A: Its not uncommon to encounter a stray dog when you are out walking your own dog.
Stray dogs – dogs that have been abandoned and are homeless or dogs that are running loose without an owner – are a growing problem nationwide. More than 500,000 dogs are lost or abandoned every month across the country. Some are reunited with their owners and others are picked up by animal control authorities, but some become feral and can pose a threat to humans and their companion animals.
We all know it is the responsibility of dog owners to care for, train, and look after their dogs, but we also know this does not always happen. So what should you do if you encounter a stray dog while out walking?
Never approach a stray dog. Strays are usually hungry, thirsty, sometimes injured – and almost always frightened. They could also carry disease. There are too many unknown factors with a stray dog; it’s simply not worth the risk.
Carry food as a distraction: Carry treats or a pocket full of dog kibbles along with you. Because strays are almost always hungry, you can use the food to take the dog’s attention off of you and your dog. Throw the food far away from you so the dog focuses on the food while you walk in the opposite direction. Kibbles work especially well as the dog will forage to find every bit.
- Don’t try to run. Stand still.
- Hold your arms close to your sides, and don’t move.
- Keep your eyes focused downward and watch the stray with your peripheral vision.
- Don’t stare at the dog. He could interpret this as a threat.
- Let the dog sniff you if he wants, but do not stick your hand out as this can be interpreted as a threat.
- When the dog leaves, do not turn your back on the dog. Back away slowly, so you can keep an eye on the dog.
After the dog has gone, call the animal control authorities in your area. By doing so, you will give the dog the best chance for survival by getting him off the streets into a safe place. He might even be reunited with his owner, or find a new one.