Pregnant Jogger Attacked by Shepherd Dogs in French Alps; euthanasia Debated

A five-month pregnant woman, Nathalie Leblanc, sustained serious injuries after being attacked by two Anatolian Shepherd dogs while jogging in Saint-Dalmas-le-Selvage, a village in the Alpes-Maritimes region of France. The attack,which occurred on June 23,2025,at approximately 5:30 a.m., has ignited a debate regarding the safety of recreational activities in pastoral areas and the potential euthanasia of the dogs involved.

Details of the Dog Attack

Leblanc, familiar with her running route, was traversing a communal path when she encountered a herd of sheep. Noticing a Patou, a breed known for guarding livestock against wolves, she decided to turn back. It was then that two Anatolian Shepherd dogs emerged and attacked her [1].

One dog initially bit her leg,causing her to fall. Subsequently, the second dog attacked her right arm, near the shoulder. “I yelled at death,” Leblanc recounted,emphasizing the severity of the attack. She managed to fend off the dogs, but not before sustaining significant injuries. She waited two hours for help to arrive.

did You Know? Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are livestock guardians, bred to protect sheep and goats from predators. They can weigh up to 150 pounds and are known for their protective instincts.

Aftermath and Legal Considerations

Following the attack, leblanc filed a complaint with the gendarmerie of saint-Sauveur-sur-Tinée. She was placed on medical leave for fifteen days due to the physical and psychological trauma. The incident has resurfaced concerns about similar attacks in the valley, particularly when herds are grazing.

The owner of the dogs is reportedly preparing a defense, with his lawyer, Me Christophe Petit, suggesting that euthanasia is “improbable” and “unpublished.” the case has reignited the discussion about balancing livestock protection with public safety in rural regions.

Dog Bite Statistics and Pregnancy

Dog bites pose a significant health risk, especially for pregnant women [2]. While the immediate physical trauma is a concern,the psychological impact can be equally detrimental [3]. Stress and anxiety during pregnancy have been linked to adverse outcomes, including low birth weight and developmental issues.

Pro Tip: If you are pregnant and encounter an aggressive dog, remain calm, avoid direct eye contact, and slowly back away. Report the incident to local authorities instantly.

recurring Incidents and Community Concerns

Local residents have expressed concerns about the increasing frequency of such attacks when herds are present. Some feel that movement should be restricted during grazing periods to prevent further incidents. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of cohabitation between livestock, residents, and tourists in pastoral regions.

Questions Arising from the Attack

• what measures can be implemented to prevent future dog attacks in pastoral areas?
• What legal recourse is available to victims of dog bites,especially pregnant women?