The weather is warm and everyone is out and about - including our canine friends! You’re out walking along – alone or taking your own dog for a walk – and you spot a stray or loose dog at a distance. A fight between both dogs could easily ensue – with you and your pet getting bit or injured in the process. Often, the confrontation comes on unexpectedly. The neighborhood is quiet, until you hear a dog barking and see it running out of an open door, escaping from the yard, or getting away from a distracted owner. To handle the situation, be ready with these tips:
If you are alone:
- Stay calm and send unthreatening signals like yawning, avoiding eye contact, letting the dog approach to sniff, and licking your lips.
- Do not act dominant.
- If an attack starts, try to fend off the animal with a stick, bag, or anything else you can grab. Leave the scene by backing away from the dog while avoiding eye contact. If a bite occurs, get to a hospital immediately for medical evaluation.
If you are with your dog:
- Do not get in the middle. Dogs will escalate quickly. Try to focus on keeping your own dog calm and under your control. Go to the other side of the street or behind a parked car. Running will cause the other dog to chase. Also try using the “sit” or “stay” voice command.
- Utilize your air horn or whistle if you carry one.
- Even if a confrontation doesn’t happen, observe the other dog’s body language from afar - rigid with ears tucked back. Try to keep your dog under control. Use another route if needed.
- Alert the neighbors by making loud noises if you need help.
Dog bite law in Connecticut is strict liability meaning that unless you are trespassing or taunting the dog, the owner is liable for the dog’s actions.
