Jerald Kirkwood was in bed with his girlfriend when his pet Pitbull, Oreo, jumped and inadvertently set off a firearm. Police said the dog’s paw got caught in the trigger guard, discharging the gun. The bullet grazed Mr Kirkwood’s upper left thigh. He was taken to a hospital in non-critical condition. His girlfriend, who left the scene with the gun after the incident, said they now plan to be extra cautious with firearms at home. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security stresses that the \”safe and secure storage\” of firearms is one of the most essential responsibilities of gun owners. The agency advises firearms and ammunition should be securely stored to prevent access by children or unauthorised individuals. Guns should always be pointed in a safe direction, and the trigger should not be touched unless the person handling it intends to fire. Firearms should never be used under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any impairing medication. Gun owners should understand how a firearm operates before handling it. In Tennessee, applicants must complete a Handgun Safety Course within six months before applying for a permit.