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Exploring new territory on your bicycle can be dangerous when you cross into dog territory.
Like other animals, dogs mark their own territory and do not take kindly to cyclists, joggers, motorists or other intruders. If you enter a dog’s personal space, be ready for the dog to enter attack mode. Furious barking and snarls will warn you, and if you don’t leave immediately, the dog can launch an attack. This entails snapping at your heels and an attempt to bring you down. A dog attack can throw any cyclist off balance, and cause serious damages. Learning how to deal with dog attacks is an important safeguard to cycling. Children or inexperienced cyclists and dogs just don’t mix, and these riders should never be allowed to ride where dog attacks can happen.
Dogs tend to attack a cyclist from the back, usually from the hindquarter direction. Not all dogs, however, pursue their victims viciously. You can determine whether or not the dog has serious intentions to harm you by observing the gait of the dog. If the dog feels threatened, he will chase faster than normal. His tail will point downward, with open mouth and cocked ears.
If you see a dog approaching from any direction, make sure to guard the front wheel of your bicycle. If the dog unexpectedly lunges in front of you, it can cause a collision and a fall. Move to the farthest end of the road, and immediately ride away.
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Letting out a load-throated yell is another step to deal with an angry dog. This strategy can momentarily surprise the dog and cause him to hesitate. If successful, use the extra seconds and ride away as fast as practicable. If the dog, however, is still in attack mode, ball up your fists and shout angrily. Most dogs are afraid of human violence and may not run after someone who poses an apparent risk.
It’s essential to realize that you can’t always outrun a dog. Steep tracks or bumpy roads can cause a cyclist to make a particularly slow getaway. This is where a can of pepper spray can come in useful. The spray stings the eyes and nose of the dog, and stops him temporarily without causing any harm.
If all else fails, shout for help. If the dog is serious in his attack, guard yourself by placing the bicycle in between you the dog. Don’t attempt to kick the dog, as this may make you lose your balance. If you are attacked or are bitten, get medical aid immediately, report the incident to the police and lodge a complaint against the owners. The dog will need to be quarantined to validate if it is rabid.
Dogs and cyclists don’t always mix. Be prepared and learn how to react if you happen to cross a territorial dog.
Tagged with: cycling tour • road bikes
Filed under: Bikes