A dog showing aggressive behavior toward a Turlock Police officer was shot Wednesday morning, the police department reported.

The dog was injured, though not mortally and is recovering.

The shooting happened during a traffic enforcement call for an illegally parked recreational vehicle in the 2600 block of Polous Drive.

A Neighborhood Resource Officer and a Code Enforcement Officer were in the Polous Drive neighborhood at 10:48 a.m. Wednesday. The NRO approached the side door of the RV and was met by two charging dogs.

“In an effort to get the dogs to stop, the officer retreated as he discharged his canister of pepper spray,” said Turlock Police spokesman Sgt. Michael Parmley.  “As the officer was retreating, he lost footing and fell to the ground.”

The pepper spray canister was now empty and the dogs were still aggressing towards him, so the officer drew his firearm and shot one of the dogs.

“This was done in defense of himself and a nearby Code Enforcement Officer,” Parmley said.

The firing of the lone gunshot sent both dogs running back into the RV. The owner of the dogs came out of the recreational vehicle and cooperated with the officers.

Members of the Turlock Police Department Animal Services Unit responded to the location and took custody of one dog, which suffered from what appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries, resulting from the gunshot.

“Although this unfortunate incident could have been avoided had the dogs been properly contained, the Turlock Police Department will ensure the injured dog gets medical treatment,” said Turlock Police Lt. Russell Holeman. “We are pleased that neither of our officers, or the dog owner, were injured as a result of this incident.”

An investigation into the discharge of the firearm is being completed in accordance with Turlock Police Policy.

The Turlock Police Department asks that anyone with information, to call Detective Brandon Bertram at (209) 664-7323.