For abled bodied people, the pet carrier on a stroller is the answer, I feel. I am wondering how I could fit a pet carrier to my scooter. It certainly is the safest. I went out today with a heavy duty umbrella. I didn't have to use it, but I still did not enjoy the walk. MOST people do not walk their dogs on the leash and big dogs are really attracted to Yorkies - prey instinct. It means I am on constant lookout for dogs and cannot relax for a second. Owners saw my umbrella and that I was intending to use it on their dogs if the need arose and they called their dogs before they got too close. One man said 'why don't you let your dog run free' in a very critical way. I said 'because it is irresponsible' He asks 'WHY?!' I told him that you have not got complete control of your dog, if it is not on the lead. He replies 'Well, how on earth is your dog going to get any real exercise'. I said, 'You can run, jog or cycle next to your dog and I can go at a good enough speed.on my scooter to keep my dog fit. In any case', I said, ' there are signs put up here, telling you to keep your dogs on a leash.' He just shugged and walked off with his dogs running free ahead of him. Other owners, seeing my umbrella at the ready, said in a loud voice to their dogs variations of 'Keep away, they are not friendly.' Made me feel like an ogre. Honestly, why can't people understand my predicament? I have a small vulnerable dog and I am disabled on a scooter. It is difficult for me to protect her in my situation. They seem to feel it is fine for their dogs to come bounding over making straight for little Tootsy and look irritated if I shout at the dog, show signs that I intend to protect her or look frightened. It is very scary for me. These big breeds are frightening running at you when you are at a lower level to the ground, compared to being upright. It is hard finding a time over weekends when people are less likely to walk their dogs. I thought I had chosen a good time today, but there were still lots of dogs out. I was so relieved to get home. I hated the whole experience, which should be an enjoyable one for me and Toots, but, due to other peoples' sefishness and thoughtlessness, it is unpleasant.
Sorry I don't mean to be so grumpy - just a bad day out today. |