Springfield boy attacked by a dog after provoking the animal

Dogs are often referred to as man's best friend, but their aggressive animal instincts can come out when they feel threatened, which can instigate them to attack.

This was recently the case in Springfield, Massachusetts, when a dog bit a 12-year-old boy who refused to listen to advice to keep his distance. Francisco Hilson walked onto the dog's property uninvited, according to The Republican. The animal's owner, Bianca Quinones, told the boy to stay behind the gate, but he did not obey her precautionary statement.

"I feel bad for the boy. He got bit," Quinones told the news source. "The kid came into the yard. We told him twice not to come into the yard."

Per city ordinance, a hearing will be held to determine if Quinones' dog is dangerous and needs to be euthanized. The victim's mother alleges the attack was unprovoked. If the dog is deemed safe, Quinones will be required to buy liability insurance in order to keep her pet.

Those who want to increase their personal safety might want to buy pepper spray. When used properly, it can temporarily blind an aggressive dog in the event of an attack. 

Long Island jogger groped while running in Old Field

Many people choose to run as their main form of exercise, but this can be dangerous, especially when joggers fail to carry protective gear with them outdoors. Assailants typically target runners because they are ill-prepared for an attack.

This was recently the case in Long Island when a 23-year-old woman was jogging in Old Field, according to the Long Island Press. The individual was allegedly groped by a man running in the opposite direction who had stopped her to ask a question.

"The man then ran behind her, grabbed her with one arm while groping her inappropriately with the other hand," police told the news source.

A vehicle approached the scene, which resulted in the attacker running to avoid being caught. The witness in the vehicle then proceeded to provide assistance to the jogger who had been assaulted. This incident occurred just one week after another man had been arrested for raping a jogger less than 20 miles away.

Although many joggers rarely carry protective devices with them while running, pepper spray is ideal for increasing personal safety. When used, it can temporarily cause blindness in an assailant and give a victim the chance to run away.

Fines increase for animal ordinance violations in Hazel Park

Although many dog owners allow their pets to roam free from time to time in an open space, it can result in an attack on a stranger, regardless of how mellow the animal is. Individuals who have neighbors with dogs that are constantly unleashed are also at risk of an attack.

In an effort to control the growing problem in Hazel Park, Michigan, legislators have raised the fines for people who disregard the animal control ordinance, according to The Daily Tribune. The change comes after a dog recently attacked a two-year-old toddler in the area.

"This was a vicious dog-bite case," City Attorney Jan Drumm told the news source. "The boy's arm will have permanent nerve damage. The mother’s leg was mauled and she still has to go back for several operations for skin grafts."

The violation, which once resulted in a $100 fine, will now be $500. Every incident that occurs after that point will result in a $1000 fine.

Pepper spray can increase personal safety and subdue an aggressive animal in the event of an attack. When sprayed in the face of a dog, it can cause temporary blindness.

South Carolina landlord may face charges for dog bite incident

Many landlords do not allow their tenants to have animals, and with good reason. Not only can they damage an apartment, but they can be dangerous to those living in the building, especially when the animal is not restrained.

This happened to be the case in 2003 when a dog attacked a 2-year-old child in Sumter County, South Carolina, according to the Associated Press. After the dog aggressively confronted the toddler, the family was forced to spend $17,000 in medical bills.

Recently, the South Carolina Supreme Court decided that the case will be sent to a lower court to determine if the landlord should be charged for the incident. The individual allegedly knew that the dog, which had lived in the building for 10 years, had attacked people before.

Although many people assume that they could never be the victim of an attack by a neighbor's dog, these instances happen everyday. Those who want to increase their personal safety might want to buy pepper spray. When used properly, it can temporarily blind an aggressive animal and give a victim the chance to seek help.

Pit bulls attack a man, cause serious injuries

Although many people are concerned for their personal safety when approached by their neighbor's aggressive dogs, animal control often takes little action before it's too late. This was recently the case in California when one man was attacked by dogs that he knew were a threat to the community, according to NBC affiliate KGET-TV.

Michael McGee was cornered by his neighbor's pit bulls one evening and tried to get away by jumping a fence. Although he did not attempt to fight the dogs, they proceeded to attack him. The injuries forced him to seek medical attention at a nearby hospital.

"I didn't know what to do, I was backing up and I took my glasses that I had and threw it at the dog, and it kept coming at me," McGee told the news source.

McGee has reported the dogs to animal control on numerous occasions, but nothing had been addressed until the recent incident.

Individuals who are interested in increasing their personal safety might want to purchase pepper spray. When used properly, it can temporarily blind an animal and give a victim the chance to flee to safety.

Atlanta woman threatened by man with a hammer while jogging

Although many people enjoy jogging as their main form of exercise, running outside can sometimes prove to be a dangerous feat. This is because runners do not tend to carry items for protection while exercising in public areas.

Recently, one woman in Atlanta was approached by a dangerous man on a trail at the Freedom Parkway, according to FOX affiliate FOX-5 News. He threatened to rape the jogger, which prompted her to run from the individual. The attacker began to follow her up the trail until she found other joggers to run to for help.

"I didn't know what was wrong," Tyler Swann, who assisted the jogger, told the news source. "So I asked her how can I help? She said I just got attacked someone tried to assault me."

Swann gave the woman water and proceeded to call 911. When the police arrived, the victim said that the man had a hammer in hand when he threatened to rape her. Although officers did not classify the incident as an attack because she was not physically assaulted, they are warning joggers to keep their eyes peeled while running.

Those who want to increase their personal safety can purchase pepper spray. When used properly, it can temporarily blind an assailant and give a victim the chance to run for help.

More animal experts warning of dog attacks

Many people are under the assumption that dogs are harmless, domesticated animals. While that may be true in a number of cases, a threatened dog may feel the need to rely on its instincts and go on the attack when fearful of strangers.

This was recently the case in Sacramento, California, where a child was attacked by a pit bull that had gotten loose, according to ABC affiliate News 10. Although the individual survived the attack, more animal professionals are attempting to raise awareness of the dangerous side of dogs.

Plastic surgeon, Amy Wandel, told the news source that she sees many patients come through her office after suffering from such attacks.

"I see just as many dog bites from dogs that are not pit bulls as bites from pit bulls," Wandel told the news source. "The big difference is pit bulls are known to grab onto something and keep holding so their damage they create is worse than other breeds."

Individuals who are interested in increasing their personal safety are advised to take precautionary measures and purchase pepper spray for protection. When used properly, it can temporarily subdue an aggressive dog.

Woman suing campground owners from dog attack

Although dogs can be man's best friend, they can cause a substantial amount of damage when they feel threatened and go on the attack. This was the case for one woman who is now suing a couple after their dog unexpectedly bit her.

Recently, Jessica Barker was attacked by an aggressive dog owned by Christopher and Rebecca Ogden, according to The West Virginia Record. The owners operate the Bruceton Mills campground, which is where the dog often resides. Barker was visiting the campground when the animal unexpectedly attacked her.

According to the lawsuit, Barker is claiming that the wounds have caused physical pain and suffering, permanent impairment and mental anguish. She also says that the dog has allegedly attempted to attack other people on the campground before.

Barker claims that the owners knew that the dog was aggressive. In the lawsuit, she also says that they were "reckless" and "willful" in their behavior.

Individuals who want to increase their personal safety against animals may want to purchase pepper spray. When used properly, it can temporarily blind an attacker and give a victim the chance to run away.

Victim of dog attack receives support from the local community

It isn't uncommon for untamed dogs to attack people who are unfamiliar to them, but it can become a dangerous situation when they assault vulnerable individuals, such as elderly people and small children.

Brandon Williams, a 10-year-old boy from Tennessee, is lucky to be alive after a recent attack by two aggressive dogs. Currently, Williams is in the hospital for wounds throughout his body. The boy had his ears torn from his head in the incident, according to KnoxNews.com.

Since word of the attack has spread, Williams and his family have seen the community come together in hope of the boy's full recovery. Many strangers have sent get well soon cards and toys to the family, along with their best wishes.

"One woman made a quilt for him and dropped it at the hospital," hospital spokesman Jim Ragonese told the news source. "Someone else came in and brought the little guy Bug Juice after they read about how he liked it in the newspaper this weekend."

Individuals who want to increase their personal safety can buy pepper spray. When used properly, it can temporarily blind an aggressive animal and give a victim the chance to run away.

Oklahoma police warn the public against dog attacks

Most people assume they could never be the victim of a dog attack, but that's what police in Stonewall, Oklahoma, don't like to hear. As of late, officers and attack experts have been raising awareness of dog bites, according to The Oklahoman.

Experts stress that all dogs are territorial, meaning there is no such thing as a "safe" breed. However, some dogs have been tamed and are more obedient than others. In any case, it is important for individuals to know how to protect themselves in the event of an attack.

"You've got to stand up to them. You can't run," Oklahoma City veterinarian Brett Boatsman told the news source. "Try to back them down. Make yourself look bigger and tougher than you are, but don't run at them. That's a sign of aggression from you, and they can be counter-aggressive."

Experts also warn against leaning on fences or coming too close to a dog that is on its own property. This will often cause them to react aggressively in an effort to protect their home.

Individuals interested in increasing personal safety may want to buy pepper spray. When used, it can temporarily blind an aggressive animal.

Labradors cited in a majority of biting incidents

When people think of aggressive dogs, many think of pit bulls. While it is true that this breed can be particularly aggressive, new statistics show that one unexpected type of dog is leading the pack in bites: Labradors.

Recently, the Nebraska Humane Society released statistics that showed that Labradors were at the top of the list of bites with 35 in the first six months of 2011. Pit bulls were second with 23 bites, while German Shepherds were close behind with 19 incidents, according to the Omaha World-Herald.

In an effort to prevent bites, the region has a law in place that requires pit bull owners to place a muzzle on their pets while taking them out for a walk unless they are six months old or younger. Some breeds also require liability insurance up to $100,000.

The Humane Society says that regardless of the breed, most dogs can be trained to be welcoming and accepting of the people in their lives, as well as those they encounter on the street.

Individuals who want to increase their personal safety against neighborhood dogs might want to buy pepper spray. When used, it can temporarily blind an animal and give a person time to flee to safety. 

Labradors cited in a majority of biting incidents

When people think of aggressive dogs, many think of pit bulls. While it is true that this breed can be particularly aggressive, new statistics show that one unexpected type of dog is leading the pack in bites: Labradors.

Recently, the Nebraska Humane Society released statistics that showed that Labradors were at the top of the list of bites with 35 in the first six months of 2011. Pit bulls were second with 23 bites, while German Shepherds were close behind with 19 incidents, according to the Omaha World-Herald.

In an effort to prevent bites, the region has a law in place that requires pit bull owners to place a muzzle on their pets while taking them out for a walk unless they are six months old or younger. Some breeds also require liability insurance up to $100,000.

The Humane Society says that regardless of the breed, most dogs can be trained to be welcoming and accepting of the people in their lives, as well as those they encounter on the street.

Individuals who want to increase their personal safety against neighborhood dogs might want to buy pepper spray. When used, it can temporarily blind an animal and give a person time to flee to safety. 

Iowa boy recovering from dog bites in the hospital

Anyone can quickly become the victim of an attack by an aggressive dog if they happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. However, some incidents can be more severe than others, especially when they involve small children.

Recently, a six-year-old boy from Dubuque, Iowa, found himself under attack by a dog in his own neighborhood. Joseph Bowers was playing outside when a pit bull attacked him, according to Eastern Iowa Now. He is now recovering in a local hospital, but victims say the attack was gruesome. Bowers' ear was nearly torn off while his arms were chewed in multiple places.

"This has been a complete nightmare for all of us," Jessica Bowers, Joseph's mother, told the news source. "Joseph is going to be scarred for a long time, mentally. He's having nightmares, kicking and screaming. "

Joesph has undergone two surgeries and has received more than 100 stitches. Since the incident, police say that the dog has been put down.

Pepper spray can increase personal safety and combat aggressive animals. When used, it can temporarily cause blindness and give individuals the opportunity to run to safety.

String of sexual assaults near University of Michigan campus raises concern

A third woman was recently assaulted near the University of Michigan campus, according to the Detroit Free Press.

Police say the victim had been walking toward campus when a man approached her and pulled her behind a wall where he assaulted her.

A warning has been issued by the university that discussed proper safety while walking as the suspect continues to roam the streets.

The victim said the perpetrator was a white male, approximately six-foot-five inches tall and had brown hair and eyes.

This description is a bit different from the assailant described by two other victims who were also assaulted recently. According to their accounts, their attacker was a man in his late teens or early 20s with olive skin and short dark hair.

Police are trying to piece together all three assaults to see if any similar patterns can be concluded, although as of now, it's not certain if the attacks are at all related.

Campus and Michigan police are investigating and are continuing to urge that students be extremely cautious when walking near or on campus. They suggest carrying pepper spray and walking in groups at all times as an added measure of protection until those responsible for the attacks are found.

Armed robber still on the loose in Emmaus

Emmaus, Pennsylvania, police are still looking for a masked criminal who robbed a Sovereign Bank in Lehigh County, according to WFMZ-TV.

According to police reports, a masked criminal with a gun held up the bank on an early morning weekday, and after he got what he wanted he proceeded to take off into nearby cornfields.

A full throttle manhunt followed as K9 units, SWAT teams and state police all covered the area, while local police kept concerned residents away from the scene.

With a situation like this, Chief David Faust of the Emmaus Police Department said safety is always the number one concern, saying, "I would rather err on the side of safety to ensure safety of the surrounding area."

Even with all the extra hands, the masked robber managed to slip away and police are still on the hunt for him.

Police are urging residents to stay alert as the criminal is still on the loose. To ensure your personal safety stay in areas that have a lot of people and consider carrying pepper spray to be further protected should you come in contact with the armed assailant.

Clerk uses pepper spray to halt robbery

Portland, Oregon, police are looking for a suspect that attempted to rob a local Dotty's convenient store, according to East Portland KATU.

Police reports state that a male suspect wearing a mask walked into the store at 1:30 a.m. and made it look like he had a gun in his pocket. At which time he walked over to the clerk and started yelling demands.

The clerk decided to take matters into his own hands and proceeded to punch the robber in the face and sprayed him with pepper spray.

During the retaliation, the suspect fled the store and got into a white 1990s Ford Explorer. The license plate was unreadable, but police do have surveillance tape with pictures of the assailant.

The suspect is said to be a white male approximately five-foot-six-inches tall with a goatee or a full beard.

If you work in an environment where your business stays open all-night, you may be at risk for a potential robbery. By carrying pepper spray, you may be able to prevent a situation from becoming out of hand. If the robber does have a firearm, it may be better for your personal safety to hand over what they want and call the police after the incident.

The music stops for a musician who held up a pharmacy in MA

Attleboro, Massachusetts, police had a star encounter recently as they took Coheed and Cambria bassist Michael R. Todd into custody after he robbed a Walgreens pharmacy before a show in a neighboring town, according to The Boston Globe.

According to police reports, the bassist walked into the store and used his cellphone screen to scare the pharmacists into giving him painkillers. The message allegedly stated that he had a bomb in his pocket and that he wanted narcotics - specifically OxyContin.

The court papers also stated that the pharmacist who dealt with Todd said that she was fearful that he would hurt her or one of her coworkers if she didn't cooperate with his demands.

After he was given six bottles of oxycodone, he reportedly fled the scene in a taxi that he took back to the band's venue. Witnesses told police that a man had gotten into a taxi.end Officers called the taxi company and were able to track Todd down. He was found on his tour bus and was arrested.

He's being charged with armed robbery and drug possession charges.

In this situation, a threat occurred and the worker did what she needed to do to maintain her personal safety and the safety of her fellow employees. Walking alone or walking at night is another time when you could be made a target for a robbery or an assault. Carrying pepper spray could enhance your security as a way to ward of an assailant should you be faced with an attempted robbery.

Self-defense courses offered free to recent graduates

Ventura, California, high school students are being offered free self-defense classes at the Miller Family YMCA as a way to prepare them for situations that may arise while at college, according to the Ventura County Star.

Self-defense sensei Mike Szydlowski will be teaching recent high school graduates proper techniques of defense that they'll hopefully be able to take with them as they head off on their own in college.

Janice Wise, the director of marketing at the Miller Y, spoke on the benefits of teaching kids self-defense as they pursue their freedom at college, and what it can also do for the parents.

"The classes will give parents some peace of mind as they send their kids off to school this fall," Wise told the Ventura County Star. "It's the Y's graduation gift to our community."

Classes will be free and open to graduates with or without a Y membership.

Going to college can be a great experience as it gives young adults the chance to live life on their own. With this new freedom also comes the potential for issues to arise as alcohol and the lack of traditional rules can fuel problems. Purchasing pepper spray to bring to school may be another method preserving your personal safety if you are ever walking alone or feel threatened.

Victim looses part of his nose during recent attack

A recent attach on a footpath in Camberley, England, left one victim with part of his nose bitten off, according to the BBC.

Police are saying this was an unprovoked assault and are now trying to piece together what happened during the 11:00 p.m. attack.

According to the news source, the 35-year-old victim had been walking with a friend on a footpath when three men approached them and started attacking the victim. Police told the press he was knocked down and one of the attackers proceeded to bite off a portion of the victim's nose.

After the assault the three suspects took off on foot. The victim was taken to the hospital and is scheduled to have surgery within the next few days.

Police are hopeful they'll be able to find the suspects based on the location of the attack and the eyewitness account from the victim's friend."The assault happened close to a busy road so I believe that there is a possibility that passing motorists or pedestrians may have seen or heard something shortly before 11pm on Saturday night," Detective Sgt. Rebecca Westmore told the news outlet.

Your personal safety can become more in question when you're having a conversation as you're less likely to pay attention to your surroundings. Purchasing pepper spray to carry with you may be a method of staying safe as the device works to blind your attacker giving you time to get out of harms way.

Free self-defense classes offered for Myrtle Beach residents after string of purse snatching's

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, women are getting free lessons in self-defense after a string of purse snatches in the area have prompted the need for added ways to protect their personal safety, according to NBC affiliate, WMBF.

Former law enforcement officer Nelson Melendez runs a free once-a-month self-defense clinic for area women to learn proper ways to defend themselves against an attack.

The need for learning self-defense is becoming more real as a woman reported a purse snatching just days before one of the classes, she was knocked down as the suspect stole her belongings.

"It's probably the most important hour you can spend because it might save your life," said Myrtle Beach resident Mary Beth Gardiner, who attends the self defense seminars.

Through the easy-to-learn methods, Melendez hopes he can help empower women to fight back should they be involved in a similar situation.

Purse snatching is a real problem throughout many major cities in the U.S. Keeping your belongings close to your body and staying off cell phones or listening to music are other ways to prevent an attack, as when you're distracted you can become an easier target. Purchasing pepper spray to carry while you walk is another option to guard yourself should a situation arise.