I would be afraid to look around by myself. It also could have been a snake you didn't see, or the smell of a wild animal that had passed in that area. They say there are all kinds of animals in suburbia now. I know it sounds silly, but some dags are very sensitive to emotional vibes too. maybe someone had a bad argument in that spot. In any case, I would trust his instincts, and avoid that spot, or have someone with me to check it out.