Defend Yourself Against a Dog Attack: Quick & Effective Strategies

It’s a beautiful day and you decide to go for a run to the park.  You are enjoying your run when suddenly a stray dog appears and he does not look friendly.  He starts snarling at you and showing his teeth.  You know if you are not in control, he will attack you.  So how do you handle this situation? Remember an animal can sense fear.  If he feels you are threatened by him, he will attack you. 1-Stay calm and do not panic.  Screaming will aggravate the animal even more. 2-If the dog approaches you remain rigid and motionless. Keep your hands at your sides (clenched in a fist) and do not look at the animal in his eyes. 3-Our first instinct will be to run.  Do not run! He will chase you and attack you.   Dogs run faster than humans.  You wont stand a chance. 4-Pray that he loses interest in you.  If he does you are extremely lucky. What If The Animal Tries To Attack? This is where instinct will come into play. 1-Try to command the dog to back away from you.  Be stern and confident. 2-If he starts to attack fight back.  Kick him where it will hurt him the most and give a chance to escape.  You want to kick him in the nose, throat or back of his head. At this point you want people to hear you so yell to let others know what’s happening. 3-Use your weight as leverage to immobilize the animal. 4-If you fall down protect your vitals.  If you are bitten and start bleeding it could lead to death.  So tuck in your knees and cover your ears. You want to protect your face, chest and throat. Remain still. 5- Once the attack is over, try to walk away slowly. Treatment After An Attack 1-If you are bitten and bleeding, add pressure to the wound 2-Wash wound thoroughly with warm water and soap 3-Dress the wound with sterile bandages 4-If it is something that requires medical attention visit your doctor immediately.  Your doctor may need to check you for rabies. 5- Call the authorities and let them know there is a stray dog on the loose to protect animals and people. Remember to never judge. Even if a dog looks friendly, do not approach him.  Always think of your safety first.  Since you do not know him stay clear.