Oh, I hate this for you!! I am constantly telling my little girl, Don't pet anybody's doggie except ours. She loves dogs, and if I see that look...I ask the owner, does it bite, may she pet it??? If they say yes, it bites, it crushes my daughter, but we understand. People always ask us when we are out and about, and I like that. I don't want some stranger petting without permission!! I feel so sorry for you and Harley!