A dog was stolen at gunpoint from a woman in Washington D.C. on Saturday night. The thieves attacked the woman, leaving her with multiple injuries, and made off with the dog.
Woman attacked in Washington D.C. looking for stolen dog
According to DC News Now, on Saturday night, Zaleena Ahmed took her dog for a walk by the Fort Totten metro station in Northeast D.C. Around 10 p.m., someone approached her with a gun. He demanded that she hand over her dog. She resisted. Then, another man appeared. One man grabbed the dog and the other man hit her over the head with a gun. Both men fled the scene in a black minivan. Apparently, it was missing the driver’s side door handle.
Ahmed said her dog, Max, is a West Highland White Terrier. He is 14 years old and approximately 25 pounds. At the time of the incident, Max was wearing a small blue coat. Because he is a senior dog, he requires “special care,” according to his dog mom. There is a reward available for Max’s safe return.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is aware of the attack. According to DC News Now, there is an assault charge pending. More information will be forthcoming from the police department.
How to stay safe on nighttime dog walks
Always take precautions to keep both you and your fur baby safe when walking at night. First, choose well-lit routes and stick to familiar paths. Second, carry a flashlight to illuminate your path and deter potential threats. Third, keep your dog on a leash and with just enough slack to walk comfortably. Fourth, be cautious about sharing too much information about your dog on social media. Always avoid revealing details like your exact location. Fifth, consider self-defense tools like personal alarms or pepper spray so you can defend yourself in case of attack. Sixth, ensure your pet has a microchip and an ID tag with your contact information. Finally, trust your instincts. If something feels off, head to a well-populated area or contact local authorities. By following these precautions, you can enjoy peaceful nighttime walks with your furry friend while minimizing the risk of theft.
