Almost nothing can be more terrifying than a vicious animal going after you or one of your loved ones. Like many other New Jersey residents, you consider your pets to be members of your family. You might feel helpless if you are walking your dog and another dog attacks. Many of the members of Lieberman, Ryan & Forrest, L.L.C., also love pets, and we understand the fear and outrage you would feel if your dog or cat was injured or killed by another person’s animal.
What steps can you take to protect your pet from an aggressive dog? According to the Mercury News, limiting or restricting your pet from contact with other dogs might be the most effective solution, and proper training and understanding dog behavior may also help. You might consider the following tips:
- Keep your dog on a leash when going on a walk.
- If you see another dog, cross the street if possible or walk the other way.
- Understand how your dog reacts around other dogs, such as being nervous, aggressive or overly friendly, and realize that dogs may be unpredictable.
- Keep your cats indoors, if possible.
- Be extremely cautious when taking your dog to a dog park or area where dogs are allowed to run off leash. It may be wise to avoid these areas for your dog’s safety.
- Consider enrolling your dog in obedience classes to teach him or her to stay by your side and return when called.
It is not only your pet’s safety at stake if another dog attacks. While attempting to protect your dog or cat, you may get pulled into the conflict and injured yourself. A negligent dog owner may be held liable for both your injuries and your pet’s, as our page on dog bites explains.