PHOENIX - A woman was killed while walking a dog at a pet hotel near downtown Phoenix Wednesday afternoon. According to Maricopa County Animal Care and Control, it was a male Akita that attacked the long-time rescue volunteer.
Team 12 spoke with experts about the dispositions of Akitas.
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Trainers like Jose De Anda with JD's K-9 Powerhouse Training said Akitas — known for being protective — are often used as therapy animals, making Wednesday's attack at the Canine Country Club and Feline Inn a rare and tragic accident.
“A woman lost her life trying to do something courageous and life-changing for the breed,” he said.
The volunteer was attacked by an Akita while walking it around the facility, something pet owner Mayra Holzer says they love to do, be around people.
“They actually love people, but you have to be respectful of them. They like to know who you are and if you're going to be good to them,” she said.
According to the Arizona Department of Health Services 34,000 people went to the hospital for dog bites over four years. Plus, Forbes lists Akitas as one of the top ten most aggressive breeds. De Anda suggests a slow approach to any dog.
“You have to keep in mind that you're coming into their space, into their territory. That doesn't mean they're aggressive, you know any breed, any dog, they have different personalities,” he added.
Overall, be mindful of an animal's boundaries and try not to catch them off-guard.
“Always be considerate. You know that you are dealing with an animal that has feelings and a mind of its own,” De Anda said.