Keeping Safe: Stray Dogs

Why are stray animals a problem?

Stray dogs are dogs that are running loose, without an owner, or homeless. Strays can be large or small. Any dog can be a stray. Most strays are pets that have gotten out of their houses or yards. Often, stray dogs are lost or abandoned (homeless) and they have no one to care for them.

Strays are usually hungry, thirsty, lonely, and sometimes hurt. Stray dogs are scared. Stray animals can carry and spread disease. They may bite people.They can cause traffic accidents. Now you know why stray dogs are a problem. Don't stop to play with a homeless dog, because you could get hurt.

Here's what you should do if you are approached by a stray dog:

If you are standing:

Be a tree. Stand still like a tree. Hold your branches (your arms) close to your side or fold them across your chest, and don't move. Look down at your roots (feet). You are making your body into the shape of a tree. Don't run away and especially don't move your arms. Let the dog sniff you if he wants. Don't stare at the dog's eyes. When the dog goes away, you may back up slowly so you can still keep an eye on him.

If you are lying down, or have been knocked down by a dog:

Act like a stone. Cover your face and head with your arms, keep your legs together, and pull your knees up. You are making your body into the shape of a stone or a big ball. Don't get up and don't move until the dog has gone away.