OFF LEASH DOGS ATTACK – #THECONCLUSION

By Thursday, March 2, 2017 30 No tags Permalink

Wednesday I asked the question: “What would you do if an off leash dog attacks your dog?”

For many of us – it’s never happened, but after Doodle Dad’s encounter, I realize how vulnerable we all can be.

WHAT SHOULD WE DO? –

Interesting enough what I’d always planned to do is exactly what I read I’m NOT supposed to do –

Never get in the middle of a dogfight or attack Source: Vetstreet

Honestly, whenever I think about a dog attack scenario, I see myself like – Zena Warrior Doodle Mom. #kickingbutt

But now I’m realizing that may not be the smartest move in the playbook.

I found more than enough literature on this subject, but today, I will only hit what I call “useful highlights” of what I found when on my walks.

MANAGING CONFRONTATION FROM AN UNLEASHED DOG –

  • Know your neighborhood – if there’s a dog nearby constantly running the fence barking, lunging and acting a fool – that dog is really after yours. Change your route.
  • For loose dogs – get a bush, parked car, garbage can or something to place between you and the off leash dog. I loved this idea – carry an umbrella…

OFF LEASH DOGS ATTACK - #THECONCLUSION

 

  • As the unleashed dog approaches – open the umbrella which places a large barrier between your leashed dog and the loose dog. Open it and make it your shield. 
  • Use a loud, powerful voice – give the other dog a command he is likely to recognize like “down, sit, or go home.” Put your hand out in a “stop” signal to further your message.  Even though the dog may not do as he’s told, your real goal is to take his focus off of your dog.
  • Use a protective tool – some people find comfort in pepper, bear or citronella spray’s. Others like to bring along a walking stick. I’m not here to judge #byanymeansnecessary
  • Carry treats – meaty treats can be tossed away from you creating a distraction long enough for you to make a quick, calm         u-turn and move away.

AND NOW FOR THE REST OF THE STORY –

I left you “hanging” with Lee standing in the middle of the street forcing a truck to stop while trying to keep some distance between the angry “unaccompanied” dog and my Boys.

Lee said the car stopped and the driver motioned for him to cross completely because the dog was still coming…

OFF LEASH DOGS ATTACK - #THECONCLUSION

Once Doodle Dad and the Boys cleared the headlight of the truck, the driver eased his foot off the gas pedal just as the dog was approaching the other side of the vehicle. He laid on the horn and the dog jumped back.

Slightly startled, he regrouped and moved toward the street again. The driver moved forward and blasted his horn again.

Lee started walking slowly and the truck rolled along like a barge – preventing the other dog from crossing the street.

Eventually the dog retreated and disappeared.

Later that afternoon, as Doodle Dad piddled in the garage, the driver and his wife walked up to the house.

Together they talked about the angry dog.  What a surprise to find out the truck driver saw the dog barreling down the hill long before Lee saw the truck.

WHAT WOULD DOODLE DAD HAVE DONE? –

I asked him that and he told me he wasn’t quite sure. He only knew he wouldn’t have allowed the dog to hurt either Harley or Jaxson and I believe him. #airbornerangerguy

This (unfortunately) is too common a scenario to ignore. Please take some time and read about ways to prevent a confrontation to keep you AND your dogs safe.

The Boys are fine, not fazed one Doodle bit…

Better days are coming – they’re called Saturday & Sunday ❤️

DISCLAIMER: I am not a veterinarian nor a trainer. I’m a pet parent always interested in understanding more about my dogs.

GOOD READS –

30 Comments
  • Pedro & Alessandra
    March 3, 2017

    Great tips and big sigh of relief! Good to know that for every irresponsible dog owner that ignores the threat that his angry dog may pose, there is an angel in a red truck! Loving paws from Pedro to Harley and Jax and a special high five to Doodle Dad!

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 3, 2017

      Yes, he will forever be our Doodle Angel 🙂 Happy Weekend….

  • Callie, Shadow, and Ducky's Mom
    March 3, 2017

    Giant sigh of relief that the story ended well! Thank goodness for that angel in the red truck! Good thinking on Doodle Dad’s part, too!

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 3, 2017

      That truck will forever put a smile on my face whenever I see it. It also taught me that one day I may be able to repay the favor to someone else when I’m in my Doodle Mobile! Have a fabulous weekend my friend 🙂 – And as always, thanks so much for stopping by Doodleville!

  • Emma
    March 3, 2017

    The biggest problem is there are many things to do to stop the problem, but since it happens rarely, we don’t carry an arsenal of protection with us. Glad that driver helped out and kept the dog from getting you guys and your dad.

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 3, 2017

      That is so true! Emma, there are ton’s of recommendations for us, but I honestly don’t know all of them. I was glad to do the research and learn about options. Hugs to your sisters from my Boys.

  • Cathy Bennett
    March 3, 2017

    That is so true! Emma, there are ton’s of recommendations for us, but I honestly didn’t know all of them. I was glad to do the research and learn about options. Hugs to your sisters from my Boys.

  • Two French Bulldogs
    March 3, 2017

    This is one thing we are petrified of. Mom is constantly aware and scoping out areas to see if there are loose dogs. One ran at us one time. Mom screamed and kept kicking her foot in between the other dog and my brother Benny until the owner got control of his dog. Recently an off leash lab approached while the petsitter had us. The petsitter hit the other dog in the head with a doggy bag canister. It was snarling at us. Again the owner came and got control. NIGHTMARE
    Snorts,
    Lily & Edward

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 3, 2017

      That’s horrible 🙁 I would have been so scared, what a brave mom and petsitter you have. I pray I never have to encounter a loose “angry” dog, but it’s good to know a little something about how to get away. Have a safe and fun weekend!

  • Monika & Sam
    March 3, 2017

    That driver was very clever helping out like that! Good for you, the Doodle-dad and the boys. Love happy endings. While I love the idea of using an umbrella as a barrier, I don’t think I could handle one more thing (eagle eyes out for loose dogs, two leashes, poop bags-full and empty, etc.) without something unpleasant happening (most likely to me).

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 3, 2017

      I know exactly what you mean, while it sounds great in theory having two dogs could make it challenging. It’s a little better for me with the umbilical belt – my hands are free but still….

  • Claudette Pope
    March 3, 2017

    I am so glad that the story ended well. I really appreciate the suggestions for a safe walk. I like the umbrella suggestion. Thank you again for another wonderful informatove post.

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 3, 2017

      Awhhhh you’re welcome Claudette. It’s always fun to learn more things and then share! Have a great weekend 🙂

  • Hairballs and Hissyfits
    March 3, 2017

    glad it had happy ending- did you phone humane society to tell them about loose bad door wandering around? Would hate to think it will hurt another dog

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 3, 2017

      Here’s the thing, the dog has a home. He/she just gets out occasionally. The family has been reported to the home owners association as well. Nothing ever happens – because the dog is still in the home.

      • Hairballs and Hissyfits
        March 3, 2017

        that is horrible! i hate that – i thought homeowners associations were better than that – it will take someone to get bit and then sued before they do anythign

        • Cathy Bennett
          March 4, 2017

          I know – and that’s what’s so sad about it. Why does it have to go to that extent before rules are changed, enforced, followed. Baffles my mind…

  • Jan K
    March 3, 2017

    Thank goodness some help came along! The problem with things like this is that it can happen so fast, you barely have time to think.
    The time a loose dog charged at Cricket I didn’t even have time to react (or maybe I was in shock because the dog had been under control and then the woman LET IT GO). This was not an unfriendly dog, thank goodness, but all Cricket saw was a big dog running at her, and she reacted, and was ready to kick it’s butt if need be! So I had to get HER under control, while the woman caught up and got her dog.

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 4, 2017

      I know if it had of been me, I would have wet my pants! No joke. I really needed to write this post for my benefit – the research gave me a better understanding as far as what to look for and how to react. My prayer is that I never have to use any of the techniques I learned.

  • Kimberly Gauthier
    March 3, 2017

    I haven’t experienced aggressive off-leash dogs; only people. I really don’t know what I would do come to think of it. I don’t carry a deterrent. Thanks for sharing this story.

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 4, 2017

      It’s a really scary t thought, but I am glad I did the research for myself and to share. Much of what I read was all new to me. Prayers that you will never have that encounter.

  • Tiffany Bennett-Cuartero
    March 3, 2017

    What a great neighbor! Loved the story and Ranger Dad❤

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 4, 2017

      Ranger Dad was super cool. He’s making quite an impression with the neighbors now 🙂

  • M. K. Clinton
    March 4, 2017

    That must have been so frightening! I think the umbrella is a great idea. I’m so happy the Doodles and Doodle Dad are okay! ❤❤

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 4, 2017

      Thanks MK – I’m digging the umbrella idea myself. As long as I use the umbilical belt I think I can carry the umbrella because I’m hands free. So that’s a huge plus.

  • Hera's mom
    March 4, 2017

    Always enjoy reading your posts. Glad to hear you and your family are well. Miss you all!

    • Cathy Bennett
      March 4, 2017

      Thanks so much Hera’s Mom for being such a loyal reader. We appreciate you more than you can imagine. We are well, and we miss you too! Will definitely let y ou know when we reach VA again. ❤️

  • Cathy Armato
    March 5, 2017

    Wow, that was a scary story to read! What a lucky break that the truck came along and was willing to help/ That could have been one ugly scene. I often wonder what I’d do in a case like that. I love the umbrella idea. Thanks!
    Love & biscuits,
    Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them

  • Sandy Kubillus
    March 6, 2017

    I have had dogs run up to me since I used to walk 3.3 miles each way to work with my springer, Cassie. Usually I yell go home and raise my arms and they go away. But once a female pit bull came sniffing and her mate dashed across the street and attacked. I picked up Cassie (wrong thing to do) and the dogs kept attacking. Then I fell onto my back with Cassie on top of me. The pit bull had her jaws around Cassie’s throat and she looked terrified. I screamed and several men jumped out of their cars and beat the pit bulls off with landscaping timbers.

    Cassie was fine and I had to look hard for a puncture mark. I too was fine, although I wet my pants! The cops were called, but since there was no damage, they couldn’t file a report. Very scary!

  • Andrea @ This Pug Life
    March 8, 2017

    Luckily the pugs are small enough I can pick them up and over my head if need be. But, I know in that situation, doing the correct thing is HARD. My mom’s dog attacked Pug several years ago and even knowing the correct way my first instinct was to reach for his mouth…lost the tip of my index finger for that mistake.