The fearsome stray canine companions can pose real problems to the runners and cyclists (as well as postman and other delivery people or sometimes even the plain pedestrians). It is difficult to ascertain whether the approaching dog is vicious or not. A dog is particularly disturbed or attracted by rapid movements, especially when a stranger is crossing the area what the dog regards as his territory. Mostly a dog will just be motivated by a curiosity or even friendliness and back-off quickly. But caution is the best medicine.
Here is what you should do:
1. Never turn back and run, rather stop and face the animal. In an attempt to outrun the dog you may just aggravate its attack instincts.
2. Stand your ground firmly, dogs respond and react well and are sensitive to verbal commands. Say “No”, “Sit” or “Go” or try whistling to distract and calm the animal down. Do not scream and make any aggressive move. If you stay still the dog may just sniff and move away.
3. If at all the dog jumps over you, fall on the ground and curl up into a wall, lie tight until the dog is calmed. Wait till it walks away then back away slowly.
4. If you are riding a motor bike or a bicycle, get off and put it between you and the dog.
5. If you are harassed along your route by the same dog very often, persuade the local people or the owner to keep the animal chained. If it’s a stray, report to the authorities or the municipality.
6. Carrying any one of these can be handy: A dog repellent as ground pepper in aerosol form or a device that emits high frequency sound waves, audible only to dogs such as Dazer.
