What to do if a stray dog follows you? - briefly
If a stray dog follows you, remain calm and avoid making direct eye contact or sudden movements. Slowly walk away while keeping your distance, and if the dog continues to follow, seek shelter in a nearby building or call local animal control for assistance.
What to do if a stray dog follows you? - in detail
If you find yourself being followed by a stray dog, it is important to remain calm and proceed with caution. Here are some steps to guide you through this situation:
Firstly, assess the dog's behavior. Observe if the dog appears aggressive or fearful. Aggressive signs include bared teeth, growling, and a stiff posture. If the dog exhibits these behaviors, do not attempt to approach it. Instead, back away slowly and find a safe place to stay until the dog leaves.
If the dog seems friendly but is still following you, try to discourage its behavior. Do not encourage the dog by petting or playing with it. Ignore the dog and keep walking at a steady pace. If the dog continues to follow, change your route or cross the street if it is safe to do so.
In some cases, the dog may be lost or in need of help. If you decide to assist the dog, approach it slowly and calmly, allowing it to sniff your hand before attempting to pet it. Once you have gained its trust, check for any identification tags on its collar. If there are no tags, take the dog to a local veterinarian or animal shelter where they can scan for a microchip and attempt to reunite it with its owner.
It is crucial not to feed the dog as this may encourage it to follow you further or become dependent on human food. Additionally, avoid leaving the dog in a dangerous area such as a busy road or near other aggressive animals.
If you are unable to care for the dog yourself, contact local animal control services or a nearby rescue organization. They have the resources and expertise to handle stray dogs appropriately.
Lastly, always prioritize your safety and the well-being of the dog. If at any point you feel threatened or uncertain about the situation, do not hesitate to seek help from authorities or experienced individuals in handling animals.