Three weeks ago, a loose pit bull attacked my neighbor’s medium-sized mutt in our front yard while the dog was leashed and urinating. Amidst the chaos, I dialed 911 as the injured dog yelped in agony, and several adults struggled to pry the aggressive dog off, a harrowing ordeal that seemed to last an eternity. Thanks to intensive medical interventions including surgeries and blood transfusions, the neighbor’s dog managed to survive, albeit with numerous stitches, drains, a missing ear, and mobility challenges.
As a parent to a 7-year-old and a 2-year-old, the incident understandably shook me to the core, even though my older child was at school and the toddler was peacefully napping during the attack. The lingering fear and anxiety stemming from the traumatic event have led me to impose stringent safety measures, such as refraining from allowing my children to play in the front yard and avoiding unfenced playgrounds. I now habitually scan our surroundings for potential threats and have taken to carrying pepper spray for added security. While I cognitively recognize the rarity of such an incident befalling my children, I struggle to quell these persistent apprehensions and prevent them from unduly restricting my children’s freedom. How can I overcome this pervasive fear?
—Fearful Mama
Dear Fearful Mama,
Your apprehension and anxiety following the distressing incident are entirely valid given the trauma you witnessed. It is natural to harbor concerns about the safety of your children, especially in the aftermath of such a harrowing experience. While it is prudent to exercise caution, gradually reintroducing activities like allowing your kids to play in the front yard and visiting unfenced playgrounds can help restore a sense of normalcy and security. Affirmations affirming your children’s safety and your ability to protect them can serve as a reassuring mantra in moments of heightened anxiety. Should these feelings persist beyond a reasonable period, seeking support from a therapist to process and navigate through these emotions may be beneficial in fostering resilience and peace of mind.
—Jamilah