A Moose in the Mix

Here at VPI, we’ve seen a number of claims for pets that have squared off against wild animals. From the mastiff named Moose who was kicked by a mule to Chico the Chihuahua who was almost dinner for a hungry owl, there are days when I think we’ve seen it all. After reviewing Aggie’s claim, however, it would seem as though we can now add an actual moose attack to the mix of unusual claims we receive every month.

When Linda and John Unland first spotted a moose from their 52 acre property in Driggs, Idaho, they were awe-struck. “We’ve had the land for 22 years and we’ve only seen moose twice,” explained Linda. “We were flabbergasted and thought it was the coolest thing.”

Always conscientious of wildlife in the area, Linda is careful not to leave dog food out or to let their curious canines wander too far unattended. When the Unlands venture into town, Aggie and Houser, their Newfoundland dogs, either join the couple or are left to enjoy the outdoors within the safe confines of an electric fence that surrounds an entire acre of their property.  While the Unlands thoroughly considered precautions against their pets wandering outside the territory, they didn’t worry much about the dangers of something venturing in.

“We came home from dinner one night after leaving the dogs outside and we noticed that Aggie couldn’t lie down,” recalled Linda. “If we tried to touch her she would wince. It was very traumatic for us, not knowing what had happened.” Concerned, the Unlands slept on the ground with Aggie that night and called the local veterinarian the following day. Aggie was examined and, while it was clear that her hind legs were in pain, X-rays revealed no broken bones. The 6-year-old Newfoundland was prescribed medication and after about 4 days, was finally able to move around comfortably.

Though Aggie was recovering, the Unlands were still left wondering what exactly had happened to their beloved pooch. “The fact is that we may never know,” said Linda. “It’s possible that she could’ve gotten into a fight. We found moose tracks and believe that one may have crossed over onto the property. Aggie looks warily into the woods a lot since the incident. She’s very protective over her turf and over Houser.”

I shared Aggie’s incident with Dr. Silene Young, VPI’s director of veterinary marketing. Dr. Young was quick to remind me that wild animal attacks can happen anywhere, whether you’re in the wilderness of Idaho or a quiet suburban area. “Coyotes, foxes and predatory birds can live in close proximity to our companion animals and they are always a threat,” explained Dr. Young. “Proper fencing is helpful, but it isn’t always the only solution. Investing in a lighting system is also a good idea, and it’s important to remember never to leave small animals outside alone at night.”

The Unlands have since purchased fencing from a horse supplier to hopefully prevent a similar incident from occurring in the future. “If you’re out with pets in the wild, you can’t be too cautious about monitoring them. Aggie and Houser are the protectors of our property. If a wild animal wanders in, they’re going to go at it,” said Linda. “That’s why it’s important for us to have VPI Pet Insurance. You can gamble and say you’re not going to need it, but someday you will.”