DEAR ABBY: Last 12 months, a pricey pal was attacked by dogs and killed. My household enjoys mountain climbing on public trails. Lately, nevertheless, our walks haven’t been fulfilling. I turn out to be nervous and really upset each time I encounter dogs off-leash. I often find yourself expressing my worry and asking the proprietor to place their dogs on a leash.
My 16-year-old daughter shouldn’t be comfy once I do that. Her view is that the homeowners have educated their dogs effectively sufficient to be off leash. I disagree. I inform her that animals are unpredictable, and I’m talking out as a result of my pal was killed by dogs. Please assist us perceive one of the best ways to deal with this example which leads to battle. — WALKING SCARED IN WISCONSIN
DEAR WALKING: Your daughter’s view is naive. Although nearly all of canine homeowners are accountable and socialize and prepare their pets, not all of them accomplish that, and the outcome might be tragic. Your pal’s loss of life is an instance.
When your daughter decides to hike, she ought to at all times have somebody along with her, and carry pepper spray or gel to keep off a (doable) attack not solely by canines but additionally people. (Sorry, that’s a actuality lately.) As for you, you may be higher off emotionally if, in the meanwhile, you get your cardio train on a treadmill in a health club or at home.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also called Jeanne Phillips, and was based by her mom, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
