Ok you guys are going to think I'm a total wacko but I have such a big fear of having one of my babies stolen when I walk them that I always bring 2 fold-up knives wtih me. I keep a small one in my bra and a bigger one in my pocket. I pity the fool who tries to steal MY dogs.
My hubby always says knives are more dangerous than guns because they require you to get in CLOSE CONTACT with someone and you're more likely to get hurt in the process (that's why most people use guns). I told him I am fully prepared to defend my babies even at the risk of getting injured.
Heck, I HAVE gotten into a phsyical fight to protect my babies once. It was when Codie was a baby and I was walking him home from the groomers. Well this woman was in her front yard planting flowers. She wanted to pet him and I said no because her hands were FILTHY and Codie just got a bath and a trim (plus, he's a WHITE dog). She got all pissed, called me a snobby b*tch and came out of her yard and tried to KICK him!!
(Keep in mind Codie was only a baby and about 3 lbs at the time) I won't go into details but let's put it this way, people passing by had to stop and pull me off her because I had her on the floor and I was slamming her head with a garbage can cover!
I'm not a violent person by nature (I try to avoid situations when I can) but don't EVER put your hands on one of my babies and think I will just stand by and allow it to happen.