AUGUSTA, G.A. ()- Less than one month ago, 21-year-old Samara Rogers lost her life during a dog attack. Local animal service professionals are now sharing what to do if you encounter a not-so-friendly animal.

What do you do when you come across a dog that isn’t necessarily displaying playful behavior? Augusta Animal Services experts explain how to stay safe in an encounter with a harmful animal. 

Jacob Patterson is an animal service officer with Augusta Animal Services. He takes calls ranging from stray dogs and animal cruelty to dog bites. As well as animal attacks similar to the incident with Samara Rogers’ on December 18th.

“Like with the unfortunate case of Ms. Rogers, anything like that– a bite or an animal attacking another animal– the very first thing we do is make sure that the animals are secured and no longer a threat to public safety or to other animals…” Augusta Animal Services Officer Jacob Patterson.

Patterson says it’s important to know how to detect an aggressive animal and use the best measure of protection which is what they do after arriving to a call.

“But, whether that be by gaining control of the animals via catch poles or ensuring that they’ve been re-contained by their owners, then after that, then we proceed with our investigation and determine exactly what led to that attack…”

But in the case, you do come across a dog and you feel you may be in danger; Patterson shares a few ways to protect yourself– he says running is not a smart choice.

“Back away from the animal, try not to look them in the eyes– or anything that could be considered a challenge to the animal. But definitely keep your eyes on the animal, so you’re aware of their movements and what they’re making so you can plan your next step…” Patterson said.

And once a harmful animal is caught and the area is clear for safety, Patterson explains there’s a process they follow. 

“We operate under the guidelines of both Augusta Animal Services, Richmond County and the department of health as to whether or not the animal needs to be quarantined and brought here to animal services to maintain that public safety, or whether it can stay at home…”

Patterson says their goal is to make sure the citizens in Augusta and animals who live here. If you see a situation that may need professional animal services, call 706-790-6836.