US Man Hospitalised After Pet Dog Accidentally Fires Shotgun

SHILLINGTON, PA — In a bizarre accident, a 53-year-old man from Shillington, Pennsylvania, was hospitalised after his pet dog accidentally fired a shotgun, striking him in the back. The incident occurred late Tuesday night, while the man was cleaning his firearm at home.

According to local authorities, the man was conscious when he called his son for help. Police arrived to find him on the floor and immediately transported him to Reading Hospital, where he underwent surgery. Officials confirmed that a follow-up operation would be required to ensure full recovery.

“While responding to the scene, we were informed that the dog had jumped onto the bed, causing the shotgun to discharge,” said Corporal Michael Schoone of the Shillington Police Department. He added that it was unclear whether the dog accidentally engaged the trigger or if a possible firearm malfunction contributed to the incident.

This is not an isolated case. Similar accidents have occurred in the United States in recent years, including a March incident in Memphis where a dog stepped on a loaded shotgun, discharging the weapon, and a 2018 case in Kansas where a German shepherd fatally shot a man.

Authorities continue to investigate the Shillington incident to confirm the exact circumstances, underscoring the importance of strict firearm safety protocols, particularly in households with pets.

The man is currently recovering from his injuries, and police have advised gun owners to ensure firearms are securely stored to prevent accidents, especially when children or animals are nearby.