Dog Attack (Averted)

Neil and I were out walking yesterday. All was well. We were strolling along and then I heard a man yelling back behind us. I turned around and saw him across the street with two large black dogs, both on leashes. He must have accidently dropped one of the leashes and one of the dogs started running after us at full speed dragging his leash behind him! The dog paused for a moment (hearing his owner) and then kept after us. I froze! Was this dog friendly? Or would he attack my dog? Even from a distant I could see that the hair on his back was up and he didn’t look very friendly. I wasn’t going to take any chances. I quickly lifted Neil up as high as I could. The dog was right there beside me. He was very aggressive, trying to jump up and snapping. Fortunately, I am not afraid of dogs (good because they can smell fear). I said, “down, down, go home,” as forcefully and as confidently as I could, turning away from him. The dog finally turned and went home. Meanwhile the owner was still yelling for the dog to come, but the man never left his driveway. I kept walking while still holding Neil in my arms. My heart was pounding and my hands were shaking. Thank God Neil didn’t get hurt. I wasn’t even concerned about myself, only Neil. I can’t even imagine what could have happened if I hadn’t lifted him up. Maybe the other dog would have settled down and been fine. On the other hand, he could have bitten, or worse, even attacked Neil. I will never know, but I am glad I didn’t take that chance.

Neil