Avoiding Dog Bites

 

“Don’t let the same dog bite you twice” – Chuck Berry

Recently while I was running outside I noticed a rather large dog running loose. To avoid the dog I immediately turned down a side street. This was probably not a good idea as the dog had already spotted me and I probably looked like prey running from it. The dog was barking and charging after me. I was scared and looking for something to use to defend myself. I do not know why but the dog suddenly stopped pursuit and turned around. I was listening to music on my headsets so it was possible that the dog’s owner had called it home. I have since purchased Jogger’s mace, to use as a last result to avoid getting bit. I researched avoiding dog bites on the web and here is what I have learned:

1)      Stand tall, facing the dog and slowly calmly back away

2)      Watch the dog out of the corner of your eye without making direct contact

3)      Use a deep firm voice to convey calm use the commands “no” and “sit”

4)      Stay relaxed and use an upright posture to give a sense of authority

5)      Never approach a stray dog

6)      Don’t run from a stray dog

7)      Never turn your back on a stray dog

8)      Last resort spray the dog with mace

9)      If the dog attacks try to stay on your feet, if he knocks you down curl into a ball to protect your vital organs

Any suggestions to avoiding dog bites?