Walking our dogs has become a dangerous task. We want to exercise our dogs but become limited as to where we can do so. Dog parks, cities, and counties all have regulations as to leash laws and courtesy to others. Dogs are required to have rabies shots and other health measures.
Recently a woman was walking her dog in downtown Bozeman. Her small dog was leashed, and she was on a public sidewalk. Suddenly a large, unleashed, dog approached and attacked her dog. She was carrying a can of Bear Spray/pepper spray and fired the spray onto the attacking dog.
If anyone has ever discharged a can of pepper/bear spray, you know that everyone and everything gets sprayed. The owner of the attacking dog finally approached, and upon seeing what was happening, instead of dealing with his aggressive pet, he took the bear spray from the woman and sprayed her in the face while screaming, “how do you like it?” The authorities were called, and this dog owner was immediately arrested.
Dog attacks are too common. Dog parks are becoming a place where dogs share diseases and aggressive dogs attack others. Simple sidewalk strolls turn into dog fights because irresponsible pet owners fail to close gates, have fencing, or control collars on their pets.
One of my friends was walking their German Shorthaired Pointer on a leash, when an aggressive pit bull attacked her and the dog. The pit bull owner had no fence or control of his dog. Both the woman and her Shorthair required surgery. The hunting dog was physically unable to hunt again.
There are too many of these sad stories. Not everyone is a responsible dog owner. All pet owners must prepare and anticipate an attack when walking their dogs. A leashed dog is unable to run away from a dangerous situation, and the owner may or may not be able to protect their dog from potential harm.
So, how can you protect your trained and leashed dog? Some walkers carry a sidearm. Shooting a threatening and aggressive dog, snake, or critter can happen. If shooting is the last resort, injuries are severe or deadly.
Pepper spray /bear spray can cause severe allergic reactions in dogs and adults. The chemicals and propellants can be caustic and injure all involved. The last thing a loving pet owner wants to do is injure another pet.
A walking stick or cane can discourage an aggressive threat but will also cause injury. Kicking or physical engaging will likely result in bites and scratches.
Some people carry water guns. A direct spray of water can surprise the dogs and break up the attack or fight. Other propellant sprays are useful.
Having a dog harness offers better control than a collar, which can slide off the pet’s neck. A harness also has a handle which offers a place to grab your dog for better control.
A new product called Pet Safe Spray Shield holds a strong aerosol propellant that shoots a direct stream up to 10 feet, for up to 12 seconds. The chemical deterrent is a buffered Citronella, which is disliked by dogs, and critters, and can be effective during a low to medium aggressive attack. Aim at the snout and mouth of the aggressive dog. The 2.4 oz. small can of spray has a slide safety which can be operated with one hand, while your other hand is holding the leash. This tested product works as well as pepper spray without delivering much blowback spray onto the user. The can also has a built-in clip so it can be attached to the leash or the owner’s pocket for each access. The last thing you want to do is root around a purse or bag searching for the can!
With this product, a severe attack may be slowed or discouraged. It is not for human protection. The cost is around $10 per can. Stationing the cans around the home/yard is also a good idea for occasional issues with dogs living in the same house. Having a can near the dog walk leash is a good idea.
This product has a history of success in breaking up dog fights at home and afield. A quick and accurate spray will not be lethal and can prevent injury. It is always a good idea to practice using the spray in a safe location so you can be familiar with how to operate it and the range and force of the spray. You don’t want to be a crisis situation where you’re fumbling with the can – time is critical.
The other thing that a pet owner has control of is where you walk your dog and when. Be familiar with the neighbor dogs in your area. If some dogs seem aggressive, notify authorities and avoid those areas. Early and late evening walks are more comfortable for you and the pets. Other unattended pets will more likely be in their homes or fences. If you see other dogs or threats, pick a safer path.
In public areas where dogs can be off leash for training or hunting, have a training collar on your dog for instant control at a distance. Be alert for other dogs, skunks, porcupines, and snakes. An off-leash dog needs to instantly respond to your commands.
When I take my dogs afield and off leash, I have a first aid kit, towels, and support gear in an emergency bag. Whether there is a scratch, rip, or injury, I can administer aid and transport my dog to the closest vet.
Pre-scout the area where you may be able to find your injured pet quickly. 24-hour Emergency Vets could save your dog’s life after a severe injury, snakebite, or attack.
I also safely carry a side arm as a line of last defense. Be aware that on a sidewalk or solid surface, a bullet can ricochet and cause greater injury. You could also fatally injure your pet.
Walk your pets safely and responsibly!
Montana Grant
