Dutchess County Woman Shares Terrifying Story About Off Leash Dog Encounter

What was a normal day walking the trails at James Baird State Park in Pleasant Valley, turned into a traumatic event for a local dog and his owner.

Valerie Carlisle shared on Facebook earlier this month that her dog Peludo was "viciously attacked by 3 dogs that were off leash during a walk on the trail in Baird Park."

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In a post dated January 2nd, 2025, Carlisle explained that the owners of the 2 dogs were not nearby and she couldn't stop the "ferocious" attack. She adds:

" It was horrible beyond belief. I finally threw myself on top of him. I never saw the owners after they pulled the dogs off. "

Terrified, Peludo took off and ran over a mile. He was missing for 2 hours until a Park Ranger stopped to help. Thankfully, the dog was found curled up under a bush and was quickly taken to get medical care.

As for the owners of the dog who allegedly attacked Peludo, 1 stayed behind to speak with Carlisle while the other took off.

A file was reported with the State police, Animal Control and with the park. Unfortunately, Carlisle tells us that she was told there was nothing that could be done since she was unable to identify the owners.

However, she's happy that there at least something on file in case this happens again on the property.

An Update on Dog Attacked at Local Pleasant Valley Park

We spoke with Carlisle who tells us that Peludo is doing much better now. The 8 year old dog was rescued from Mexico and has always been a very sweet pup.

Valerie shares with us that Peludo is doing much better now, explaining that he's been very needy but that probably has something to do with her baby her pup as he recovered.

On Facebook, after the attack Carlisle wrote

"I love Baird Park and have walked there almost everyday for the last 30 years. Please everyone, there's a reason why there's a leash rule. Your best dog may join others to attack a helpless animal.

Carlisle and Peludo returned to the park recently for a walk, but it was a quick one due to the chilly weather.

Leash Rules at New York State Parks

There are rule in place when it comes to pets on leashes in New York State Parks. According to the New York State Parks website pets must be on a leash in all New York State parks and should not be left unattended.

As for Baird Park, their leash rules are posted around the property and on their website. On the Baird site it states "Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length."

Read More: Little Known Dog Leash Laws in New York State Parks

Carlisle tells us that after the attack, she spoke with the Forest Ranger who came to her aid and he told her that new dog leash signs were put up around the park.

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