Have you ever been walking your dog and had a jogger come up behind you without warning? Or have you come across a dog who is leash aggressive and sets your dog off? Imagine if you were impaired or disabled and you and your working service dog came across a group of large dogs…all on fully extended, retractable leashes… and one of the dogs bit your dog?
According to a report by the local NBC affiliate, 12 News, that’s exactly what happened to Andrew Armstrong’s service dog, Smitty.
The story goes on to say that service dogs are “adorable and approachable,” but the trainers of these intelligent and talented animals would disagree. Service dogs carry out a myriad of tasks for people with all types of needs. Some alert to seizures or blood sugar levels; some aid the blind; and some, like Smitty, not only perform physical tasks, they are confidants and friends, providing much needed emotional encouragement
A service dog that is attacked could put their owner at risk of losing their freedom and could put an end to the career of the dog, because a fearful service dog could turn out to be undependable.
So, if you encounter someone with a dog wearing a service vest, do not approach them or do anything to interrupt the dog performing their job of guarding and guiding their owner. If you are walking your dog or dogs, cross the street or move out of the way and let them pass safely without distraction.
Other things to consider while walking your dog or dogs, whether you encounter a service dog, or simply another person walking their dog:
- Keep your dog off of people’s property; stick to the sidewalk or pathway. It’s common courtesy!
- Pick up the Poo! Always be prepared and carry plastic bags. It’s easy to do: simply put your hand inside the bag, use your fingers to scoop up the pile, turn your hand upright, and close the bag. Be sure to discard it in trash receptacles for that purpose. In many neighborhoods and parks there are bags and cans at comfort stations. Use them!
- Be in control of your animal at all times! A dog at the end of a fully retracted leash provides you no control of your dog. Keep your dog close and if you have multiple dogs, consider walking them one at a time.
- Be considerate of others. Not everyone is a dog lover and if they are jogging or bicycling, they will probably not be thrilled to have your dog run after them. Again…keep control of your animals.
- Consider the other dogs you encounter. They may not be friendly or they may be leash aggressive. My Rosie loves people and other dogs, but when she’s on a leash, she turns into Cujo! If I encounter another dog, I turn around and walk the other way.
- The City of Phoenix has a mandatory leash law, so always have your dog on a leash. This rule is not only to protect the public, but having your dog on a leash provides safety for them as well. Should your dog see something of interest (such as a rabbit), if they are on a leash they won’t be able to bolt out onto the street and risk being hit by a car.
Enjoy your walks, but be considerate of other people and their pets in the process.
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