A few years back I had a little Shih Tzu that I walked at least twice a day. We were attacked by a dog and it was awful. I had never been afraid of dogs or any animal at anytime in my life until that happened. Now I am always on the watch for dogs, kids or anything that might come near Gracie.
One of the members here that has also had an attack carries a large umbrella that has one of those push button openers. She has used it on different occasions to stop large dogs that have charged her and her little guy. I started to carry one also, especially when we walk at a nearby park that has some nice trails that go out into a wooded area. Sometimes people let their dogs off lead and you never know when one will come running up to you.
If you can carry mace that is a good idea but if the wind is blowing you cannot count on it to protect you. It could actually blow back into your face. It is another option to have with you though. The umbrella opening surprises the dog and it also creates a barrier between your dog and the one coming at it. Since it cannot see your dog anymore it is confusing to the approaching animal.
My Gracie loves her walks and I won't deprive her of it so I figure I should have as many things I can carry to protect her! |