Note the fixed anterior lividity. The decedent was lying prone on a bed with a wrinkled comforter. Postmortem dog feeding occurred around the anus. Autopsy revealed the absence of large portions of intestines. This case was first suspicious for homicidal violence. Large amounts of blood had drained from the body to the bedding, which was further spread about by the dog.
Fig.1 Note the fixed anterior lividity.
In cases with postmortem animal predation, the psychological state of the animal is a possible reason for its behavior. One possible explanation for such behavior is that a pet will try to help an unconscious owner first by licking or nudging, but when this fails to produce any results the behavior of the animal can become more frantic and in a state of panic can lead to biting. The motive is not to attack the owner but is a kind of ‘‘displacement’’ behavior motivated by confusion and fear. The fact that the efforts of the animal will obviously be fruitless explains why this can easily escalate and culminate in excessive mutilation.
Fig.2 Postmortem dog feeding occurred around the anus.
Fig.3 Autopsy revealed the absence of large portions of intestines.
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