DAYS CREEK, Ore. -- A 39-year-old Sutherlin hunter was shot by a dog in Douglas County on Thursday, authorities said.

(kgw.com Graphic)

Yes, a dog.

Hunter Eddie Moss was sitting in his pickup truck about four miles up Fate Creek Road Thursday with a loaded rifle laying across his lap when another man, Darin Zyzniewski, walked up to the driver door and started talking to Moss.

"Moss' dog, who was in the cab, reportedly stepped on the rifle, causing it to discharge through the driver door, striking Zyzniewski in the left arm," said Douglas County Sheriff Chris Brown.

Moss, 59, administered first aid and drove Zyzniewski to a doctor in Canyonville. Zyzniewski was treated by staff at the doctor's office, then transported by ambulance to Mercy Medical Center in Roseburg.

“Though not illegal, it is not recommended to have a loaded rifle inside the cab of your vehicle and you should always make sure your muzzle is pointed in a safe direction,” Brown said.

The case is still under investigation and will be submitted to the District Attorney's Office for review.