A celebrated skateboarder faced a dog assault, significantly altering her looks. Despite the unfortunate incident, she managed to turn it into an opportunity for growth and empowerment, displaying an incredible metamorphosis. Utilizing her social media presence, she now motivates and provides a safe haven for others to share their struggles.
Victim of a Dog Assault
Image Credit: Brookhoury | Instagram
Reportedly, in November 2020, Brooklinn Khoury’s relative owned a dog that “suddenly launched an attack towards her.” As a consequence, Brook suffered severe physical injuries to her upper lip. She has since been transparent about the incident, stating, “When the attack occurred, it was difficult to envision my future.” She shared in a social media post, “The sight of my face post-surgery was daunting. However, I decided, ‘Time to embrace this new rendition of myself for now.'”
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Seven Reconstructive Surgeries Post-Dog Incident
Image Credit: Brookhoury | Instagram
The journey to recovery post the dog attack was arduous. “Essentially, my surgeon is reconstructing the top lip in this operation — forming a cupid’s bow and central columns. Essentially enhancing the aesthetic of my lip,” Khoury shared with PEOPLE in February 2023. “My surgeon is meticulous, striving for flawlessness.” By that time, she had undergone 7 reconstructive surgeries and was gearing up for the final interventions.
Cultivating Self-Love is Crucial
Incredibly, Brook encountered online mockery but remained undaunted, opting to leverage her voice for impact. She advocates for and embodies self-acceptance. “I have consistently possessed confidence and been indifferent to my physical appearance. I genuinely adore myself and my appearance, though societal perspectives may diverge,” she expressed. “The most challenging aspect has been the negative reactions from others. However, my posts aim to resonate with someone else enduring a similar plight so that they find solace in me. I share in the hope that it may provide comfort to others undergoing similar experiences.”
Read More: Woman Sneaks Dog Into Hospital Disguised as an Infant to Visit Grandmother
A Flourishing Journey
Image Credit: Brooklinn Khoury | People
Despite enduring physical impediments and multiple surgeries, she continues to lead an engaged life, partaking in skateboarding and socializing with friends. Furthermore, her relationship with Chloe Lukasiak, known from Dance Moms during her childhood, has blossomed over the past year. “This year, thanks to you, has been the most gratifying year of my life,” Brook expressed, commemorating their first anniversary.
Inspiring Strength and Positivity
Brook not only fashioned a joyful and satisfying existence post the dog attack but also seized the ordeal as an avenue to illuminate the world. She empowers individuals globally to transcend adversities, conquer them, and persist in cherishing life, embracing happiness, and indulging in escapades.
Prevention of Canine Attacks
Image Credit: Wolfgang157 | Pixabay
Although not universal, many scenarios can be averted to prevent dog attacks. Primary among them is maintaining composure. However, as Brook experienced, this measure may not always be effective.
Anticipated measures to avoid a dog attack, as per experts, include:
- Upright stance
- Stillness
- Avoid turning away
- Refrain from running
Provide a diversion. (For instance, toss an item off to the side, such as a bag, phone, or food, to distract the dog away from you.)
Discard food away from your body and deter the dog from approaching you to avert potential aggression or a repeated attack.
Instruct the dog to sit. (Though not foolproof, most dogs recognize the command and are likely to comply.)
Engage in slow deep breaths. Not only a grounding stratagem for humans, but it also proves effective in calming dogs, who are attuned to non-verbal cues.
- Cognize and heed the dog’s cues and body language.
- Speak calmly with the dog’s owner.
- Commencing Canine Attack Prevention Early
Image Credit: Pixabay
According to dog training professional Meg Marrs, owners can adopt several strategies to deter dog attacks. Dogs, akin to humans, necessitate socialization and mental stimulation. Hence, training and integrating dogs into social environments in their initial two years are essential steps to prevent dog attacks. Consistency in training holds equal importance.
“Pet, Pat, Pause Technique”
Image Credit: jarmoluk | Pixabay
Marrs advocates for a practical approach when interacting with a new dog. “Start by beckoning the dog with a hand pat on your leg. If the dog approaches, proceed to pet them. After a brief interval, pause and wait for the dog’s response – continue only if the dog indicates a desire for more petting. If they withdraw or exhibit no response, interpret that as a ‘no’,” as she detailed the “Pet, Pat, Pause Technique.” Marrs accentuated the necessity of “consent” in a dog’s interaction to minimize the risk of dog attacks. Pay attention to the cues a dog provides, whether through actions or signals, delineating boundaries of proximity.
Regrettably, certain circumstances render a dog attack unavoidable. In instances as such, safeguard vital organs as their teeth can inflict severe internal bleeding. Fortunately, spontaneous dog assaults, as experienced by Brook, are infrequent. Nevertheless, in her case, she has transformed the ordeal into an inspirational narrative for others.
