dog and sitter get attacked by loose running strange dogs and are left with severe injuries. . Has that ever happen to a dog sitter during a walk and what was the outcome regarding responsibility?

Hi Anita:

I'm so sorry this happened to you! That has never happened to me (thank God), but I do have my own pet sitting insurance that would cover related injuries, etc. I am also a paranoid person and I carry Pet Safe spray (it's a safe pepper spray type spray for dogs) in case of a loose dog attack. Did you report the attack to Rover? That should be done right away. Was the attack reported to the local authorities? Whether you're pet sitting or not, all loose dog attacks should be reported. As far as the client puppy's injuries go, you should contact Rover support to report the attack and inquire about insurance coverage for the puppy's injuries ([Edit: Rover’s contact options have changed. Visit the Rover Help Center at https://support.rover.com/ to find the phone number, help articles, or chat with the team]).

Wow, thats terrible!

I always scan the walkways around me to be alert to such dangers. I have successfully avoided many loose dogs that way. If you're in the woods that will be harder to do but in the city its very easy since you can see clearly for blocks.

I only had one time I was surprised because I opened my garage door and he came around the corner. I immediately started yelling and waving my hands at him. Think like for a bear attack. I screamed at him "OH NO YOU DONT THIS IS MY BABY AND I HAVE TO PROTECT HER. I WILL TAKE YOU OUT! YOU BETTER GO ON! GET GO! LEAVE! OUT! OFF! GO!" My own dog was staring at me like "seriously mom?" Then I scooped her up in my arms on my shoulder and backed away.

Understandably yours was tougher with two dogs going for you. I would definitely recommend looking around you and if the dogs do surprise you: let go of her leash, because they'll chase her but dogs can outrun and hide better than humans and you can call animal control while they're distracted.

As Mary recommends, call animal control immediately to report the attack. They will quarantine the dogs, fine the owner, and have it on record if it happens to someone again.