So sorry to hear about your pup, and glad things aren't as serious as they initially seemed.

Mace is an excellent tool when dealing with a violent dog-if you stick a hand or foot in between two dogs you will be bitten (experience...)

If you can find your witnesses, see if they can ID the person responsible. There are lots of responsible dog owners and lovers in OC that are out all the time and know who's who, especially if this person is from the n'hood. Something ought to be done.

I've heard of a very aggressive young yellow lab before-used to be at Christ Church park. A close friend also had a serious altercation.

That said, I've got two typically aggressive scottish terriers. They have a few friends they're great with, but that's it. Though they're well trained and socialized (as much as terriers can be), they are ALWAYS on a strong lead and never far from my side. As a dog owner, it is my responsibility, particularly with a difficult breed.

The owner of the dog that attacked yours needs to be a responsible owner of an unpredictable dog. (All dogs can be unpredictable around new dogs, regardless of how benign their behavior was previously).

So sorry for what you went through. Hope others can learn, and that they identify the owner of the dog responsible.