The footage was clear, undeniable in its presentation of the events. There was no aggression, no attack — just a misunderstanding between a curious child and a patient dog. I turned to the woman, her face now drained of its fiery indignation. She seemed embarrassed, the redness creeping into her cheeks as she realized her mistake.

The police, having witnessed the footage, exchanged looks and then turned to the woman. “Ma’am,” one of them said gently, “there’s no evidence of an attack. It looks like your daughter’s fall was accidental, and the dog was only trying to help.”