“It’s trying to help!” I yelled.
But he wasn’t listening.
“Get that mutt out of here!”
Before anyone could react, he swung his leg and kicked the dog hard in the side.
The sound—more than the action—made my stomach turn.
The dog yelped but didn’t retreat.
It scrambled back to the man, barking louder now, more frantic, circling him, then darting toward the counter and back again like it was trying to show us something.
“Control your animal!” the manager barked, grabbing a broom from the corner.
“He’s unconscious!” someone shouted. “Call 911!”
“I’m calling!” another voice answered.
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