It’s a very good thing to take your dog for a daily walk because it gives him something to look forward to, blows away the cobwebs and it’s mentally and physically good for both of you. But it’s a very bad thing to go for a walk where there is a chance you could be the victim of a vicious dog attack.

This one’s not only for would-be walkers but also for the selfish, stupid people who don’t care about you or your dogs’ welfare. Yes Sir, I’m talking about YOU who leaves gates open, drives off without checking the automated gate behind you or has a DIY fence, patched up with rusty chicken wire which your dogs scramble over, under or through to get at pedestrians who are going for their daily walk. Shame on you! It’s really so sad because you inconsiderate people are putting your own dogs at risk as well as contributing to canine gangsterism and dog attacks, resulting in about 80 000 dogs having to be euthanized in our country every year!

How to prevent being terrorized whilst walking your dog

And to you good citizens out there, please telephone offenders and inform them their dogs are on the road and request they secure them on their properties. You may also like to drop words like Expert Witnesses, Law Suit, and Hundreds of Thousands of Rands, into the conversation!
If pussyfooting fails … it’s the good old Metro Police again. Have all the facts ready… addresses, description of dogs, times etc., follow up in writing and keep hounding them. Another tragedy is another too many.

And if your dog does get attacked, please drop your lead and give him a fair chance to get away! Don’t hang onto his leash for ‘grim death’ - just let go unless you’re on a busy highway.

If you are the victim of a dog attack:

• Don’t scream, panic or thrash about - try to remain calm, stationary and upright.
• A big stick, a big voice, a big threat and nerves of steel - a dog won’t ‘fight’ if he thinks he’ll lose.
• Use Pepper Spray but do make sure the wind is blowing away from you.
• Carry a cattle prod or stun gun but you will need to get up really close.

If you want to take your dogs for a walk but are afraid of being attacked by loose dogs, my advice is DO NOT go there. Rather drive your dogs to a safe place or neighbourhood where you can walk without being at risk.

PS. To the guy up my street who owns the fancy mansion, the fat white Bullterrier and the dilapidated fence - do something about your dog Mister because I have to take a detour every morning!