A stray dog is a homeless or abandoned dog wandering around. Many of us have come such at some point.
Although it's the responsibility of one to take care of his dog, there are those who do not take up this responsibility with the seriousness it deserves. Just recently, Nairobi County set aside Sh100 million to kill all stray dogs in the city.
Nonetheless, should you encounter a stray dog, you can do the following things to stay safe:
1.Carry food as distraction
Dogs love food and most stray dogs are hungry and so if you encounter a stray dog on the road, try distracting it with something to eat.
Throw the food farther from you so that the dog loses its focus on you as you find a safe place to escape to.
2. Don't run
Most people resort to fleeing after encountering a stray dog which is bad because when one runs, the dog takes it as a challenge and begins to chase you.
It is advisable you keep still until it goes away. Keep watch of the dog and don't make eye contact as it may interpret it as a threat.
3. Don't try hitting it
Trying to defend yourself by hitting the dog with a stick or stone will agitate it. Most dogs will not attack you if you keep still and do nothing.
4. Avoid shouting
In case you were just walking and all of a sudden a stray dog appears, fear engulfs you prompting you to react. This pushed the dog into attacking you but if it learns that you are harmless, it withdraws slowly.
Shouting at the dog or for help will make the dog furious and it may attack you. Unless it is a life-threatening situation, always remain mum.