Welcome to Getting Fit at Fifty

My name is Art Davis and I started running in 2007 to lose weight. Check out my before and after photos at the bottom of the page. I ran my first 5K and 10K in 2007 I went on to run my first half Marathon and full Marathon in 2008.























Tuesday, February 19, 2013

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?

4 comments:

  1. Son of a gun! It's a shame we runners can't have a peaceful outing without Fydo showing up to harrass us. You know Art i need some mace too! Thanks for the tips buddy!!

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  2. I bought some Joggers Mace at a local Army Surplus Store. You can also get it on Amazon.com. It is designed to fit in the palm of your hand.
    Art

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    Replies
    1. Yeah, I don't have any tips on this, but as a runner, I can relate. We also have to be on the look-out for drivers who don't follow the rules of the road.

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    2. Thanks for the comment, I have nearly been hit a few times.
      Art

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