How To Handle An Unleashed Dog

You’re on a walk with your dog when an unleashed dog comes barreling toward you. What do you do? How do you keep yourself safe and avoid an attack?

While not all situations like this will result in an attack, many do. The dog may seem friendly at first, but then see your dog and want to maul it. Or maybe the dog will suddenly go in another direction.

You can never tell, which is why you need to be prepared. What should you do when an unleashed dog is coming in your direction? Here are some tips to keep in mind.

Be Alert

You should always be aware of your surroundings while walking your dog. Look for dogs and other hazards in your path. Don’t be caught off guard; that’s when accidents happen.

Walk Away

This may work for some, but not all, dogs. By simply walking away and not engaging, the unleashed dog may look for someone else to pay them attention. Just be calm while doing so. Tightening the leash on your dog will give the impressions that you are scared.

Use Your Body

Place a barrier between the off-leash dog and your dog with your body. Step in between them, put your hand out, and yell “No!” or “Go home!” This will block the dog and even may prompt it to back away. Stay between the two dogs and guide your dog out of the area.

Carry Treats 

When a loose dog is approaching you, you can tell them to sit or stop. If they obey you, you can reward them with treats. You and your dog can then take off while the dog is distracted. You may even throw some treats at their face to startle them. However, using treats can backfire, causing dogs to see you as a food source.

Carry a Deterrent Spray

A deterrent spray can come in handy when dealing with an aggressive dog or even break up a dog fight. However, you should use a citronella-based spray, since they don’t harm canines. Pepper spray, however, can be very painful, so avoid using it. Plus, it can make a dog even more aggressive, which would defeat the purpose.

Use an Umbrella 

If you don’t want to carry a spray, you can opt for an umbrella. Many vets and other animal experts swear by its use. With a push-button umbrella, you can pop it open as the dog is making contact with you. It will scare away the dog while creating a physical barrier.

Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Dog attacks often happen suddenly, but you should certainly try to prevent them if you can. Nobody wants to deal with lacerations, scars, broken bones, disfigurement, and other injuries.

Have you been injured in a dog attack? If so, count on help from an experienced Morristown dog bite injury attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff. We’ll work closely with you throughout the legal process and help you get the best outcome. Schedule a free consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (973) 455-1567.

Resource:

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