a dog, which can be perceived as a challenge, and to never approach an unfamiliar dog, especially one that is confined or appears to be guarding something. Such knowledge can prevent many confrontations from occurring in the first place.

Non-Lethal Tools and Techniques

Use of Tools Like Pepper Spray, Noise Devices

In cases where a dog poses a potential threat and preventive measures are insufficient, church security teams may need to resort to non-lethal tools. Options like pepper spray or noise devices can be effective in deterring an aggressive dog without causing long-term harm. Pepper spray, in particular, can be a useful tool due to its ability to stop a dog from a distance, thus protecting the user from harm. If pepper spray isn’t available, CO2 fire extinguishers work well.

However, the use of such tools requires proper training. Security personnel should be trained not only in the mechanics of using these devices but also in decision-making regarding when and how to use them. This training should cover the range and effectiveness of the tools, as well as safety measures to prevent accidental harm to people and other animals nearby.

Legal and Ethical Considerations of Non-Lethal Force

The use of non-lethal force against dogs is not just a matter of practicality but also of legal and ethical considerations. Church security teams must be aware of local laws and regulations regarding animal control and the use of force. This includes understanding the circumstances under which non-lethal force is justified and the potential legal ramifications of their actions.

Ethically, there is a responsibility to use the least amount of force necessary to resolve a situation. This means that non-lethal options should always be considered first, with an emphasis on the well-being of both the animal and the humans involved. Training in ethical decision-making, alongside legal guidelines, ensures that church security teams are prepared to handle dog encounters responsibly and compassionately.

When and How to Use Lethal Force

Legal Framework and Guidelines

When considering the use of lethal force against animals, particularly in a church setting, it's crucial to have a thorough understanding of the legal framework governing such actions. Each state has specific laws and regulations regarding the use of lethal force against animals, which often hinge on the concept of reasonable threat to human life or severe property damage. Church security personnel must be well-versed in these laws to ensure compliance and avoid legal repercussions.

Since this newsletter is specifically made for my team in Idaho, the legal framework for dealing with dangerous or at-risk dogs is outlined in various Idaho statutes. Specifically, Idaho Code Section 25-2810 defines "dangerous dogs" as those that have, without justified provocation, inflicted serious injury on a person or have been previously found to be at risk and then bite or physically attack a person without justified provocation. This section also outlines conditions under which a dog may not be considered dangerous or at-risk, such as when the dog is protecting a person from an attack or the person was committing a crime on the property of the dog's owner.

Additionally, Idaho Code Section 25-2806 states that any person who finds a dog not on the owner's premises and is worrying, wounding, or killing livestock or poultry can, at the time of finding the dog in such activity, kill the dog without facing legal action from the dog's owner.

It's important to note that these laws are subject to interpretation and should be understood in the context of each specific situation. The use of force, especially lethal force, against animals is a serious matter and should be considered only when absolutely necessary and in accordance with local laws and regulations.

Ethical considerations are equally important. The decision to use lethal force on an animal, especially a dog, can significantly impact public perception of the church and its security team. It's essential to weigh the immediate need for safety against the potential long-term effects on the church's relationship with its community. Transparency in the decision-making process and clear communication with the public about why such a measure was necessary can help mitigate negative perceptions.

Training and Preparedness

Importance of Training for Security Teams in Handling Lethal Scenarios

Proper training is paramount for security teams, particularly when it involves scenarios that may require lethal force. This training should cover not only the legal aspects but also the practical skills needed to assess and respond to threats accurately. Simulation exercises that replicate real-life scenarios can be particularly effective in preparing security personnel for the high-pressure decisions they might face.

Training should also include crisis management and communication skills to manage the aftermath of an incident where lethal force was used. This includes dealing with the public, law enforcement inquiries, and media attention, ensuring that the church's actions are properly represented and understood.

Scenarios Where Lethal Force Might Be Necessary

While the use of lethal force should always be a last resort, there are certain scenarios where it may be necessary. These can include situations where a dog poses an imminent and severe threat to human life, such as an uncontrolled attack on a person, particularly a child or a vulnerable individual. Other scenarios might include a dog exhibiting extreme aggression and being unresponsive to all other forms of deterrence, especially in confined spaces where escape or alternative measures are not viable.

It's crucial for security teams to have clear protocols for these scenarios, outlining the steps to be taken before resorting to lethal force. This includes attempting all reasonable non-lethal measures, assessing the threat level continuously, and, where possible, consulting with animal control experts. By having clear guidelines and thorough training, church security teams can ensure that any decision to use lethal force is made responsibly, ethically, and legally.

Case Studies and Lessons Learned

Analyzing Past Incidents

To effectively prepare for and respond to incidents involving dogs, it is insightful to analyze past occurrences, such as the recent incident in Wyandotte County where a dog was shot and killed outside a church. This case, along with others, provides real-world context and underscores the complexities involved in such situations. Analyzing these incidents helps in understanding the sequence of events, the decisions made by the security personnel, and the outcomes of those decisions.

By dissecting these cases, church security teams can identify both successful strategies and areas where different approaches might have led to better outcomes. For instance, understanding the specific behaviors exhibited by the dog in the Wyandotte County case, the actions taken by the security team, and the community's response offers invaluable lessons for future encounters.

Lessons Learned and Best Practices Identified

From these case studies, several best practices can be identified. These include the importance of early detection of potential threats, effective communication among security team members, and the use of appropriate de-escalation techniques. Additionally, these cases highlight the need for a clear understanding of when to escalate to the use of lethal force and the legal and ethical implications of doing so.

Another key lesson is the significance of having a well-prepared response plan that includes not just the immediate handling of the situation, but also managing the aftermath. This involves communication with the public and media, providing support to affected individuals, and reviewing and updating security protocols as needed.

Impact on Community and Law Enforcement

Examination of Community Reactions and Impact on Public Trust

The impact of dog-related incidents on community trust and perception of law enforcement and security teams cannot be overstated. Cases like the Wyandotte County incident often elicit strong emotional reactions from the public, especially when they involve harm to animals. These reactions can significantly affect the reputation and trustworthiness of the church's security team and, by extension, the church itself.

Understanding the community's perspective and maintaining open, empathetic communication are essential in managing these situations. It's important for church security teams to acknowledge the emotional weight of such incidents and to be transparent about the circumstances and reasoning behind their actions. This approach can help in maintaining or rebuilding public trust.

Additionally, these incidents offer learning opportunities for law enforcement and security teams. They highlight the importance of ongoing training, particularly in areas such as animal behavior, non-lethal intervention techniques, and community relations. By learning from these experiences and adapting their approaches, church security teams can better protect their congregations while also preserving the trust and respect of the wider community.

Collaborating with Law Enforcement and Animal Control

Importance of Collaboration with Local Law Enforcement and Animal Control

Forging strong partnerships with local law enforcement and animal control agencies is a strategic move for church security teams. Such collaborations are instrumental in effectively managing incidents involving dogs, ensuring public safety, and minimizing harm to the animals. These partnerships allow for the sharing of resources, expertise, and information, leading to more comprehensive and effective responses to potential threats.

Collaboration with law enforcement provides access to specialized training and resources that may not be readily available to church security teams. This includes insights into legal aspects, use-of-force protocols, and animal behavior. Similarly, animal control agencies bring specific expertise in handling dogs, understanding their behavior, and implementing humane methods of control and capture.

Sharing Resources and Information for Mutual Benefit

The mutual sharing of resources and information is a cornerstone of these partnerships. Law enforcement and animal control agencies can provide training sessions, share best practices, and offer guidance on legal and ethical considerations. In return, church security teams can provide valuable on-the-ground insights, such as information about local dog populations, known problem areas, and community concerns.

This exchange of knowledge and resources not only enhances the capabilities of church security teams but also contributes to a more informed and prepared community. It fosters a culture of proactive and preventive security measures, rather than reactive responses.

Joint Response Protocols

Developing Protocols for Joint Responses to Canine-Related Incidents

Establishing joint response protocols is crucial for ensuring coordinated and effective responses to incidents involving dogs. These protocols should outline clear roles and responsibilities for each agency, communication channels, and response strategies. They should cover a range of scenarios, from minor disturbances involving dogs to more serious threats requiring immediate intervention.

These protocols need to be regularly reviewed and updated, taking into account new insights, technological advancements, and changes in local laws and community needs. Regular joint exercises and drills can help ensure that all parties are familiar with the protocols and can execute them effectively under pressure.

A Commitment to Safety and Compassion

Balancing Safety with Compassion

The core of a successful church security strategy lies in the delicate balance between ensuring public safety and demonstrating compassion towards animals. This balance is not only a matter of practical safety measures but also a reflection of the church's values and its role in the community. Emphasizing the need for this balance underscores the church's commitment to protecting its congregation while also respecting and caring for all of God's creations.

A humane and thoughtful approach in all encounters with animals, especially dogs, is essential. This approach involves understanding animal behavior, using non-lethal methods whenever possible, and resorting to lethal force only as a last and unavoidable option. By prioritizing compassion alongside safety, church security teams can foster a more inclusive and caring environment, reflective of the church's mission and values.

Invitation for Community Feedback

In the spirit of collaboration and continuous improvement, we encourage our readers to share their experiences and insights regarding encounters with dogs and other animals in church settings. Your stories, suggestions, and perspectives are invaluable in enhancing our understanding and approach to church security.