This writer and her daughter spent a day walking with reindeer in Alaska

Reindeer ranch's liability waiver should have been a red flag, author writes.

Her daughter was nearly 8 years old on that August afternoon last summer .

Unlike most deer species, both male and female reindeer grow antlers.

The ranch's visit coincided with the start of the rut when males clash in an attempt to establish dominance.

The author and her daughter were visiting a reindeer ranch in California when they encountered a family member.

The ranch's dog barked at the woman, but when she approached, it leapt to its feet, hackles raised.

George charged the fence, snarling insults at the dog, yanking on the young employee leading him.

The leash tangled around the employee’s neck and tightened as she fell to her knees.

She clawed at it, eyes wide. For a horrible moment I wondered if we were about to witness murder.