Astoria, OR — Deschutes County Sheriff’s deputies responded Thursday to a reported dog attack on U.S. Forest Service land, located approximately three miles southwest of Sisters. The incident unfolded on USFS Road 1505/430 Spur, where a man and his dog were attacked by three aggressive dogs believed to belong to a nearby homeless camp.
According to the sheriff’s office, the man had just exited his vehicle when the dogs approached and began attacking. Fearing for his own safety and that of his dog, the man used a knife to defend himself. The attack resulted in the deaths of two of the aggressive dogs at the scene, while a third dog, located at a nearby transient camp, was later euthanized due to injuries sustained during the incident.
Deputies determined the man’s actions were justified, as he was acting in self-defense. Both the man and his dog suffered minor puncture wounds and received medical treatment following the attack.
The deceased dogs were transported to Brightside Animal Shelter, while the third dog was taken to the Bend Humane Society. Following the investigation, deputies cited a transient woman, identified as the dogs’ owner, for three counts of Animal at Large and Animal Nuisance violations.
The U.S. Forest Service provided assistance during the investigation. Authorities continue to stress the importance of responsible pet ownership, particularly in public spaces, to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
