On Monday, March 6th, a man from San Manuel, Arizona found a bobcat lounging on his dog’s bed after returning home from work. The whereabouts of the homeowner’s dog, Squeakers, were initially unknown. According to an initial report from Fox 10, no injuries were reported to humans or animals from the encounter. However, Squeakers returned home the following day with serious injuries.
The tweet from the Arizona Game and Fish Department on March 8th revealed that Squeakers had sustained $300 worth of injuries due to the bobcat attack. The pet had run out of the doggy door during the encounter and had been too traumatized to return until it felt safe.
The owners have set up a GoFundMe page to cover the medical expenses of Squeakers, who is currently undergoing treatment at the Veterinary Specialty Center Tucson. The total cost of treatment is $3,300, and anyone wishing to help can donate via the GoFundMe page or get updates on Squeakers’ progress through its Instagram page.
The incident highlights the dangers of living near wildlife and how pet owners should take measures to protect their animals. It is not uncommon for pets to encounter wild animals such as bobcats, coyotes, and bears. It is essential to secure pet doors, not leave pets outside unsupervised, and never approach or corner wild animals. Encountering and attacking domesticated animals is a natural hunting instinct of wild animals like bobcats, which can cause serious injuries or even be fatal in some cases.
This incident also showcases the importance of keeping pets up to date on vaccinations and routine health checkups. A pet’s immune system can be compromised during an attack, and seeking immediate medical attention can prevent complications.
Additionally, it is necessary to educate people on living with wildlife as it is beneficial for both humans and animals. Wildlife is an essential part of the ecosystem, and it is our responsibility to protect them by reducing their exposure to human activities. We need to learn and understand the behavior and habitat of animals so that we can coexist with them safely.
Meanwhile, the Arizona Game and Fish department advises residents on how to live safely with wildlife. In a statement released via its official website, it suggests that people secure their homes and yards to limit wildlife access, avoid attracting wild animals to their property by keeping a lid on trash cans and removing food sources, and report any animal-related incidents seen in their area.
In conclusion, the bobcat attack on Squeakers is a reminder of how we must ensure the safety of our pets from wildlife encounters. Fortunately, Squeakers is receiving the necessary treatment and making progress towards full recovery. The incident has also created awareness among pet owners to secure their homes and keep their pets safe. Furthermore, we need to learn to respect wildlife and live in harmony with them as essential parts of the ecosystem.
