A Central New York photographer, Christina Wall, faced a harrowing experience during a recent photoshoot when she was attacked by a client's dog. Despite her extensive experience with animals, Wall's instincts warned her that something was off, leading to a terrifying encounter that lasted just 37 seconds.
Key Takeaways
- Christina Wall, a professional photographer, was attacked by a Cane Corso during a photoshoot.
- Wall's instincts warned her about the dog's temperament, but she proceeded with the session.
- The attack lasted only 37 seconds, resulting in minor injuries but significant emotional trauma.
- Wall emphasizes the importance of staying calm in dangerous situations.
The Incident
Christina Wall has been a professional photographer for over a decade, specializing in capturing moments with pets. During a recent session, she felt an unsettling vibe about a client's Cane Corso. Despite her concerns, she continued with the shoot, believing the dog would behave.
As the session concluded, the dog unexpectedly lunged at her. Wall recalled, "I didn't provoke the animal. He just bolted." In that moment, she remembered that running could escalate the situation. Instead, she used a nearby telephone pole as a barrier, moving around it to keep the dog at bay.
The Attack
The attack unfolded rapidly, lasting only 37 seconds. Wall experienced two bites: the first on her back, which thankfully did not puncture the skin, and the second on her arm, resulting in a rip and puncture. Despite the dog's attempts to grab hold of her, Wall managed to evade further injury.
In a moment of panic, she considered the safety of her camera versus her life. Ultimately, she chose her life, stating, "Obviously I picked my life."
Aftermath
Following the attack, Wall received three stitches, a tetanus shot, and antibiotics. However, the emotional scars run deeper. She now grapples with anxiety, stating, "My chest tightens up every time I see a dog, which sucks."
Wall's experience serves as a cautionary tale for others in similar professions. She plans to trust her instincts more in the future, especially when it comes to working with animals. "Going forward, if I have a bad feeling about a dog or situation, I will just trust my gut more," she said.
Lessons Learned
Wall hopes her traumatic experience will educate others about handling aggressive animals. She advises:
- Stay Calm: Do not run; it can provoke the animal further.
- Use Barriers: If possible, put something between you and the dog.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is.
In a symbolic gesture, Wall plans to get a tattoo that reads "37 seconds" to commemorate the day she narrowly escaped a potentially fatal situation. "That's what stuck in my mind. I'm so thankful to be alive," she reflected.
Christina Wall's story is a reminder of the unpredictability of working with animals and the importance of being prepared for the unexpected.
Sources
- New York Photographer Survives Dog Attack During Photoshoot, Big Frog 104.
