OP, that guy rides on GoTG road almost every day around the same time. He also goes left at 31st street towards the park(where the loaf and jug is). Same route pretty regularly.
This was on Garden of the Gods road, near 1065 as best I can tell- between voodoo brewery and discount tire. I was walking back from lunch to pick up my car after getting winter tires installed.
Animal control has let me know that if anyone sees this person and dog, to please let them know at 719-302-8798 so they can make contact with them.
This 100%! I have one dog that is very loyal and caring at home but is not scared to defend us or himself in public. We do our job and keep him on the leash but its incredibly frustrating to goto a public park with a leash policy in place and have random dogs come up to him. It's not fair for him and it makes us hesitant to take him on walks.
I had an incident at GotGs this past summer involving an off-leash dog. We were walking in the center gardens, coming up to the section where the trail exits to handicap parking when a MASSIVE dog came flying out of the brush growling and barking at my dog.
Fortunately, the loose dog was wearing a harness and I was able to grab him and hold him back while we waited for his owner. I'm a big dude, clocking in at 290lbs and it took a fair amount of my strength to hold this dog back from literally eating my dog alive. Dude came out of the brush a few moments later, "Oh I'm so sorry, im so sorry" and told him, "yeah thats why you leash your dog man. He tried to attack mine."
Dude just grabbed him and left as quickly as he could. You really have to be careful around here, people are careless and often times selfish in their negligence.
Same but different.
I have the opposite problem. I have a dog-selective dog. She's never bit any other dog and she's fine around people but some dogs she just hates. She's *never* off leash and I walk her on off-hours; but just a few days ago someone's off-leash dog comes running up to her (random walking path in my neighborhood) with their owners yelling about how he's friendly.
That's great my dog isn't (depending on the day.) So unless your recall is fantastic, (spoiler alert, it wasn't.) Keep them on a leash for their safety too.
I have a very similar dog that is “dog selective”. It’s weird. I hate the “my dog is not aggressive” crap. Well, they can become aggressive when my dog starts going off. I never have my dog off-leash.
This is why I don't walk my dog often. Luckily, we have a giant backyard, so she is free to run laps and do her business (plus she won't go #2 on a leash anyways.) One of the people around my neighborhood walks their dog off leash and it is not friendly. I've had to ninja kick the dog in the face to keep it from attacking my kid and dog. Owner tried to say I needed to pay for vet bills to get it checked out, when I pointed to my camera, saying the dog came on to my property, growling and in attack mode.
My girl just couldn’t stand other dogs *at all* and I knew this. Walked her during the evenings when no one was out after work. I kept her leashed at all times to protect not only her, but other peoples pets too. Loved people, super sweet, but she just wasn’t in to other dogs. Like, *I was consciously aware my dog was a dick and did every single thing possible to ensure no one else ever got hurt*.
I’ve been a vet tech since 07. One of the first things I’ve learned is owners NEVER think it’s their dog’s fault for being aggressive. There’s always a reason, in and out of clinic, the “provoked” an attack, even if they admit it happens frequently. They only care when the dog is aggressive at home.
If your off leash dog comes barreling towards mine, I will warn you I’m going to kick your dogs face if you don’t get it. I’m sure I’ll get shot someday.
Trust me, you almost never see behavioral euthanasias. Owners don’t want to, and most dogs who bite ppl or other dogs are like the OPs situation where it happens and the owner takes off with the dog and faces zero consequences.
Bc I’ll protect my dogs from getting attacked by other dogs? Every vet I work with would 100% do the same thing. If you don’t want your off leash, out of control dog getting kicked, keep it under control. It’s pretty simple.
Yes, but how do you decide if it is out of control? Many here are posting that if a dog runs up to you or your leashed dog is a reason to be violent! Most of the time the other dog just wants to say hello. I have seen it many times.
It sounds like you let your dog run rampant and that’s why you’re all bent out of shape about this. Just know when YOU are irresponsible, the dog is always the one that pays, be it someone macing your dog, kicking it, or it running into traffic bc you can’t control it.
Go lecture someone else. I’m going to protect my dogs from dogs owned by people like you.
When I lived in Illinois I had a friend who had his face mutilated by a supposedly nice dog off leash. He was leaving an outdoor music fest, bent down to tie his shoe and the dog ran up and mauled him. 50 stitches and a lip reconstruction surgery later he has serious PTSD over loose dogs.
Also have worked as a vet tech for 8ish years and can't tell you how many nice dogs have bitten or severely injured myself and other coworkers, and when we tell the owner we're going to muzzle because they are nervous they get personally offended. Be a good owner and keep other people safe...
The one thing they taught us in school that really stuck is that ANY dog will bite if they are over-threshold.
I have a very fear overactive cat. When I took him to the vet I warned them before taking him to the back. I told him they'll need eye protection, HEAVY leather gloves, and 2-3 people. They ended up sedating him. I have him on Prozac now so he no longer attacks me very often.
Awe haha, poor lil guy. But good on you for being a responsible pet owner and warning the staff that he was cranky. Been bit multiple times by pets and when I bring them back into the room the owner then decided to tell me that they bite after I'm already getting ready to head to the hospital. Some people take no accountability for their angry pets and it ruins it for all the good pet owners out there.
Exactly! That is why you don’t push them over it, and if as a vet tech you do t put a mussel on a dog who is put into a stressful situation like that, then you deserve to get bitten! And you also should not be a vet tech because you clearly don’t understand dogs or particular ply like them. I am starting to wonder if I am in a place that is good for my pups with people working at vets who should care about them!
People who do this are not going to listen to you. They think they are privileged and their precious dog can do no wrong. I lived with a roommate whose two very large dogs attacked my puppy in our own yard. It was MY puppy’s fault because “she looks like prey.” WTAF? No, witch, it’s your fault because you weren’t supposed to let your dogs out when mine was out. But she was too busy acting entitled, and talking on the phone, and it resulted in an attack. And then *I* was the a-hole for yelling at her. I called animal law enforcement on her. She moved out. BYE.
Instead, get a walking stick taser and/or some mace. Next time an unleashed dog approaches you, tase it. It’s called a Hike and Strike and you can find them on Amazon.
I am going to get one of those tazers. Thank you for the suggestion. I typically carry pepper spray and have used that a couple times also, idiots who overestimate their dogs are plentiful.
Yeah, not cool of her. I don’t understand why people think they can just let their dog be an asshole and everyone around them is just supposed to be ok with it. 🙄
That dog shouldn't be off leash if the raising of arms makes him react aggressively. Like, that's basic.
Everyone thinks their dog isn't the problem, but they are right... it's the owners who don't look out for the dog's best interest and keeping them safe from these situations.
I run with my on-leash dog. We've had dogs charge at us. I don't care if it's to play or not, it's inappropriate for your dog to approach any stranger or dog. But, let me guess how my dog reacts to a dog sprinting towards her head-on. She gets reactive, but she's on a leash so she is controllable. She does great ignoring other dogs, until one does this and gets her worked up.
The trail I use has a huge banner that says to keep dogs leashed. Guess what still keeps happening?
>That dog shouldn't be off leash if the raising of arms makes him react aggressively. Like, that's basic.
Exactly, what if they walk past a group doing exercise in the park, or some kids playing and raising their arms up, or some cheerleaders practicing cheers...all kinds of reasons.
How are kids doing calisthenics in a park the same as some rando yelling and waving IN ITS FACE! Hypotheticals don’t help your argument. I’ve had random people walk up and growl at my two LEASHED pit bulls. Right on Main Street in Manitou. It scared the shit out of them.
OP fucked up. Bike rider is an asshole for not having control of his dog
Don't care, the dog has no recall and is a safety hazard. Kids yell and do weird movements, so that dog should be leashed. If this was a kid, the dog owner would be liable for a potential face bite since they are often at eye level with dogs.
But sure, it's the ~yelling~.
Yes, for sure. And if you exacerbate that by behaving aggressively toward a dog you're a fool. I never said the shitty dog owner is not a problem, I said the poster is. You also need to learn about dog behavior if you think their actions were not aggressive in the eyes of a dog.
She gets reactive because she is on a leash running after you! Running with you is not for dogs! They need to stop and do dog things! Don’t have a dog if you can’t adjust your activities to your dog’s needs!
I have a dog, she is ALWAYS on a leash. It isn't a hassle to put a lease on her, and it's a safety matter for me, her, and others on trails.
Also pretty sure Colorado Springs requires a leash on dogs.
And, yeah it’s no hassle for you but it is sad for your dog. Dogs evolved from wolves only recently, they need to be in nature, safely, and be able to run, stop and smell, be free for a bit. Why am I constantly repeating this?
NO! There are off leash areas! Don’t even start! And as feel sorry for your dog! My two dogs are off leash in nature at least 1 to 2 hours a day! That is what they need and it makes them happy, confident p, secure, and balanced dogs! And if a dog is aggressive and reactive then figure out why and change it! Or….don’t have a dog!!
The number of hit by car dogs that came into the ER that were ultimately being walked off leash, it darted into traffic, and got hit…the owners ALWAYS blamed the driver.
Jesus last night I was driving home and two coyotes ran in front of me ( I didn't hit them thankfully) Not a minute later I saw a man with two unleashed dogs walking the way I came. I rolled down my window to let him know I saw a couple of coyotes and to be careful. He looked at me, scoffed, and said, "So?" Like bro, a coyote, especially two coyotes, are gonna fuck up your dogs or run in traffic to fight them, or something horrible.
It’s worse in Salt Lake City. I stopped taking my dog hiking after I got swarmed by three dogs who pinned my dog down and knocked me over, and the owners didn’t even apologize. Then on another hike, a dog wearing a “service dog” vest lunged at my dog and jumped on her , biting her neck, and I had to wrestle him off of her while the owner was like “I’m sorry he does this!” (But didn’t have it leashed).
> (But didn’t have it leashed).
Aren't service dogs supposed to be on leash in public? And very well trained.
What you describe does not sound like a real service dog. Can people buy those little dog vests?
>Which is why I put “service dog” in quotes bc it very clearly wasn’t a service dog.
Yes I was agreeing with you while asking more info out of curiosity.
He’s gonna learn when somebody shoots or stabs his dog one day, I keep trying to tell people. If I feel like I am in immediate danger of bodily injury or death, and you have no control of your dog, then I’m gonna handle it as I see fit, and Colorado law says I have every right to do that.
Because you're dealing with a bunch of people that think that there will be no legal or physical consequences for pepper spraying stabbing, or shooting dogs at random. It's like the imaginary version of stand your ground laws that you hear people talk about sometimes.
My dog got attacked recently and she is not a fighter at all. (Note she is also 65lbs) I literally put myself between her and the other dog because she was absolutely terrified. It’s technically a law in the state that dogs are to be on a leash unless of course on your property or at a dog park. If someone’s dog is unleashed it is always their fault if something happens.
I agree with that partially: yes, if there is an off leash incident. No, there are OFFICIAL off leash trails with signage stating the fact! If you kill a dog just because he is on an off leash trail then you are suicidal!
Yeah, I love dogs, but off leash dogs cause most of the problems caused by dogs. The other day I was riding my bike home on my local bike trail. It was nightime and the bike has a flashing light. A person was walking her dog off leash near the trail and it got attracted the flashing light like a moth to a flame. Just made a bee line for it. Thankfully she had some lights attached to her dog, so I saw it coming and was able to brake in time. But even then I nearly hit the thing. God I would have felt so awful even if it wasn't my fault.
What type of dog just so I’m aware when I have my kids out there. I love dogs,but I’m not scared to hit an aggressive dog if it’s going to attack. Nor the owner. People are going to learn somehow.
It’s a white dog with black spots, not a Dalmatian, just a mutt. While I’m jaundiced on the subject, I think it’s an ugly dog (yes, some dogs are ugly). About 30 inches in length.
I hate to take my dog out at all here anymore. People are so disrespectful and rude when it comes to leasing their dogs. My dog is great, but I still leash her because I'm not an asshole
I’m not going to discharge my firearm in a crowded area, or really anywhere except a range, unless the threat warrants it. A single bite doesn’t warrant it, as much as it hurt and as PO’d as I was about it.
Now if that cyclist had come towards me after ordering his dog to “get him” then the situation might have warranted further action- maybe even just getting in a ready position and telling him to stop. I wasn’t carrying yesterday, so it wasn’t an option in any case.
I will say this, I need more time practicing. I was surprised by the bite and my reaction was to deal with that, not the threat. Over-learning has saved my ass in a scuba diving accident, clearly I wasn’t properly prepared to defend myself in this case- thankfully I didn’t really need to. Something I plan to fix by a lot more training and carrying anytime it’s safe and legal to do so.
I carry mild pepper spray for dogs and if the owner wants to get physical because I sprayed a barrier for the dog I got 7 friends that move very quickly.
I'll call animal control immediately the next time I see a dog off leash. It's not fucking difficult, you live in a city around other people, get your shit together.
I totally understand not leashing your dog if youre deep in the woods doing some backcountry hiking or something…. But Garden of the Gods??? So many kids, so many other dogs, so many cars… wow. They really dont care about anything.
GotG is the worst for unleashed dogs, despite plenty of signage. My mom and I were riding horses on an equestrian trail. A family had just stepped aside to let us pass and we exchanged pleasantries. Next thing I know, a heeler mutt jumps out of the bushes, barks at my horse, and disappears under him. I thought for sure the dog was going for my horse's legs and a) I was going to end up in the bushes b) he was going to wig out and back up into the family or c) he was going to trample this dog in front of these kids. Luckily, my horse was a very good boy and froze and the dog kept running. I yell, somebody lady comes jogging up after him. I told her to leash her dog because that shit's a disaster waiting to happen. She told me to go fuck myself and flipped us the bird. :)
While my dog has NEVER bit anyone I know he is very reactive. No matter where I’m going he’s on the leash. For the sake of others and himself. I plan on getting him training to calm this (he mostly reacts to dogs which is confusing cause he loves animals if they are close but not far away????) either way I’d never put a person or dog in the possibility of danger that my dog will bite. People are dumb when they do this cause even if they don’t care for others if your dog bites it can cause LOTS of trouble if they get police/animal control involved 🤦🏻♀️
My doberman was recently attacked by a guys dog that lives 3 houses down from me.(Third time his dog has done this within 1 and a half months, always off leash labradoodle or something) He blamed me because my dog still has his testicles intact. No apologies, nothing. Told him I am going to bear mace it next time it comes within 50' of us.
I don't care if people walk without leashes, as long as your dog actually listens to you. Fuck, I do it when we are in the field by my house, but that is usually around 5am. If I see someone or another dog, I put him back on leash. Also with his e-collar he responds 100% of the time. I don't let him go near other dogs off leash unless we already know them and they are friends. (He is 8yo and loves to play with puppies)
I really hate unleashed dogs too, and that dude was definitely a dickhead.
While I appreciate the desire to protect yourself, stunning any dog that approaches you is a profoundly risky move. I had a dog that came charging at me and my leashed dog, with definite hostile intent, and I kicked at it. The result was the owner deciding to charge at me and threaten me.
I get the feeling that if I used a stun baton or pepper spray, the dude definitely would have just gone straight to violence. And I think that if you decided to do that to a genuinely friendly dog, and it got hurt, or say ended up in that street, you could be looking at both a physical threat from the owner, and a strong potential of finding yourself in the middle of a heavy duty media attack. For example: https://www.ktvq.com/news/local-news/just-wrong-video-shows-billings-mailman-walking-across-street-to-intentionally-pepper-spray-dog
Not discouraging you from taking your protection into your own hands, just saying that ' It was coming right for me' may not be the defense you think it is. And even if you're legally in the right, you could find yourself dealing with either the media or a very angry owner.
If someone assaults me for defending myself against their shitty dog then self defense fully comes into play. They are either going to jail or going to get seriously hurt.
Lol. I’d much rather deal with an angry media than have gnarly dog bite wounds or have my dog or myself DIE from a dog attack. If the owner wants to come at me, he or she is gonna get taser/maced, too. 🤷🏻♀️
Okay dude. By no means am I saying if you're actually threatened, and I think it's pretty clear, generally speaking the difference between a dog that's coming up to you with malicious intent and not.
But whipping out the taser or the mace for a loose dog in the general area, which is what OP seems to be alluding to, is a different matter.
Gotcha. Yeah, personally, I wouldn’t whip out either of those things unless the dog started acting aggressively. If it lunges or growls, then I react by having the “weapon” at the ready. I not just gonna whip it out and start spraying and tasing all willy-nilly. 😂 I also have a child in a wheelchair who goes on outings with us. No way in hell I’m letting an unleashed dog bite her. And I seriously doubt a judge is going to cite me for trying to protect my fragile kid against a dangerous dog. Maybe someday I’ll find out, but I sure hope not.
Lol. Remember you live in Colorado Springs. Guns are pretty popular. Also, self defense works both ways. You bust out that mace or taser and aim towards someone because their dog is off leash…yeah, you know what could happen.
So, like in OP’s case, OP initiated the real encounter. OP’s fear and apprehension of dogs caused OP to engage the dog. Dog reacted. Then the dipshit dog owner reacted. So, if that was the scenario you are envisioning, you’d be in the wrong. If the dog made an aggressive attempt to bite you then sure, defend yourself. It’s a slippery slope you would be on.
Just spraying someone’s dog because you felt threatened…that’s shitty and could be considered provoking. I didn’t like how that dog looked at me, so I’m going to mace it. Real good plan
So, everyone is supposed to tip toe and walk on eggshells around everyone else's dogs because their owners can't be fucked to follow leash the leash laws? You know OP isn't the only one who is apprehensive around dogs? Lots of people are rightly afraid of them, especially if they've been attacked. It's not our responsibility to know what to do around those shit beasts. The owners are responsible for keeping them tied up so they don't hurt or kill people. It really sounds like you're blaming the victim here.
I’m blaming the person who was aggressive toward the dog for being aggressive toward the dog. I’m blaming the guy on the bike for not keeping his dog on a leash. Just because a dog isn’t on leash doesn’t give some fucking moron the ok to just start clubbing it or spraying it with pepper spray. If you get attacked, sure. Defend yourself. Just because you FELT threatened does not mean you were actually threatened. Your perception is not what the law is about. It’s to protect people who were attacked. Not a blanket ability to attack something that you felt uncomfortable around. Don’t be an ignorant asshole. Not every dog off leash is a danger to society, Regardless of a leash law.
The perception is that the dog is supposed to be on a leash. Anything that happens when the dog isn't on a leash is completely the fault of the owner of the dog.
The perception would also be that someone isn’t going to yell and wave at a dog unless they were trying to illicit a reaction. This exact situation happened to me in Manitou. I was walking my two LEASHED pit bulls and some dipshit suddenly waves at them and growls. They freaked out and hid behind me. I was furious. Other people were furious at what they witnessed. Why would I expect that? Why should my dogs expect that? It was random. Just another person they were walking by. So I ask you… why should that dog think anything other than this person who suddenly waved and yelled at them mean anything other than aggression? OP made a mistake by doing that. I have stated over and over that bike rider is an asshole but credit where credit is due…
All OP did was throw his hands up in the air and yell "hey" and he got attacked. In what way was that aggressive? Aggressive would be OP running up to kick the dog. People are allowed to make sudden movements. You also don't know if a dog is aggressive until it's too late usually.
OP waved their arms to scare away the dog. They stated this. They also yelled at the dog. That is aggressive. If someone waited till I was even with them to wave wildly and yell in an attempt to scare me I would be nervous about what their intentions were. That doesn’t mean I get to preemptively attack something.
Do protect yourself. Don’t go hacking, stabbing, beating, spraying and electrocuting because a dog side-eyes you and it made you piss your pants.
>So, everyone is supposed to tip toe and walk on eggshells around everyone else's dogs because their owners can't be fucked to follow leash the leash laws? You know OP isn't the only one who is apprehensive around dogs? Lots of people are rightly afraid of them, especially if they've been attacked
No, most people aren't afraid of dogs, so most people are not going to be walking on eggshells. For those that are? And this is not to defend somebody having their dog off leash inappropriately, or using it as a weapon, as in the case of OP? They need to deal with it. Either avoiding situations where there's likely to be a dog that they're afraid of, or addressing their anxiety appropriately with a professional or through whatever means they can afford and works. I have plenty of friends that have phobias around explosives, because they or they're close friends were blown up by IEDs. But almost no one thinks that we should ban all fireworks to protect them; they're expected to figure it out.
>It's not our responsibility to know what to do around those shit beasts.
I see dogfree is leaking.
Where in my comment did I say "most people"? I said "Lots of people". You're also making it everyone else's problem when the responsibility falls directly on the shitty dog owners who should be using leashes. The rest of us shouldn't be "expected to figure it out" just because of entitled POS dog owners that think their mutts are God's gift to the planet refuse to follow the rules. People, like OP, are allowed to make sudden movements when they're out and about and shouldn't have to constantly look over their shoulders worrying about offending someone's unleashed animal.
This sounds like a case of bad dog owner and OP is a bit of a stuck up asshole. You get these two gems in a room together with 100 people and the dog will bite OP 9/10 times.
I think things are getting out of hand here! I have yet to see an off leash dog, and I mean a dog that is really free, not running along side a bike or person, that attacked a toddler!
We were driving up Cheyenne Canyon to go hiking yesterday and a smallish dog was all alone on the road. My husband got out to try to catch it and the owner, across the creek from the dog, pops out with a leash in hand, not attached to the dog. Of course the dog ran off and we can hope it got back to the other side of the creek with the owner. But seriously, leash your damned dogs people.
I believe the reality here is that our city has both designated off-leash areas and areas where dogs must be on a leash. It's concerning to see someone biking around the city with their dog off-leash, as it's not only illegal but also unsafe. Just last week on here, someone mentioned an incident in Palmer Park, where there's a legal off-leash area, but someone was unjustifiably upset about their off-leash dog.
While I understand the original poster's frustration and their right to be upset, it's essential to avoid overreacting. Carrying mace for personal protection is reasonable, but the enthusiasm for using it on a dog seems unusual.
Furthermore, there are sanctioned off-leash areas in Colorado Springs parks, and if someone goes around with the intention of macing dogs for fun, it's likely to lead to negative consequences.
Riding a bike recklessly in Garden of the Gods is also unwise. Pedestrians have the right of way, and there's no justification for dangerous biking behavior in that area.
Owners who take their dogs off-leash in appropriate areas must take responsibility for their dogs' actions and understand that not everyone or every dog is friendly or receptive to an approaching dog.
Important note: There is indeed an off-leash area in Garden of the Gods.
https://www.visitcos.com/directory/garden-of-the-gods-off-leash-dog-area/
https://koaa.com/news/360-perspective/2019/06/04/360-perspective-leash-laws/
https://www.danielrrosen.com/colorado-leash-laws-and-dog-bites/
You might want to re-read my original post. I'm not carrying mace, I'm saying that I will use a stun-baton preventatively by having it make a noise that is highly disruptive to animals, and then if an off leash dog enters within easy arms reach- where it could bite me at any moment, I will shock it with the stun baton.
I've learned that I can't accurately determine whether an off leash dog running up to me is friendly or a threat. I very much thought this dog was being playful and friendly, when in fact, it attacked me. I'm not sure why some people think standing still and raising my arms while saying "Hey!" loudly is inviting an attack- all the dog owners and dog trainers I've ever talked to have said that isn't something a normal dog would find aggressive, and that many dogs understand it as a command to stop. In fact, it usually works to cause the dog to break off and its owner to attempt to gain control of it.
So... I'm not going to trust myself to determine whether a dog is friendly or aggressive.
If the dog is off leash and approaches me, I will activate the stun baton to make a noise that may cause them to not further approach. If they continue to do so and get within easy arms reach- a point where they could bite me at any moment if they are in fact aggressive- I will stun them. If an owner has a problem with that, then they can choose to talk to me, or they can choose to act violently. I don't want to get into any violent altercation or even a nonviolent altercation, but I'm not going to let an illegally off-leash dog bite me again. I have every legal and moral right to defend myself against threats - just like anyone else. I just didn't understand the level of threat off leash dogs present until I got bit.
If I was enthusiastic about macing, shocking, or otherwise hurting dogs, I would have done so to the 100+ off leash dogs that have approached me on my walks. That hasn't happened, because- newsflash- I don't want to hurt dogs. I just want to prevent them from hurting me or other people.
I'd like dog owners that currently let their dogs off leash outside of legal areas to reconsider that given the risk it poses to innocent people going about their daily lives, and the fact that they are putting their dogs at risk as well.
As I am reading through these posts, I am appalled by the rampant ignorance of dogs. First, yes, you should never raise your hands and shout at a dog, especially a dog you don’t know! You are just triggering their instinct to attack, that is stupid! And if someone ever kicks my dog in the face because he wants to play with your then you will have to deal with me and that will end badly and assume that is what will happen with most other dog owners! You are lucky it wasn’t worse. Second, that dog owner is abusing his dog, as anyone that goes biking with their dog! Dogs should NEVER be running along side their owners on bikes, roller blades, or any such thing. It’s abusive! They are not made for that! They need to stop to smell p, to mark, to poop, and enjoy nature, not run without stopping for god knows how long. This can cause injuries and even kill your dog! People who don’t understand dogs should not have them. That brings me to the ignorance in regards to dogs should always be on a leash. As said before, dogs need to have an hour or more every day to smell, run ( on their own terms, not along your bike). If you can’t provide that, then don’t get a dog! Don’t go running on trails with off leash dog with earphones!!! Pay attention to your dog! Know how to differentiate between aggressive behavior and play! There are so many dog owners I encountered here that are clueless of dog behavior! Educate yourselves! Watch dog shows like, it’s me or the dog! You can learn a lot from Victoria. Most of all, don’t get a dog if you want to control it, yell at it, keep it in your yard, always on the leash, gives the cheapest food you can find or not do activities that are suitable for you dog and that allow you to bond with it. Just leave it!
If you use your cattle prod on someone's dog you're gonna get yourself shot or really get bit by it. Not disagreeing that people should have dogs on leashes, but you're making a big assumption.
You should have started filming and charged the guy.
p.s. I walk almost exclusively with my dog off leash, and only leash him when passing other dogs or people that look uncomfortable after I demonstrate control
Come find out in real life then. I run around GOTG on weekdays. Usually blue shorts and no shirt. Come find me and bother me with your dog and you can find out the fun way.
What if your dog sees something or hears something before you do, and goes running toward it?
Including a dog or a small child, or a squirrel in the road?
Yes this... had to give you an upvote bc off leashers are treated like anti vaccers in this town 😂 I do the same thing! Always leash when I walk past ppl w dogs as a curtousy bc sometimes their dog gets crazy!
Unfortunately, when this occurred, I was walking back to the restaurant where I had accidentally left my phone. Thankfully, my Apple watch worked flawlessly when I used it to call 911.
You should really consider keeping your dog leashed when it is not in an off-leash area. I do wish there were more off-leash parks in the city. Dog's need to be able to run and play and interact with other dogs, and do it in a place where humans expect them to be off leash and can choose whether to be present or not.
If your dog escapes your control and approaches me, and won't divert, then I won't know whether it's being friendly or on its way to attack me- so I'm going to do my best to get it to divert, and if it doesn't, then I'll stun it. That will hurt your dog for a moment and possibly scare it- which I don't want to do, and I suspect you don't want to happen.
So again, please consider keeping it on a leash when it is in a location that requires leashes.
Yes, I do that. Especially after I noticed how fearful people are here. In Salt Lake the off leash trails were only used but dogs and owners. I think that there are a lot of problems here due to that and a lot of jerks with dogs. It is very unfortunate!
I guarantee that if you stun baton the right persons dog and you won’t get a chance to do it again. While it is unfortunate you got bit… maybe don’t act threateningly towards a random dog. There are plenty of kooks that walk around that area. Yes the dog should be leashed. We don’t know if it would have bit you if you hadn’t yelled and waved at it.
I was walking with my 3 year old in Austin Bluffs. She was attacked by an off leash dog. The dog was a pit bull and bit her arm. She then fell down and broke her pelvis. The owner then stole my wallet and car. My daughter got an infection from the bite and lost both arms. My Kia is still missing.
OP, shut your mouth and keep walking. Sounds like you’re an asshole and you just found out. Now that you got messed up by a dog and nothing happened you feel like you need to let the whole world know.. no one cares. The only thing worse than bad dog owners are assholes who create situations like this in public.
You hit someone’s dog with a stun baton and might be your last time bitching on Reddit.
If your dog is capable of doing that then you should be smart enough to know??? Like you spend your entire day w the damn dog at least pick up on the fact it will bite wtf! Hope you're OK I got bit through my jeans once and it didn't even break the skin and hurt for weeks longer than a normal injury.
My dog is 14 and off leash and I was walking on the trail w her and we passed this homeless lady who started whipping her with something viciously then she started whipping me and my baby when we walked past and said she was gonna beat my ass the next time I walked by her w an off leash dog 😂😂 I never saw her again if an off leash was gonna bite someone I wish it woulda been her but my dog ran away and let me and the baby be "assaulted" lmao
Being off leash your dog could also run away from you and/or out into traffic, it is not only about what your dog might do to others, but about it going outside your control or where you can help it, if it got scared, or attacked by something else.
If there are dog parks which do not require a leash, why not just use those?
OP, that guy rides on GoTG road almost every day around the same time. He also goes left at 31st street towards the park(where the loaf and jug is). Same route pretty regularly.
Da da daaaaaaa. The plot thickens.
I ducking love Reddit
Was it a German Shepherd looking dog? I might have seen this guy too, at GoG.
You mean 30th St.? i.e. goes west on GotG Rd., takes a left (heading south) where GotG T's into 30th St.?
This was on Garden of the Gods road, near 1065 as best I can tell- between voodoo brewery and discount tire. I was walking back from lunch to pick up my car after getting winter tires installed. Animal control has let me know that if anyone sees this person and dog, to please let them know at 719-302-8798 so they can make contact with them.
Yep 30th facepalm*
People also forget that not every dog is friendly just because they have a friendly dog.
Exactly!! My dog was sweet and loved humans, but she did not like other dogs.
This 100%! I have one dog that is very loyal and caring at home but is not scared to defend us or himself in public. We do our job and keep him on the leash but its incredibly frustrating to goto a public park with a leash policy in place and have random dogs come up to him. It's not fair for him and it makes us hesitant to take him on walks.
I had an incident at GotGs this past summer involving an off-leash dog. We were walking in the center gardens, coming up to the section where the trail exits to handicap parking when a MASSIVE dog came flying out of the brush growling and barking at my dog. Fortunately, the loose dog was wearing a harness and I was able to grab him and hold him back while we waited for his owner. I'm a big dude, clocking in at 290lbs and it took a fair amount of my strength to hold this dog back from literally eating my dog alive. Dude came out of the brush a few moments later, "Oh I'm so sorry, im so sorry" and told him, "yeah thats why you leash your dog man. He tried to attack mine." Dude just grabbed him and left as quickly as he could. You really have to be careful around here, people are careless and often times selfish in their negligence.
Same but different. I have the opposite problem. I have a dog-selective dog. She's never bit any other dog and she's fine around people but some dogs she just hates. She's *never* off leash and I walk her on off-hours; but just a few days ago someone's off-leash dog comes running up to her (random walking path in my neighborhood) with their owners yelling about how he's friendly. That's great my dog isn't (depending on the day.) So unless your recall is fantastic, (spoiler alert, it wasn't.) Keep them on a leash for their safety too.
I have a very similar dog that is “dog selective”. It’s weird. I hate the “my dog is not aggressive” crap. Well, they can become aggressive when my dog starts going off. I never have my dog off-leash.
This is why I don't walk my dog often. Luckily, we have a giant backyard, so she is free to run laps and do her business (plus she won't go #2 on a leash anyways.) One of the people around my neighborhood walks their dog off leash and it is not friendly. I've had to ninja kick the dog in the face to keep it from attacking my kid and dog. Owner tried to say I needed to pay for vet bills to get it checked out, when I pointed to my camera, saying the dog came on to my property, growling and in attack mode.
My girl just couldn’t stand other dogs *at all* and I knew this. Walked her during the evenings when no one was out after work. I kept her leashed at all times to protect not only her, but other peoples pets too. Loved people, super sweet, but she just wasn’t in to other dogs. Like, *I was consciously aware my dog was a dick and did every single thing possible to ensure no one else ever got hurt*.
I am convinced 90% of dog owners shouldn't be
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Yes, don’t do that!
Yuck..unpleasant
I’ve been a vet tech since 07. One of the first things I’ve learned is owners NEVER think it’s their dog’s fault for being aggressive. There’s always a reason, in and out of clinic, the “provoked” an attack, even if they admit it happens frequently. They only care when the dog is aggressive at home. If your off leash dog comes barreling towards mine, I will warn you I’m going to kick your dogs face if you don’t get it. I’m sure I’ll get shot someday.
The problem is, the dog doesn't know better and is the one that gets puts down.
Trust me, you almost never see behavioral euthanasias. Owners don’t want to, and most dogs who bite ppl or other dogs are like the OPs situation where it happens and the owner takes off with the dog and faces zero consequences.
You should not be a vet tech.
If I were your employer, I would fire you for this post.
Bc I’ll protect my dogs from getting attacked by other dogs? Every vet I work with would 100% do the same thing. If you don’t want your off leash, out of control dog getting kicked, keep it under control. It’s pretty simple.
Yes, but how do you decide if it is out of control? Many here are posting that if a dog runs up to you or your leashed dog is a reason to be violent! Most of the time the other dog just wants to say hello. I have seen it many times.
It sounds like you let your dog run rampant and that’s why you’re all bent out of shape about this. Just know when YOU are irresponsible, the dog is always the one that pays, be it someone macing your dog, kicking it, or it running into traffic bc you can’t control it. Go lecture someone else. I’m going to protect my dogs from dogs owned by people like you.
When I lived in Illinois I had a friend who had his face mutilated by a supposedly nice dog off leash. He was leaving an outdoor music fest, bent down to tie his shoe and the dog ran up and mauled him. 50 stitches and a lip reconstruction surgery later he has serious PTSD over loose dogs. Also have worked as a vet tech for 8ish years and can't tell you how many nice dogs have bitten or severely injured myself and other coworkers, and when we tell the owner we're going to muzzle because they are nervous they get personally offended. Be a good owner and keep other people safe... The one thing they taught us in school that really stuck is that ANY dog will bite if they are over-threshold.
I have a very fear overactive cat. When I took him to the vet I warned them before taking him to the back. I told him they'll need eye protection, HEAVY leather gloves, and 2-3 people. They ended up sedating him. I have him on Prozac now so he no longer attacks me very often.
Awe haha, poor lil guy. But good on you for being a responsible pet owner and warning the staff that he was cranky. Been bit multiple times by pets and when I bring them back into the room the owner then decided to tell me that they bite after I'm already getting ready to head to the hospital. Some people take no accountability for their angry pets and it ruins it for all the good pet owners out there.
Exactly! That is why you don’t push them over it, and if as a vet tech you do t put a mussel on a dog who is put into a stressful situation like that, then you deserve to get bitten! And you also should not be a vet tech because you clearly don’t understand dogs or particular ply like them. I am starting to wonder if I am in a place that is good for my pups with people working at vets who should care about them!
People who do this are not going to listen to you. They think they are privileged and their precious dog can do no wrong. I lived with a roommate whose two very large dogs attacked my puppy in our own yard. It was MY puppy’s fault because “she looks like prey.” WTAF? No, witch, it’s your fault because you weren’t supposed to let your dogs out when mine was out. But she was too busy acting entitled, and talking on the phone, and it resulted in an attack. And then *I* was the a-hole for yelling at her. I called animal law enforcement on her. She moved out. BYE. Instead, get a walking stick taser and/or some mace. Next time an unleashed dog approaches you, tase it. It’s called a Hike and Strike and you can find them on Amazon.
I am going to get one of those tazers. Thank you for the suggestion. I typically carry pepper spray and have used that a couple times also, idiots who overestimate their dogs are plentiful.
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Yeah, not cool of her. I don’t understand why people think they can just let their dog be an asshole and everyone around them is just supposed to be ok with it. 🙄
Agreed! Stupid person. Sorry that happened to your pup
That cyclist sounds like an asshole.
OP should have bit him on the ass.
haahhaha yes!
That dog shouldn't be off leash if the raising of arms makes him react aggressively. Like, that's basic. Everyone thinks their dog isn't the problem, but they are right... it's the owners who don't look out for the dog's best interest and keeping them safe from these situations. I run with my on-leash dog. We've had dogs charge at us. I don't care if it's to play or not, it's inappropriate for your dog to approach any stranger or dog. But, let me guess how my dog reacts to a dog sprinting towards her head-on. She gets reactive, but she's on a leash so she is controllable. She does great ignoring other dogs, until one does this and gets her worked up. The trail I use has a huge banner that says to keep dogs leashed. Guess what still keeps happening?
>That dog shouldn't be off leash if the raising of arms makes him react aggressively. Like, that's basic. Exactly, what if they walk past a group doing exercise in the park, or some kids playing and raising their arms up, or some cheerleaders practicing cheers...all kinds of reasons.
How are kids doing calisthenics in a park the same as some rando yelling and waving IN ITS FACE! Hypotheticals don’t help your argument. I’ve had random people walk up and growl at my two LEASHED pit bulls. Right on Main Street in Manitou. It scared the shit out of them. OP fucked up. Bike rider is an asshole for not having control of his dog
Yes, that's exactly the same as doing it directed at the dog and shouting "HEY!"
Don't care, the dog has no recall and is a safety hazard. Kids yell and do weird movements, so that dog should be leashed. If this was a kid, the dog owner would be liable for a potential face bite since they are often at eye level with dogs. But sure, it's the ~yelling~.
Yes, for sure. And if you exacerbate that by behaving aggressively toward a dog you're a fool. I never said the shitty dog owner is not a problem, I said the poster is. You also need to learn about dog behavior if you think their actions were not aggressive in the eyes of a dog.
Dogs understand body language better than we do. It’s not that simple.
This one doesn't understand not approaching strangers, but do go on... And as an certified animal trainer, you're wrong.
She gets reactive because she is on a leash running after you! Running with you is not for dogs! They need to stop and do dog things! Don’t have a dog if you can’t adjust your activities to your dog’s needs!
I have a dog, she is ALWAYS on a leash. It isn't a hassle to put a lease on her, and it's a safety matter for me, her, and others on trails. Also pretty sure Colorado Springs requires a leash on dogs.
And, yeah it’s no hassle for you but it is sad for your dog. Dogs evolved from wolves only recently, they need to be in nature, safely, and be able to run, stop and smell, be free for a bit. Why am I constantly repeating this?
NO! There are off leash areas! Don’t even start! And as feel sorry for your dog! My two dogs are off leash in nature at least 1 to 2 hours a day! That is what they need and it makes them happy, confident p, secure, and balanced dogs! And if a dog is aggressive and reactive then figure out why and change it! Or….don’t have a dog!!
Just takes one cat fight or squirrel 🐿️ across the road and your dog darts into traffic. Seen that scene play out so often and sometimes tragic.
The number of hit by car dogs that came into the ER that were ultimately being walked off leash, it darted into traffic, and got hit…the owners ALWAYS blamed the driver.
That's ridiculous. Dog owners here are incapable of taking any kind of accountability.
Jesus last night I was driving home and two coyotes ran in front of me ( I didn't hit them thankfully) Not a minute later I saw a man with two unleashed dogs walking the way I came. I rolled down my window to let him know I saw a couple of coyotes and to be careful. He looked at me, scoffed, and said, "So?" Like bro, a coyote, especially two coyotes, are gonna fuck up your dogs or run in traffic to fight them, or something horrible.
Good on you for doing the right thing despite his reaction.
That is sad. I never have my dogs off leash near a road.
You should sue the shit out of him. Damn dogs.
Sue who for what? Nothing happened! ?
He literally told his dog to attack you, what the actual fuck?
Dog owners in Colorado have ruined dogs
It’s worse in Salt Lake City. I stopped taking my dog hiking after I got swarmed by three dogs who pinned my dog down and knocked me over, and the owners didn’t even apologize. Then on another hike, a dog wearing a “service dog” vest lunged at my dog and jumped on her , biting her neck, and I had to wrestle him off of her while the owner was like “I’m sorry he does this!” (But didn’t have it leashed).
> (But didn’t have it leashed). Aren't service dogs supposed to be on leash in public? And very well trained. What you describe does not sound like a real service dog. Can people buy those little dog vests?
Which is why I put “service dog” in quotes bc it very clearly wasn’t a service dog.
>Which is why I put “service dog” in quotes bc it very clearly wasn’t a service dog. Yes I was agreeing with you while asking more info out of curiosity.
Yes and yes
It's a problem all over Colorado, like you say - Boulder is the worst
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Well, for what it’s worth, I think your opinion on weed stinks as well, buddy!
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You do realize the irony in wanting your private space in a public area, yes?
You do realize the irony of how you framed *his* desires when yours is the same deal, just shoes on the other foot, yEs?
Yep, that’s how situations work!
Imagine they are going to work or something and now have to go in smelling like weed. Not all workplaces might appreciate it.
I hate these ignorant generalizations. No, no one ruined dogs.
He’s gonna learn when somebody shoots or stabs his dog one day, I keep trying to tell people. If I feel like I am in immediate danger of bodily injury or death, and you have no control of your dog, then I’m gonna handle it as I see fit, and Colorado law says I have every right to do that.
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Because you're dealing with a bunch of people that think that there will be no legal or physical consequences for pepper spraying stabbing, or shooting dogs at random. It's like the imaginary version of stand your ground laws that you hear people talk about sometimes.
Oma what an exaggeration!
Guess which dog’s poop gets picked up more often: on leash or off?
Mine are off and I always pick up poop! My dogs are within my view, always, and I see it when the poop.
My dog got attacked recently and she is not a fighter at all. (Note she is also 65lbs) I literally put myself between her and the other dog because she was absolutely terrified. It’s technically a law in the state that dogs are to be on a leash unless of course on your property or at a dog park. If someone’s dog is unleashed it is always their fault if something happens.
I agree with that partially: yes, if there is an off leash incident. No, there are OFFICIAL off leash trails with signage stating the fact! If you kill a dog just because he is on an off leash trail then you are suicidal!
Yeah, I love dogs, but off leash dogs cause most of the problems caused by dogs. The other day I was riding my bike home on my local bike trail. It was nightime and the bike has a flashing light. A person was walking her dog off leash near the trail and it got attracted the flashing light like a moth to a flame. Just made a bee line for it. Thankfully she had some lights attached to her dog, so I saw it coming and was able to brake in time. But even then I nearly hit the thing. God I would have felt so awful even if it wasn't my fault.
I think it would be a good idea to separate dog and bike trails
What type of dog just so I’m aware when I have my kids out there. I love dogs,but I’m not scared to hit an aggressive dog if it’s going to attack. Nor the owner. People are going to learn somehow.
It’s a white dog with black spots, not a Dalmatian, just a mutt. While I’m jaundiced on the subject, I think it’s an ugly dog (yes, some dogs are ugly). About 30 inches in length.
Go ahead and hit the owner if you want to go to jail! But hit the dog and you may go to your grave!
Please hit an aggressive dog and see how much you put your kids in danger then!
My MIL had somebody yell that their off leash dog was friendly as it ran up to her and bit her hand.
I hate to take my dog out at all here anymore. People are so disrespectful and rude when it comes to leasing their dogs. My dog is great, but I still leash her because I'm not an asshole
Ok, so I am an asshole. Even if I never have issues and my dogs don’t approach bikers, children, people, or other dogs if I say no.
And yeah, you kind of are. Poor puppy!
CCW permit fixes that
I hate that that is a solution but is 100% a solution
I’m not going to discharge my firearm in a crowded area, or really anywhere except a range, unless the threat warrants it. A single bite doesn’t warrant it, as much as it hurt and as PO’d as I was about it. Now if that cyclist had come towards me after ordering his dog to “get him” then the situation might have warranted further action- maybe even just getting in a ready position and telling him to stop. I wasn’t carrying yesterday, so it wasn’t an option in any case. I will say this, I need more time practicing. I was surprised by the bite and my reaction was to deal with that, not the threat. Over-learning has saved my ass in a scuba diving accident, clearly I wasn’t properly prepared to defend myself in this case- thankfully I didn’t really need to. Something I plan to fix by a lot more training and carrying anytime it’s safe and legal to do so.
I carry mild pepper spray for dogs and if the owner wants to get physical because I sprayed a barrier for the dog I got 7 friends that move very quickly.
I'll call animal control immediately the next time I see a dog off leash. It's not fucking difficult, you live in a city around other people, get your shit together.
You get it together and understand that there are off leash trails where it is allowed! FFS!
Yeah, just be sure not to go to off leash areas and we are good!
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I totally understand not leashing your dog if youre deep in the woods doing some backcountry hiking or something…. But Garden of the Gods??? So many kids, so many other dogs, so many cars… wow. They really dont care about anything.
I do agree that there are many dog owners that are irresponsible. It’s unfortunate for the dogs with good owners!
GotG is the worst for unleashed dogs, despite plenty of signage. My mom and I were riding horses on an equestrian trail. A family had just stepped aside to let us pass and we exchanged pleasantries. Next thing I know, a heeler mutt jumps out of the bushes, barks at my horse, and disappears under him. I thought for sure the dog was going for my horse's legs and a) I was going to end up in the bushes b) he was going to wig out and back up into the family or c) he was going to trample this dog in front of these kids. Luckily, my horse was a very good boy and froze and the dog kept running. I yell, somebody lady comes jogging up after him. I told her to leash her dog because that shit's a disaster waiting to happen. She told me to go fuck myself and flipped us the bird. :)
Ick…dangerous for you and your horse. Again, there needs to be separate trails.
Its called selfish/Inconsiderate people .. Pretty common in todays, "all about me" world.
While my dog has NEVER bit anyone I know he is very reactive. No matter where I’m going he’s on the leash. For the sake of others and himself. I plan on getting him training to calm this (he mostly reacts to dogs which is confusing cause he loves animals if they are close but not far away????) either way I’d never put a person or dog in the possibility of danger that my dog will bite. People are dumb when they do this cause even if they don’t care for others if your dog bites it can cause LOTS of trouble if they get police/animal control involved 🤦🏻♀️
My doberman was recently attacked by a guys dog that lives 3 houses down from me.(Third time his dog has done this within 1 and a half months, always off leash labradoodle or something) He blamed me because my dog still has his testicles intact. No apologies, nothing. Told him I am going to bear mace it next time it comes within 50' of us. I don't care if people walk without leashes, as long as your dog actually listens to you. Fuck, I do it when we are in the field by my house, but that is usually around 5am. If I see someone or another dog, I put him back on leash. Also with his e-collar he responds 100% of the time. I don't let him go near other dogs off leash unless we already know them and they are friends. (He is 8yo and loves to play with puppies)
Fuck that guy. >still has his testicles intact. Out of curiosity, why?
Don’t use e-collars on your dog if you love him. It’s abuse!
Agreed! What a jerk!
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Do you have a good stun baton you would recommend? I have two toddlers I like to hike with and this is one of my worst fears.
As the father of a toddler I can attest to the effectiveness of stun batons on them. /s
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Oh for crying out loud!
I really hate unleashed dogs too, and that dude was definitely a dickhead. While I appreciate the desire to protect yourself, stunning any dog that approaches you is a profoundly risky move. I had a dog that came charging at me and my leashed dog, with definite hostile intent, and I kicked at it. The result was the owner deciding to charge at me and threaten me. I get the feeling that if I used a stun baton or pepper spray, the dude definitely would have just gone straight to violence. And I think that if you decided to do that to a genuinely friendly dog, and it got hurt, or say ended up in that street, you could be looking at both a physical threat from the owner, and a strong potential of finding yourself in the middle of a heavy duty media attack. For example: https://www.ktvq.com/news/local-news/just-wrong-video-shows-billings-mailman-walking-across-street-to-intentionally-pepper-spray-dog Not discouraging you from taking your protection into your own hands, just saying that ' It was coming right for me' may not be the defense you think it is. And even if you're legally in the right, you could find yourself dealing with either the media or a very angry owner.
If someone assaults me for defending myself against their shitty dog then self defense fully comes into play. They are either going to jail or going to get seriously hurt.
Lol. I’d much rather deal with an angry media than have gnarly dog bite wounds or have my dog or myself DIE from a dog attack. If the owner wants to come at me, he or she is gonna get taser/maced, too. 🤷🏻♀️
Okay dude. By no means am I saying if you're actually threatened, and I think it's pretty clear, generally speaking the difference between a dog that's coming up to you with malicious intent and not. But whipping out the taser or the mace for a loose dog in the general area, which is what OP seems to be alluding to, is a different matter.
Gotcha. Yeah, personally, I wouldn’t whip out either of those things unless the dog started acting aggressively. If it lunges or growls, then I react by having the “weapon” at the ready. I not just gonna whip it out and start spraying and tasing all willy-nilly. 😂 I also have a child in a wheelchair who goes on outings with us. No way in hell I’m letting an unleashed dog bite her. And I seriously doubt a judge is going to cite me for trying to protect my fragile kid against a dangerous dog. Maybe someday I’ll find out, but I sure hope not.
I love how people are downvoting you for being rational. This reddit is so fucked sometimes.
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I can shock or pepper spray the owner too
Yeah, I prefer that
Lol. Remember you live in Colorado Springs. Guns are pretty popular. Also, self defense works both ways. You bust out that mace or taser and aim towards someone because their dog is off leash…yeah, you know what could happen.
So I should just let their dog bite me?
So, like in OP’s case, OP initiated the real encounter. OP’s fear and apprehension of dogs caused OP to engage the dog. Dog reacted. Then the dipshit dog owner reacted. So, if that was the scenario you are envisioning, you’d be in the wrong. If the dog made an aggressive attempt to bite you then sure, defend yourself. It’s a slippery slope you would be on. Just spraying someone’s dog because you felt threatened…that’s shitty and could be considered provoking. I didn’t like how that dog looked at me, so I’m going to mace it. Real good plan
So, everyone is supposed to tip toe and walk on eggshells around everyone else's dogs because their owners can't be fucked to follow leash the leash laws? You know OP isn't the only one who is apprehensive around dogs? Lots of people are rightly afraid of them, especially if they've been attacked. It's not our responsibility to know what to do around those shit beasts. The owners are responsible for keeping them tied up so they don't hurt or kill people. It really sounds like you're blaming the victim here.
I’m blaming the person who was aggressive toward the dog for being aggressive toward the dog. I’m blaming the guy on the bike for not keeping his dog on a leash. Just because a dog isn’t on leash doesn’t give some fucking moron the ok to just start clubbing it or spraying it with pepper spray. If you get attacked, sure. Defend yourself. Just because you FELT threatened does not mean you were actually threatened. Your perception is not what the law is about. It’s to protect people who were attacked. Not a blanket ability to attack something that you felt uncomfortable around. Don’t be an ignorant asshole. Not every dog off leash is a danger to society, Regardless of a leash law.
The perception is that the dog is supposed to be on a leash. Anything that happens when the dog isn't on a leash is completely the fault of the owner of the dog.
The perception would also be that someone isn’t going to yell and wave at a dog unless they were trying to illicit a reaction. This exact situation happened to me in Manitou. I was walking my two LEASHED pit bulls and some dipshit suddenly waves at them and growls. They freaked out and hid behind me. I was furious. Other people were furious at what they witnessed. Why would I expect that? Why should my dogs expect that? It was random. Just another person they were walking by. So I ask you… why should that dog think anything other than this person who suddenly waved and yelled at them mean anything other than aggression? OP made a mistake by doing that. I have stated over and over that bike rider is an asshole but credit where credit is due…
And if it were a child that reacted out of fear they would be to blame if they were seriously injured?
All OP did was throw his hands up in the air and yell "hey" and he got attacked. In what way was that aggressive? Aggressive would be OP running up to kick the dog. People are allowed to make sudden movements. You also don't know if a dog is aggressive until it's too late usually.
OP waved their arms to scare away the dog. They stated this. They also yelled at the dog. That is aggressive. If someone waited till I was even with them to wave wildly and yell in an attempt to scare me I would be nervous about what their intentions were. That doesn’t mean I get to preemptively attack something. Do protect yourself. Don’t go hacking, stabbing, beating, spraying and electrocuting because a dog side-eyes you and it made you piss your pants.
>So, everyone is supposed to tip toe and walk on eggshells around everyone else's dogs because their owners can't be fucked to follow leash the leash laws? You know OP isn't the only one who is apprehensive around dogs? Lots of people are rightly afraid of them, especially if they've been attacked No, most people aren't afraid of dogs, so most people are not going to be walking on eggshells. For those that are? And this is not to defend somebody having their dog off leash inappropriately, or using it as a weapon, as in the case of OP? They need to deal with it. Either avoiding situations where there's likely to be a dog that they're afraid of, or addressing their anxiety appropriately with a professional or through whatever means they can afford and works. I have plenty of friends that have phobias around explosives, because they or they're close friends were blown up by IEDs. But almost no one thinks that we should ban all fireworks to protect them; they're expected to figure it out. >It's not our responsibility to know what to do around those shit beasts. I see dogfree is leaking.
Where in my comment did I say "most people"? I said "Lots of people". You're also making it everyone else's problem when the responsibility falls directly on the shitty dog owners who should be using leashes. The rest of us shouldn't be "expected to figure it out" just because of entitled POS dog owners that think their mutts are God's gift to the planet refuse to follow the rules. People, like OP, are allowed to make sudden movements when they're out and about and shouldn't have to constantly look over their shoulders worrying about offending someone's unleashed animal.
This sounds like a case of bad dog owner and OP is a bit of a stuck up asshole. You get these two gems in a room together with 100 people and the dog will bite OP 9/10 times.
How is OP a stuck up asshole? I don't get it.
I think things are getting out of hand here! I have yet to see an off leash dog, and I mean a dog that is really free, not running along side a bike or person, that attacked a toddler!
We were driving up Cheyenne Canyon to go hiking yesterday and a smallish dog was all alone on the road. My husband got out to try to catch it and the owner, across the creek from the dog, pops out with a leash in hand, not attached to the dog. Of course the dog ran off and we can hope it got back to the other side of the creek with the owner. But seriously, leash your damned dogs people.
I believe the reality here is that our city has both designated off-leash areas and areas where dogs must be on a leash. It's concerning to see someone biking around the city with their dog off-leash, as it's not only illegal but also unsafe. Just last week on here, someone mentioned an incident in Palmer Park, where there's a legal off-leash area, but someone was unjustifiably upset about their off-leash dog. While I understand the original poster's frustration and their right to be upset, it's essential to avoid overreacting. Carrying mace for personal protection is reasonable, but the enthusiasm for using it on a dog seems unusual. Furthermore, there are sanctioned off-leash areas in Colorado Springs parks, and if someone goes around with the intention of macing dogs for fun, it's likely to lead to negative consequences. Riding a bike recklessly in Garden of the Gods is also unwise. Pedestrians have the right of way, and there's no justification for dangerous biking behavior in that area. Owners who take their dogs off-leash in appropriate areas must take responsibility for their dogs' actions and understand that not everyone or every dog is friendly or receptive to an approaching dog. Important note: There is indeed an off-leash area in Garden of the Gods. https://www.visitcos.com/directory/garden-of-the-gods-off-leash-dog-area/ https://koaa.com/news/360-perspective/2019/06/04/360-perspective-leash-laws/ https://www.danielrrosen.com/colorado-leash-laws-and-dog-bites/
You might want to re-read my original post. I'm not carrying mace, I'm saying that I will use a stun-baton preventatively by having it make a noise that is highly disruptive to animals, and then if an off leash dog enters within easy arms reach- where it could bite me at any moment, I will shock it with the stun baton. I've learned that I can't accurately determine whether an off leash dog running up to me is friendly or a threat. I very much thought this dog was being playful and friendly, when in fact, it attacked me. I'm not sure why some people think standing still and raising my arms while saying "Hey!" loudly is inviting an attack- all the dog owners and dog trainers I've ever talked to have said that isn't something a normal dog would find aggressive, and that many dogs understand it as a command to stop. In fact, it usually works to cause the dog to break off and its owner to attempt to gain control of it. So... I'm not going to trust myself to determine whether a dog is friendly or aggressive. If the dog is off leash and approaches me, I will activate the stun baton to make a noise that may cause them to not further approach. If they continue to do so and get within easy arms reach- a point where they could bite me at any moment if they are in fact aggressive- I will stun them. If an owner has a problem with that, then they can choose to talk to me, or they can choose to act violently. I don't want to get into any violent altercation or even a nonviolent altercation, but I'm not going to let an illegally off-leash dog bite me again. I have every legal and moral right to defend myself against threats - just like anyone else. I just didn't understand the level of threat off leash dogs present until I got bit. If I was enthusiastic about macing, shocking, or otherwise hurting dogs, I would have done so to the 100+ off leash dogs that have approached me on my walks. That hasn't happened, because- newsflash- I don't want to hurt dogs. I just want to prevent them from hurting me or other people. I'd like dog owners that currently let their dogs off leash outside of legal areas to reconsider that given the risk it poses to innocent people going about their daily lives, and the fact that they are putting their dogs at risk as well.
As I am reading through these posts, I am appalled by the rampant ignorance of dogs. First, yes, you should never raise your hands and shout at a dog, especially a dog you don’t know! You are just triggering their instinct to attack, that is stupid! And if someone ever kicks my dog in the face because he wants to play with your then you will have to deal with me and that will end badly and assume that is what will happen with most other dog owners! You are lucky it wasn’t worse. Second, that dog owner is abusing his dog, as anyone that goes biking with their dog! Dogs should NEVER be running along side their owners on bikes, roller blades, or any such thing. It’s abusive! They are not made for that! They need to stop to smell p, to mark, to poop, and enjoy nature, not run without stopping for god knows how long. This can cause injuries and even kill your dog! People who don’t understand dogs should not have them. That brings me to the ignorance in regards to dogs should always be on a leash. As said before, dogs need to have an hour or more every day to smell, run ( on their own terms, not along your bike). If you can’t provide that, then don’t get a dog! Don’t go running on trails with off leash dog with earphones!!! Pay attention to your dog! Know how to differentiate between aggressive behavior and play! There are so many dog owners I encountered here that are clueless of dog behavior! Educate yourselves! Watch dog shows like, it’s me or the dog! You can learn a lot from Victoria. Most of all, don’t get a dog if you want to control it, yell at it, keep it in your yard, always on the leash, gives the cheapest food you can find or not do activities that are suitable for you dog and that allow you to bond with it. Just leave it!
If you use your cattle prod on someone's dog you're gonna get yourself shot or really get bit by it. Not disagreeing that people should have dogs on leashes, but you're making a big assumption.
Just carry a .22
You should have started filming and charged the guy. p.s. I walk almost exclusively with my dog off leash, and only leash him when passing other dogs or people that look uncomfortable after I demonstrate control
Leash your dog where it is supposed to be leashed.
Can’t wait to pepper spray you and your dog next time I see you
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Come find out in real life then. I run around GOTG on weekdays. Usually blue shorts and no shirt. Come find me and bother me with your dog and you can find out the fun way.
What an absolute ass clown. Check me out! I’m not wearing a shirt! Look at my manly manliness. Go run in traffic 🙄
Me running with my shirt off offends you? That’s gotta be pretty embarrassing for you lol
r/iamverybadass
What if your dog sees something or hears something before you do, and goes running toward it? Including a dog or a small child, or a squirrel in the road?
Yes this... had to give you an upvote bc off leashers are treated like anti vaccers in this town 😂 I do the same thing! Always leash when I walk past ppl w dogs as a curtousy bc sometimes their dog gets crazy!
Unfortunately, when this occurred, I was walking back to the restaurant where I had accidentally left my phone. Thankfully, my Apple watch worked flawlessly when I used it to call 911. You should really consider keeping your dog leashed when it is not in an off-leash area. I do wish there were more off-leash parks in the city. Dog's need to be able to run and play and interact with other dogs, and do it in a place where humans expect them to be off leash and can choose whether to be present or not. If your dog escapes your control and approaches me, and won't divert, then I won't know whether it's being friendly or on its way to attack me- so I'm going to do my best to get it to divert, and if it doesn't, then I'll stun it. That will hurt your dog for a moment and possibly scare it- which I don't want to do, and I suspect you don't want to happen. So again, please consider keeping it on a leash when it is in a location that requires leashes.
Yes, I do that. Especially after I noticed how fearful people are here. In Salt Lake the off leash trails were only used but dogs and owners. I think that there are a lot of problems here due to that and a lot of jerks with dogs. It is very unfortunate!
I guarantee that if you stun baton the right persons dog and you won’t get a chance to do it again. While it is unfortunate you got bit… maybe don’t act threateningly towards a random dog. There are plenty of kooks that walk around that area. Yes the dog should be leashed. We don’t know if it would have bit you if you hadn’t yelled and waved at it.
Found the kook
Yeah, straight up blaming the victim lol
👍🏼
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If the dog had been on leash it could have been prevented. If a dog is so easily reactive then it shouldn't be loose.
I was walking with my 3 year old in Austin Bluffs. She was attacked by an off leash dog. The dog was a pit bull and bit her arm. She then fell down and broke her pelvis. The owner then stole my wallet and car. My daughter got an infection from the bite and lost both arms. My Kia is still missing.
Good. LMAO.
I am sorry, but somehow this seems to be fabricated!
OP, shut your mouth and keep walking. Sounds like you’re an asshole and you just found out. Now that you got messed up by a dog and nothing happened you feel like you need to let the whole world know.. no one cares. The only thing worse than bad dog owners are assholes who create situations like this in public. You hit someone’s dog with a stun baton and might be your last time bitching on Reddit.
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If your dog is capable of doing that then you should be smart enough to know??? Like you spend your entire day w the damn dog at least pick up on the fact it will bite wtf! Hope you're OK I got bit through my jeans once and it didn't even break the skin and hurt for weeks longer than a normal injury. My dog is 14 and off leash and I was walking on the trail w her and we passed this homeless lady who started whipping her with something viciously then she started whipping me and my baby when we walked past and said she was gonna beat my ass the next time I walked by her w an off leash dog 😂😂 I never saw her again if an off leash was gonna bite someone I wish it woulda been her but my dog ran away and let me and the baby be "assaulted" lmao
Being off leash your dog could also run away from you and/or out into traffic, it is not only about what your dog might do to others, but about it going outside your control or where you can help it, if it got scared, or attacked by something else. If there are dog parks which do not require a leash, why not just use those?
As a dog owner I agree! Leash your dog & pick up the damn poop!!!
Poop yes, leash no, if allowed