Dog defense 2

Of course, it is illegal to carry an offensive weapon; so its probably not on to take a machette to the park. But one of the problems of the arrogant, selfish and care-less dog owner is they leave dog shit behind them. Illegal, of course, but they don't care.

To use the park, you might need to take a dog-shit-stick with you.

Here's one:

Now, the beauty of this is that if a dog does attack you, the handy grass-cutting tines will discourage the attacking dog. Remember, do not swing this at the dog, like a club, thrust it, like a spear. Use either end, of course. The blunt end attempt to ram it down the dog's throat; the sharp end...anywhere.

Dog law

A selection of signs you can lobby your local council (in NSW: Companion Animals Act) to erect. Better than the small typeface overly detailed regulation signs they usually use.

Defence against dogs

From a great article on Lifehacker:

If an unfamiliar dog approaches you, do not run, panic or make loud noises. Stay motionless, keeping the side of your body facing the dog while avoiding direct eye contact. Say things like “No” or “Go Home” in a deep, firm voice and slowly raise your hands to cover your neck while keeping your elbows in. Now wait for the dog to leave or begin to slowly back away.

If the dog charges you, it’s still important to stand as still as possible. As Dr Sofia Yin, DVM, MS, explains, dogs charge for one of two reasons: Either because they are scared and know offence is their best defence, or because you or another person in the vicinity did something that excited them and made them think they’re being rewarded. People’s pets can get caught in a self-reinforced feedback loop where they “play” a little too hard and don’t know any better. If you yell and move around frantically, the dog will think you’re playing along and won’t stop.

If the dog is clearly being aggressive, not playing (growling, snarling, barking), or obviously feral (dirty, no collar, not reacting to commands), Yin recommends you try and put something between you and the animal. A backpack, purse, jacket or even a shoe can make for a great shield. Look at the dogs’ body language so you can prepare to block attacks. Tension in the body, raised hackles (the hair along the dog’s back) and ears that are flat against their head are things to watch for.

One of the comments is helpful:

Clyff Guest

SEPTEMBER 14, 2016 8:28 AM

If you do have a stick, best to poke like a spear towards the dog, not swing. Aim (if at all possible) to thrust the stick down the dog's throat.
In NSW the law permits one to injure, destroy or seize an attacking dog; attacking is defined as rushing at, harassing, etc. Its in the Companion Animals Act. Unfortunately there's nothing you can do about the owner of an off leash dog except complain to your local council. The fine for off-leash is about $1000, from memory.

Dogs can kill

I'm awaiting the day when someone takes advantage of provisions in the the Companion Animals Act and kills an attacking dog. Owners have to wake up to their responsibilities: people's safety is far more important than dogs'.

Let's not enforce dog laws

And here's what happens:

How to stop it:
Well, you can't. But you can try.
Every dog owner at registration gets a leaflet on the law.
At every vet visit the vet has to give the same leaflet.
At every caravan park, camp ground and holiday letting, the agent or owner must also give the leaflet to any dog owners.
That's a start.
Of course, the best way is for non-dog handlers to carry a rifle, and use it as necessary for the suppression of dogs of leash.
That's the fun way.

Attack inevitable!