Yeller defends the family, but is bitten in the struggle before Travis can shoot and kill the wolf. The family pens Yeller in a corn crib for several weeks to watch him. Soon when Travis goes to feed Old Yeller, Yeller growls and snarls at Travis. After Yeller nearly attacks Arliss, who, not understanding the danger, had attempted to open the cage, a grieving Travis is forced to shoot Yeller. In doing so, he takes his first step towards adulthood.
From your writing style, I'm guessing that there is a different, more accurate version of events than the one you present here. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure that there was a near-colision, and that a maniac was involved. That much, you've made clear.
GRAHAM! STOP YELLING!!!!!