I have to get serious now about getting some kind of self defense for Kasey and I. We live in a residential neightborhood in So. CA and we can't have lots of different weapons - I know, very lame! But every once in a while we get an aggressive dog coming after us and Kasey has gotten bit twice - poor Kasey just doesn't have a fighting bone in his body. Well, today was one of those days and I've had it.

I saw the walking stick Will had talked about last week, and I know there is pepper spray formulated specifically for dogs (but I'm afraid if it's windy Kasey and I will get the spray in our eyes), and there's tasers (but the dog has to get really close for that). But I've been hearing about the device that emits this high frequency that only the dog can hear and they claim it works really well to keep the dog from coming at you. Here's one: http://www.tbotech.com/dogchaser.htm.

Will, or anyone who's tried it, what do you think? What would your choice be between the dog pepper spray, the ultrasonic thingy above, or a stick? I just am not crazy about having to carry a stick every time we walk and then having beat some dog off!

Bear spray, an air horn, paintball gun, walking stick, a big rock, and steel toed boots are all things that I have used in the past and have found to be effective. I dislike those ultra sonic things because they're not terribly effective on dogs in drive.

Here's the problem... you have to be willing to defend yourself which may involve hurting or killing the attacking dog if the aggressive stance of getting between your dog and the offending aggressor isn't happening. 9/10 I can usually block dogs that way BUT there is always that 1/10 times where I either have to pick up the offending dog by the collar or drive it off if there is no collar. A walking stick is low tech but hard for people to truly wield effectively not because it's complicated or technical but because people don't like hurting dogs. I loved that video of Will's but when you get down to brass tacks how many of us are willing to hit a dog to make it hurt, unconscious, or dead only to deal with what will probably be a rather flabbergasted owner after we're done dealing with their dog?

 Quote: Melissa Thom

Here's the problem... you have to be willing to defend yourself which may involve hurting or killing the attacking dog if the aggressive stance of getting between your dog and the offending aggressor isn't happening. 9/10 I can usually block dogs that way BUT there is always that 1/10 times where I either have to pick up the offending dog by the collar or drive it off if there is no collar. A walking stick is low tech but hard for people to truly wield effectively not because it's complicated or technical but because people don't like hurting dogs. I loved that video of Will's but when you get down to brass tacks how many of us are willing to hit a dog to make it hurt, unconscious, or dead only to deal with what will probably be a rather flabbergasted owner after we're done dealing with their dog?

Man, I hate to agree with you on this Melissa, but I basically do. A person would have to be very fast, very skilled, and very coordinated to make that stick work. If a dog was attacking mine in earnest, I have no problem hurting the dog, but I doubt my ability do it in a way that prevents my dog from being hurt too. Therefore, I think the bear spray is probably the best solution. Might get some on your own dog, but it will wear off. If it deters bears, it should work with dogs, though as you implied, a dog in drive could still potentially cause some damage.

Say, for example, the dog has engaged your dog and has him under the neck. Spray that bear spray in his face/nose - I doubt he'd hang on too long. Get your dog out of there in a hurry, get him home and washed down. Might be good to research the antidote to that spray ahead of time in case you have to treat yourself or your dog.

I might be able to use the stick as a cudgel or a poker for a bit. At 53, unfortunately, and as much as I hate to admit it, I likely just don't have the coordination that I used to.

It would benefit all, by the way, to read Ed's article about how to break up a dog fight. It's very well done IMO.

 Quote: Melissa Thom

Here's the problem... you have to be willing to defend yourself which may involve hurting or killing the attacking dog if the aggressive stance of getting between your dog and the offending aggressor isn't happening.......when you get down to brass tacks how many of us are willing to hit a dog to make it hurt, unconscious, or dead only to deal with what will probably be a rather flabbergasted owner after we're done dealing with their dog?

Me, for one. But that goes for anything trying to cause me or mine harm. That said, I completely understand and empathise with those who can't for whatever reason.

I live in Carlsbad, Ca and I carry a walking stick most times when I walk Ashie my service dog. And I always carry a knife. I was a Flight Medic and have seen what happens to those who cannot defend themselves or their loved ones when the moment arrives. That will not happen to me as long as their is breath in my lungs. If something does not respond to a warning and attacks me, my family or my dog, I will not hesitate.

3 weeks ago walking at night we were charged by a very aggressive sounding dog. Turning and raising my staff was enough to stop it about 8 feet away, we were lucky. On an upbeat, Ashie responded perfectly and stayed quietly and calmy by my side allowing me to focus on the threat. Thanks to Mr Frawley's teachings.

My recomendation for those not able to wield a staff effectively is the spray, small and easy to carry and use.

Good luck to you.

I do take a variety of "weapons" with me plus an additional choke/leash. I feel like I need the option to step up defense if needed.

Causing pain to another creature is just not in me, at least in the premediated mode. However I have been in the situation where the dog did not back off. Instinct, protection mode or whatever it is just takes over. I need to do what I need to do, the best I can. I have also learned that my hands alone are of no use. Feel guilty afterwards, for me...you bet.

Any site with a "ninja gear" section gets my vote!

How about gas blowback airsoft pistol? At point blank range, that's gonna hurt just a tad.

 Quote: scott garrett

Any site with a "ninja gear" section gets my vote!

Why does that not surprise me…

Could you tell me if you own nun chucks? I have a standing bet with someone that you do.

Lori,
The ultrasound device doesn't work - it's just a scam, don't waste your money.

In a choice between a stick and pepper spray, I'd take the stick every time.

This dear website

http://www.tbotech.com/dogchaser.htm has throwing ninja stars and throwing knives! Reminds me of this South Park episode

Wonder what dummy security cameras are for?

 Quote: Ana Kozlowsky

has throwing ninja stars and throwing knives!

He has those too, be careful, very careful...ninjas are silent.....sssshhhhhh...