My son learnt a very good lesson today about dogs and their behaviour. We recently moved onto a rural private road and went for a walk today to the end of the street. My 7yr old on his bike and 1yr old in the pushchair. When we got to the end a dog started barking and growling. I assummed it was locked up but my instincts kicked in as I heard the barking get closer. I turned the pushchair away from the driveway and told my son to get behind me. We had nowhere to go as the dog came barreling down continuing to bark and growl. As I had been attacked by two bull mastiffs when I was twelve I anticipated what was going to happen so I didnt panick as much as I thought I would have. My son began wincing behind me which made my heart stop so then I did the only thing I could think of. I started to sweet talk the dog. She wasnt sure at first but then paused but continued toward us again. I put my hand out as she came close and she let her guard down a bit more. Her tail gently wagged and I knew I had an in. She let me pat her and I continued for about 3 mins until I felt it ok to let my son put his hand out for her to sniff. Thankfully the situation didnt eventuate to anything but my son asked why I made him stand behind me in which I answered. You are smaller than me and the easiest target. I would die before she got thru me. Your brother is covered in the pushchair and she didnt know he was there. I then told him what to do if he was alone and that ever happened. The foetal position is your best bet I feel. Knees up, cover your head to show submission so the dog thinks he is boss. I told him the first thing a dog would do is grab a limb and try to shake you to the ground. You cant outrun him so you may as well. Ill never forget my ordeal as a child as I still have the scars to remind me. Talking to my son made me think if things like this are taught in school. With all the dog attacks I think it would be worth it.
Posted on: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 10:26:18 +0000