It’s a picturesque spring morning and you are enjoying a quiet walk around the neighborhood with your canine bestie when all of a sudden another off leash dog, coyote or other wildlife is running towards you. In a instant your body goes on alert and your mind is racing as you prepare for what every dog owner fears. While each circumstance is different, quickly assessing the situation and the possible impending danger and having a mental list of possible response tactics can help prepare you to make level-headed decisions when every second counts. You should never get in the middle of a dog fight or attack. Instead, it is important to have the tools to prevent or break up an altercation without injury to yourself or your dog.

  • While out walking your dog, always be aware of your surrounding situation. The earlier you spot an off-leash dog or other animal approaching, the easier it is to prevent.
  • Take notice of a dogs body language. When an off-leash canine or other animal approaches you in a purposeful manner it is important to stay calm. This may be easier said than done, but the calmer you are, the calmer your dog will be. That intense body language usually means they are fixated on your dog and might view them as a threat or a prey animal that they should go after.
  • If there is enough distance between you and the other animal you should quickly walk in another direction.
  • Bring treats on your walk to throw at an oncoming dog while staying focused on your dog. This gives you time to walk away when the dog is looking for the treat.
  • Carry the GETGONE and protect yourself and your dog. The sound is alarming, scary and intimidating and can be used from a distance to prevent an attack.

Every year approximately 4.7 million dog bites occur – most of these are minor and require no medical attention. One out of sixty nine people will be bitten by a dog each year. Eighty percent of these happen at home, leaving the other twenty percent occurring in unfamiliar situations. Do your part as a pet owner and always walk your dog on a leash. We have leash laws to protect us from being chased or bitten by another dog. Off-leash dogs are more tempting to coyotes, racoons and other wild animals. The most important thing is to be prepared, have a plan, practice it and hopefully never have to use it.