Even if there’s no skull penetration, I would think there’s still a significant concussive effect with might stun the animal long enough to get you out of there
My first round “up” in a 38Spl revolver is a “multiplex” 5 (or 3) lead pellet cartridge.
Fired first, it gives a moment to align one’s [second]
sight picture—while incapacitating the assailant’s aim and/or weapon.