View Full Version : Dogs
rakuwoman13
08-21-2001, 02:27 PM
Does anyone have a good solution for getting dogs not to chase you? I don't want to hurt the dog, just stop it from chasing me!
Mary T.
08-21-2001, 05:12 PM
I could race and win if you put a dog behind me. My friend Linda and I are usually tied for the "dog sprint". The only thing I can say is talk to the game warden and get him to notify the owner of the dog that is a threat to you. You could also call the owner yourself if the name is listed on the mailbox or you know them. I have done this in the past when we have a weekly ride. I let the owner know we will be riding by their house every Tuesday night at 6:15 so please keep your dog in.
My bike club posted an article saying that you should yell "Go Home" to the dog and I have been doing that ever since. It works sometimes.
The best method I have found is to get faster!
webby2
08-22-2001, 04:07 PM
I have been have seen shouting "go home" loud work. Also, riding faster is good advice, the dogs natural instinct is to come up from behind, which is where you want it to be, behind you, not at your side or at your front wheel. Often, once the dog has run to the end of his "territory" he will stop. Try squirting your water bottle at it if it gets too close, I've seen this work too. I have heard of a commercial dog repellent call "Halt" though I haven't tried it.
Is it always the same dog? If so, see if you can befriend it. Say "Come on! Let's go!" While I have never been chased by an aggressive dog (and I know they're out there), I have raced a few. And they always win the sprint. I'd rather have it be a friendly race than a race with a bite at the end. They can put on an amazing burst of short-term speed. Not sure of their top end, but pretty sure it's higher than mine.
My philosophy as regards dogs is this: they are instinctual pack animals with a strict hierarchy. They want to know where they fall in the pack; and are, of course, instinctively mistrustful of members of other "packs" (which includes us). Let the dog know, right away, your position in the pack. And that position is... above his/hers. If you don't want that dog bothering/following/chasing you, say so, loudly, firmly (and don't let your voice crack while commanding "No. Go home!") ;)
This will sound like a cliche, but don't show fear. If you show fear, you are inferior, and they can take you down (look it up... it's in the rule book... unless, of course, you're a puppy, then that's against the rules... "Not allowed to hurt the puppies"... but human adults are never "puppies"... kids are sometimes, but not necessarily).
If a dog attacks, get something (like your bike) between you and it, hopefully until it loses interest or someone arrives to help. As much as I love dogs (I've grown up around dogs, and have three now), I've made a determination to myself that if I ever have to fend off an attacking dog, I will hurt it, as badly as possible. If it's attacking me, it's because one or the other of us has violated the rules. Once someone breaks the rules, it's gonna be a fight.
Having spouted all my brave rhetoric, I have to admit to quailing inwardly when I pass a Rottweiler ("Please, please, please, doggy, stay inside the fence. Don't eat me."). So far, they've all stayed inside the fence. Here's a corollary to The Rules: Don't Mess With A Rottweiler (or any other aggressive breed). I think that the aggressive breeds also operate under the same rules of behavior of the other other dogs, with the exception that they'll break them sooner, and once they clamp on, they won't let go.
Whew! I think I'll go home and play with my Golden Retrievers now. :)
Lin
marys
08-26-2001, 05:32 PM
dsfa :eek: My experience with dogs has been that most will leave me alone once they are used to seeing me. I don't race them; I stop, turn around to face them, and yell very loudly-NO! GO HOME! Most will turn around or at least calm down. The really mean ones I shake my pump at; if that doesn't work, I have just recently begun carrying that Halt! spray. I hesitate to use it-I don't want to hurt the dog-it's really the owner who is at fault if a dog is misbehaving. But while walking my dog back in early May, he got attacked by an Akita-the owner was with it-and I ended up with a badly chewed dog and a broken hand. So far I've not had to spray any dog, but I did come very close once. The problem with sprays is that if you don't get the dog in the face, you'll probably just make them madder; and if there is a breeze, you may end up spraying yourself.
Overall though, if I yell really loudly and face the dog, they usually realize that I'm the boss, not them.
by the way, earlier in the thread, someone stated Rottweilers were mean dogs to be avoided-not so. They are actually quite friendly, if the owner hasn't ruined them. Try not to badmouth an entire breed over one poor owner. 'Course, I realize that's hard to remember when you have one chasing you....
See you on the road-good luck!
The Spin-ster
08-30-2001, 11:58 AM
Don't look the dog in the eyes, but yell "Go Home" and/or "No" forcefully. Don't increase or decrease speed and be aware that vehicular traffic may be cluless to what is going on so will not be ready for you to swerve. Have Mace, Halt or similar easily accessible on your handle bars and do not be afraid to use it. It will only have a temporary physical impact on the dog, but may help it learn that cyclists are not lunch on wheels.
The Spin-ster
09-02-2001, 02:58 PM
Just chatted with someone at my LBS. They said you can pick up some kind of noise-maker at a pet store that will keep dogs away from you. Haven't checked it out yet, but she swears by it. Keeps them from even getting close. I love dogs, bu not enough to provde them lunch if I am the entree!:p
DoubleLori
09-02-2001, 04:17 PM
My problem with dogs locally hasn't been with dogs that want to eat me for lunch. Rather, I've had a problem with a couple of too-friendly dogs who want to follow me for long distances. I had one follow me for 3 miles uphill recently. There was no way I could go faster to get away from it on the 8-9% grade (until I turned around at the summit and literally left it in the dust), so it just kept following me, wagging its tail the whole time. The scary part, was that despite my constant yelling for it to go home, it frequently stepped in front of me and I was afraid I was going to hit it and crash. A couple of cars coming down the hill as I was going up had to swerve to miss the silly dog too. I haven't seen any of the noisemakers to keep dogs away. I would be interested in hearing more about them.
spazzdog
08-03-2004, 05:15 AM
I have an Astralian Cattle Dog... a herder to his very last tail hair. It's instinctive and no matter what I do (short of buying one of those remote control shock collars :( ) he will herd. Fortunately he's a 'heeler', meaning he does his herding from the rear, nipping at the 'heels' of whatever he thinks he needs direct.
He has an obsession with bike tires... he's not interested in the riders, he just wants to stop those black round things that are ignoring his yipping demands. Plus, he discovered they're rubber and now believes they are the coolest chew toy going.
When I'm out with him on an off-lead run or playgroup, I keep my eyes peeled for cyclists. I snag him by his collar or leash him up until the cyclist is well out of site. However, I have missed a couple, and Quidditch being true to form has run a speeding trail biker down and stopped 'em cold... he actually grabs the back tire (while its moving) and chomps it. Then his job is done and he says hi to the rider.
Yes, I always pay for the tire... and have given a couple of cyclists rides home when they were way out of walking distance.
All have been very understanding... even amused. Thank goodness.
On another doggie subject: heres a link to a velonews article by Tyler Hamilton about his buddy, Tugboat. It's a 'kleenx required' read...
http://www.velonews.com/diaries/rider/articles/6639.0.html
KkAllez
08-03-2004, 02:52 PM
I have a blue heeler, too! Her name is Lucky Lucy aka Lulu. When I go running it takes her a few minutes to get it out of her system to not 'heel' me before we can get into a groove. We have 8 fenced acres I run with her in but I don't take her cycling.
The mechanic at my LBS said to squirt dogs with water bottles. So far I've 1)practiced my sprinting 2) put the dog between me and hubby 3) yelled in a firm tone, "NO GO HOME"
Then there was the time about ten years ago when hubby and I were in a 50 mile bike race and a huge labrador came running out at us and I panicked and rode blindly into a car, who fortunately saw it coming and had stopped so the damage was minimal.
The "NO GO HOME" seems to work best for us.
Someone once mentioned pepper spray but I'd hate to have to use that. I don't mean them any harm. I guess if I were facing a Cyclist Eating Monster Dawg I'd reconsider but the two dogs that bug us on the road are really old ancient mutts that mean no harm and just trot out to the edge of the road and bark like mad at us when we cycle by.
Speaking of cycling....gotta go ride!
Sparrow
08-03-2004, 03:17 PM
I'm a dog lover too ... was a groomer and trainer for 17 years. We get more than our share of loose dogs around here but most of them are no problem. Dogs who aren't familiar with bicycles aren't likely to recognize right off the bat that there are humans attached so we look like fair game to them. Most of the time these are friendly family pets and a gentle eye contact with a softly-spoken "well, hello there, fella" and you can watch their eyes soften as they realize there's a person up there and sit back. You can almost see the "oh bummer, THAT'S no fun!" thought-balloon over their heads. If that doesn't work, most dogs have at least learned the meaning of the word "no."
On the other hand, if a dog challenges me I'm not strong enough yet to try to outride him so I'll challenge him right back with my best top-of-the-lungs bring it on pal and I'll beat you to death with my bike voice accompanied by two more steps and I'll have you by the throat body language. The trick to the whole thing is to MEAN IT. If you don't firmly believe, beyond a shadow of a shade of a doubt, that you can kill that dog, don't start it. Thing is, I do ... at least, in that moment. ;)
That behavior on my part serves two purposes: First, I haven't met a dog yet that wasn't impressed enough to slow down long enough for me to get into a defensive (behind the bike) position, and second ... my voice is loud enough to bring the entire neighborhood out to see what's going on. Good fun at 5:30 in the morning. :D
Adventure Girl
08-03-2004, 04:32 PM
I normally wouldn't respond to a 3-year old thread, but I think the last two posters missed the point. spazzdog brought up this old thread and talked about how her dog nips at tires. Yes, the old "NO! BAD DOG" seems to be the preferred defense. But in this case, I think spazzdog needs to be more responsible and keep her dog leashed unless she has complete voice command. This is for the safety of both the cyclist and the dog!
Originally posted by spazzdog
I have missed a couple… I always pay for the tire… have given a couple of cyclists rides homeThis indicates that your dog has done this more than one or two times. What is it going to take for you to realize that you don't have control over Quidditch? The biggest problem you've encountered to date is paying for a few chewed tires. You, Quidditch and the cyclists have been very lucky.
Originally posted by Kim
a huge labrador came running out at us and I panicked and rode blindly into a car, who fortunately saw it coming and had stopped so the damage was minimal.You don't know how the cyclist is going to react. You know your dog is harmless, but the cyclist doesn't. A panicked cyclist could easily crash or run into a car and not be as lucky as Kim. There is also the risk of injury to your dog.
Originally posted by spazzdog
have given a couple of cyclists rides home when they were way out of walking distance.Also, please think about the fact that you have spoiled a more than one cyclist's ride. I assume that if they were "way out of walking distance", they were planning on riding more that day. But they ended up getting a ride home from you. And I'm not sure taking a ride from a stranger is such a great idea…
Irulan
08-03-2004, 04:39 PM
I hadn't read this thread carefully but now I have.
he actually grabs the back tire (while its moving) and chomps it. Then his job is done and he says hi to the rider.
all I can say is, you have got to be kidding - I am flabbergasted that you would allow your dog to do this more than once.
As a dog owner and a cyclist, I totally second AG's leash advice. Better, leave him/her at home until you can get it trained. Cyclists everywhere will thank you.
Ultimately it's the owner's responsiblity to train the dog properly, or control it so that it doesn't cause problems. Nothing ruins a ride more for me than a dog that doesn't have good manners, no matter how well intentioned the owner or how sweet the dog. Mine is a dork and although lovable he's not well trained ( my fault, not his) therefore he stays home.
And before someone says that it's in their breeding and they can't help it (herd instinct etc) , I took a malemute to blue ribbon in obedience. He knew the difference between a slack leash proper heel and his pulling harness. Hire a professional trainer if you don't have the skill to break your dog of this inappropriate behavior.
Irulan
spazzdog
08-03-2004, 06:18 PM
OK folks... before the flame gets any hotter. ..
Yes it is an issue and yes I continue to train my dog. I am a cyclist and 'get' the need, responsibility thing. It is a work in progress and he is getting better. I don't cop-out to the instinct thing... it is what it is. He's learning.
I have never endangered another cyclist. If he is out of reach I give a very loud warning to the cyclist, which has always been met with understanding and gratitude. There are lots of dogs around that cohabitate with the off road cyclists. The couple of rides I've given were before my dog was even a yr old. The riders were understanding... both were dog owners.
Be that as it may, I appreciate and understand your input.
Irulan
08-03-2004, 08:47 PM
I'm sad that you feel that two women expressing a strong opinion, politely,
that runs counter to your point of view is flaming, it is not. It's just a
different point of view. One should expect to encounter different points of view when posting to a public forum, people aren't always going to agree with you.
No one called you names, no one is hostile. I suspect that neither AG nor I would want to be on the recieving end of a dog that's training is a work in progress, that thinks bike tires are a chew toy.
I'm not known for my tactfulness, but I see nothing wrong with expressing
my opinion in a direct manner.
Irulan
spazzdog
08-04-2004, 12:36 AM
Public apology!!
I didn't mean flaming - flaming. I had a momentary lapse of cyber-speak there. And I certainly didn't find anything anyone said hostile.
Read this as shaking hands.
Now no giggling. As once again I have managed to step in the old cyber doggie doo, I need to retire to the curb and get it off my sneaker.
Limping off, with that squishy noise.....
pedalfaster
08-04-2004, 06:03 AM
I was surprised to see the dog thread pop up again too.
You can read my dog-encounter story here (http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1459)
I should mention that I am a huge dog-lover and a Cattle Dog owner as well.
I don't really care about the intent of the dog who took me down; I only know that my bike and my body were damaged.
So far the owner is looking at a tab of at least $600 US. More if he or his insurance company fight the bill and we go to court.
Getting off (so far) only paying for damaged tires is lucky .
If your dog takes down and damages a full XTR rig, you could easily be looking at a bill of thousands of dollars. If your dog should ever injure a rider (even just "playing") your tab could skyrocket to five or six figures. Your premiums will go through the roof....
Wouldn't you really rather save the cash for bike chi-chi's???
Not flaming, just being practical as usual
:cool:
caligurl
08-04-2004, 07:15 AM
i'm actually glad that this thread came back to the top.. because we seem to have a terrible time with dogs in my city :( and calling animal control seems to do no good.
first.. i have to agree with the others, spazz... i can't believe you've let your dog chomp on tires more than once :( i'm still a new rider with new rider bike handling skills.. i'm sorry.. but if you were in my town and your dog bit my bike.. i would call animal control on you no matter how nice you were! that's just downright dangerous and unless a dog is in a fenced secured area or in a house or in a dog park.. i'm a firm believer that they have no business being off leash..
as for deterring chasing dogs.. i'm going to remember the NO GO HOME! i do carry dog mace but am reluctant to use it (i am a dog mommie after all... and don't really want to hurt another dog)... but like someone said.. if someone breaks the rules.. then the dog is getting sprayed!
i had a new dog experience sunday... we actually had many dogs want to run with us... hubby would say "come on" and "race" with them.. however on the way back.. all the sudden at one house.. FIVE dogs! HOLY POOP! this is after 30 miles (the longest i have ever gone so far.. so i'm tired! it was a slight upgrade... hubby said to me "GO" and i took off... didn't know i had it in me... fortunately the dogs did stop at thier property line (i didn't know it) and hubby was yelling to me to stop (didn't hear/understand him.. just kept peddling for my life screaming "are they still coming"... looking back it's comical.. cuz like i said.. didn't know i had it in me!
now hubby jokes and tells me to push myself by looking for those 5 dogs...
jobob
08-04-2004, 07:54 AM
Spazzdog,
I had to wait a day before I responded to this thread. I am still deeply upset by what you say you allow your dog to do.
I have never endangered another cyclist. If he is out of reach I give a very loud warning to the cyclist, which has always been met with understanding and gratitude. What do you do, yell out "Uh, look out, my dog might take a chomp out of your tire... d'oh, terribly sorry 'bout that ....!!!" ?
I wholeheartedly disagree with your assessment that you "have never endangered another cyclist".
On the contrary, you have absolutely and without a doubt endangered other cyclists by your inability to control your dog and your unwillingness to restrain it appropriately under situations in which you are fully aware you cannot control it.
I laid awake last night imagining the terror I would experience if a dog chased me down and attacked me on my bicycle.
The fact that you are a cyclist makes your actions even more unfathomable and, in my mind, inexcusable.
If you do continue to disregard the safety and well-being of others by putting your dog in situations in which you cannot control it, you should probably have a good lawyer lined up for the inevitable day in which your actions cause serious injury and/or significant property damage.
I have zero tollerance for negligent dog owners. Google the name Diane Whipple.
- Joanne
Trek420
08-04-2004, 08:22 AM
In the helpfull, kind , supportive, non-flaming tone of this board as a dog owner (pitbull mix) and a cyclist, I second AG's leash/training advice.
I think the operative quote is this:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
he actually grabs the back tire (while its moving) and chomps it. Then his job is done and he says hi to the rider.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
"his job"....every dog has a job, your dog thinks "his job" is herding tires. He does his job then is rewarded, gets to say "hi" to the "herd". You wouldn't work for free, right? You work, get a reward (pay), your dog is being rewarded for doing the thing you DON'T want him to do.
He needs another job ;-)
He needs to be payed for that job. Dogs are "learning machines"
His job could be a promotion to "sitting as the bike goes by or doing a "watch me"". Professional herding dogs have that behavior, sitting or lying low so as not to spook the herd. Your dog can learn it too. The closer he gets to that behavior he gets a reward from you (treat, attention, toy). What your dog will work for? You could enlist the help of another rider to ride by and if he sits THEN the rider stops for a pet, no sit? Just rides by.
When I adopted my dog from the pound she barely had two tricks (sit, shake) but was not leash trained or socialized. Walking? forget about it, she'd pull your arm out of its sockets, she could not see another dog or she'd go nuts-uncontrolable, likewise bikes.
I knew that if she became a menace in the neighborhood, bit another dog or cyclist I'd have to put her down or keep her totaly fenced/locked. If she could not be walked by others then I can't get away, no one would be willing to watch her.
So I took her to an obedience class and worked with her myself every day. She now walks well on her loose leash, heels, on the "wrong side" but hey, at least she heels.
She may never be able to go into a dog park, she is part pitt and though she looks like a lab she has that "genetic whisper". But now when she sees other dogs she barks "I want to play" not "I'm scared of you and want to eat you alive".
We go to the dog park but we walk outside. But she loves this and we could never have done it before.
She's fine with bikes too. On the bike part I trained her while riding my cycleops in the off season! I'd ride and tuck yummy treats in my pocket, as she did her tricks I'd reward her verbaly ("yes, good dog" etc) then do a "find it" (toss the treat, she goes to find).
Deliberately I did not want to reward her for approaching a bike or getting near the wheels but she now associates bikes with training/treat times and is calm when they ride by like if a kid is riding on the sidewalk where we walk.
She's not perfect but she's come such a long way, like a different dog.
You have a wonderful and smart dog, your dog can learn! and it's such a bonding experience to train your dog....
well gotta go walk Mae....hope this helps
oh, just another quick note before I go, I was previewing this note and saw my footnote, the LA quote.
Don't you give up on this dog. When I started taking Mae to the dog park I had so much support from "dog people" they saw how much trouble Mae had being around other dogs and constantly complimented us for trying. They all said "thank you for not giving up on your dog" when she had good days (not reacting to other dogs) they noticed, when she had bad days (went nuts) they kept encouraging us. Your dog can learn, your dog depends on you, don't give up on him.
kimba
08-04-2004, 07:00 PM
I'm sorry- I have to get in here too-
I had a dog that was part border collie- herding was in her genes too. I worked at a drive in theatre, she had run of the property during the day. But she started to chase the cars coming onto the field.
I had to nip that behaviour in the bud right away- for her own safety. And you do too- you cannot take a chance that your dog,while not leashed - would, however innocentl you think it is- harm another cyclist or itself.
I have seen what happens when people walk their dogs down a busy thoroughfare while not leashed- in one case the dog ran after something out of the blue and was killed by a car,in front of the family, including the kids. Why? He'd never done that before- but he was not under control- and I'm sorry but the owners were responsible. I've almost killed dogs who were off leash and the animal just jumped out of the car, and into the road. And the owner gives me attitude!
My border collie cross saw a deer and jumped out of the car window to chase it - took us all by surprise- fortunately she had a harness and a leash on, and hung outside the window unhurt until I brought the car to an almost immediate stop.
But it just goes to show you, even the most obedient dogs- and she had been through full obediance training -can surprise you.
You are in denial, that it is a "cute thing" that your dog does. A cute trick...It isn't- it is potentially dangerous for both your dog and unsuspecting cyclists.
Don't get me wrong- I love dogs, have owned them all my life, and had some pretty spectacular and emotionally important animals. But I never trusted them- they still have pack instincts.
If your animal cannot be trusted around cyclists then it is YOUR responsiblilty to ensure that it are leashed while outside AT ALL TIMES.Otherwise you will find yourself on the other end of a decidely uncute lawsuit, and possible charges...and your dog may even lose it's life.
I'm sorry to be so blunt- but when you tell a story like this as if it is acceptable, and even amusing - then you are fooling yourself, and allowing your dog to maintain this behaviour, even though you say you are "working" on it. By laughing about it you are condoning it- bottom line.
Controlling your dog is the only way to stop it.
And that means keeping it on a leash, and obedience training.
Sorry.
Kimba
KkAllez
08-05-2004, 06:57 AM
Per mace/pepper spray: I'd think the risk of having that stuff blow back on you is too great to consider using it so it is really out of the question for me.
When I panicked and hit the car, which thank God stopped as she saw what was happening, it was ten years ago. I learned a highly valuable lesson: Kim is a 'take flight' rider so she better make sure she LOOKS before she flees in the direction of which she flees to.
I didn't realize this was an old post, however, a very interesting and valuable one. Ben and I tend to pick routes that avoid dogs if all possible. Right now our big worry is ratttlesnakes as they give birth here in Texas in August and you simply can't see the little critters until you are right up on and over one. Thus far I've not run over one, but probably would swerve into an eighteen wheeler preferring that over a snake any day. (Just kidding gals! I really have gotten control of my panic button in the past ten years. After all, this ol gal is nearly 40 ya know! Age and wisdom!)
caligurl
08-05-2004, 07:01 AM
Originally posted by Kim
Per mace/pepper spray: I'd think the risk of having that stuff blow back on you is too great to consider using it so it is really out of the question for me.
i carry it... but do realize that if the time ever comes that i may have to use it.. it may end up on me...
it never fails that i encounter the most dogs on windy days when i wouldn't/couldn't consider using the mace anyways :(
ultimately i guess if he/she were that close (or chomping on my and i still had my wits.. which is doubtful) i guess i'd give him a squirt!
spazzdog
08-05-2004, 07:26 AM
First off - I appreciate and understand everyones feedback regarding my dog and his earlier tire obsession. As I said in an earlier post... I didn't feel uncomfortable with the concerns posted afterward. I wanted to clear up one other thing - i.e. the 'style' the story was written.
I tend to be lighthearted in my storytelling... I know that, with the absence of face-to-face obsevation, it may appear that I don't 'get' the seriousness of the issue - for that I apologize to the group. I do get it... I am a dog lover and a great believer in a well behaved pet. I also realize the dangers, both to cyclist and pet, regarding possible accidents. For those of you who may have been offended or thought I was simply a nutcase with a bad dog... again, apologies.
Now, as to mace/pepper spray deterants; I noticed for some there was a hesitation (in thought) to use them for fear of hurting the animal. Might I suggest a deterrant I've found to be useful: citronella spray. I use it on Quidditch as a training aid and it works where no other means has. It was recommended to me by a trainer.
The citronella doesn't hurt the dog physically, but a spray to the face really stops the action... most hate it. It's used in no-bark collars and the like as an alternative to shock collars. Admittedly, pepper spray is probably more of a sure thing since it tends to stop anything.
Just a thought...
I think its good that this thread is open again... it is an informative and supportive means of sharing info regarding what, for some, is a scary facet of cycling. The more folks that share their stories and what worked, the better equipped everyone is.
Respectfully - spazzdog
jobob
08-05-2004, 08:39 AM
Thanks spazzdog. Very good advice, I appreciate it.
Where can one find citronella spray, is it known by some tradename ?
Regards, - Jo.
Trek420
08-05-2004, 09:09 AM
just a quick note, I favor a positive approach in all things...consider carrying treats if you know a dog is on your route!
You could toss the treat and the dog goes for that. Except that you are rewarding the dog for chasing but it could result in the dog LIKING cyclsits
caligurl
08-05-2004, 09:29 AM
Originally posted by Trek420
just a quick note, I favor a positive approach in all things...consider carrying treats if you know a dog is on your route!
You could toss the treat and the dog goes for that. Except that you are rewarding the dog for chasing but it could result in the dog LIKING cyclsits
my mailman does that! always has a box of milkbones in his vehicle! lol!:)
spazzdog
08-05-2004, 09:37 AM
I use the stuff that came with the collar... I just buy a couple extra refill canisters. It's Premier Citronella Refill, found in pet stores and online pet supply under training collars.
The refill canisters are about 6 inches tall and easy to hold (think small bottle of hair spray/product). The only thing is, since it is made to refill the collar dispenser it doesn't have one of those little squirty buttons on top... you know the thing on top of the spray starch that falls off all the time :) ). So, I went through all the spray cannisters in the house (perfume, spray starch, etc) until I found one that fit... presto-chango a handheld doggie deterrant! There may be other sources for this stuff that come already equipped for 'combat', but this is works for me.
One of the good things about citronella, is that if blowback does occur, and it hits you, the worst thing that will happen is the mosquitos and flies will leave you alone :D . That is assumng that you have no allergy to citronella.
**Please use all tools in accordance with ones own health needs.
Deanna
08-05-2004, 10:16 AM
An even "cleaner" method is just a squirt of plain old water in the face--it will distract a dog enough for a cyclist to make their getaway. You don't need to carry any extra equipment and the only drawback is if you really need that water. I have been fortunate to only be "chased" by fenced dogs, but my husband has used this method a couple of times and it's worked.
kimba
08-05-2004, 01:34 PM
vinegar and water works well too-
it gives a little something for them to be concerned about without hurting them...
they don't like the smell, and if it gets in their eyes it'll sting a bit. But a least you don't have to worry about blow back in a wind.
Kimba
Sparrow
08-05-2004, 03:41 PM
Originally posted by Kim
Right now our big worry is ratttlesnakes as they give birth here in Texas in August and you simply can't see the little critters until you are right up on and over one. Thus far I've not run over one, but probably would swerve into an eighteen wheeler preferring that over a snake any day.
A bit off-topic but I had to share this one with you, Kim -- one of the worst moments thus far of my (short) cycling career was last fall ... I was about fifteen miles out, decided to rest for a moment and catch my breath, coasted to a stop on the shoulder of the road, started to put my foot down, looked down to the ground where I was dropping my foot ... the look on that rattlesnake's face was probably similar to my own: sheer horror! I'm pretty sure that's the fastest I've ever pedaled.
spazzdog
08-05-2004, 04:14 PM
We could change the thread to:
Dogs, Snakes and Other Critters... :eek:
or
Critters and Speed... ;)
or
I Love Animals, But Can I Tell You About the Time... :rolleyes:
Ain't cycling fun!! :D
jobob
08-05-2004, 04:32 PM
I could tell you about the time I got surrounded by a herd of goats ....
and then there are the crazy squirrels that like to dart out in front of me ....
and then there are the really nasty hissing geese ...
it's a freakin' jungle out there ! :eek:
- Jobob, crazed animal magnet
pedalfaster
08-05-2004, 04:35 PM
Originally posted by spazzdog
We could change the thread to:
Dogs, Snakes and Other Critters... :eek:
or
Critters and Speed... ;)
or
I Love Animals, But Can I Tell You About the Time... :rolleyes:
Oh yeah, even after my dog-incident the animals I fear most are....drumroll please....DEER. Yes, as in Bambi. I see so many, and feel that it is only by luck that we have avoided colliding so far!
I've seen what the poor beasts do to cars and can only imagine what bike/deer interface would look like :rolleyes:
Veronica
08-05-2004, 04:36 PM
I hit a squirrel going up Diablo the weekend of the Riv trip. :( Stupid thing darted in front of me, I weaved to go around it. It darted back the other way. The guy behind me said that it limped off the road. I HOPE he didn't say that just to make me feel better.
V.
snapdragen
08-05-2004, 04:45 PM
Random thoughts....
First - ladies, be proud of yourselves. You've taken what could have turned in to an ugly thread, and found reason and calm. Dare I say, if this was anywhere else, the flame wars would be horrifying! Cheers and Huzzah!
Next - jobob, we'll talk about dogs on day 4 for academy :D
Critters - I've never had much trouble with dogs, though I was on a ride going through Fremont, our ride leader almost got taken out by a Bambi!
Squirrels - well, we already know they have a plot.....................:eek:
Sparrow
08-05-2004, 04:48 PM
Originally posted by jobob
it's a freakin' jungle out there ! :eek:
- Jobob, crazed animal magnet LOL!
My current favorite is the herd (too many to be just a flock) of geese on the bike path who stop dead in the middle of the path and look up at oncoming cyclists with the most hysterical myopic-bemused look on their faces. All we can do is slow to an almost-halt and weave through them ... 'scuse me, pardon me, watch yer toes, comin' through, do I need to get a bell? Whoops, mind the tail feathers, madam!
Veronica
08-05-2004, 04:55 PM
Squirrels - well, we already know they have a plot.....................
Too true. Especially if you believe the car insurance ads.
How about mountain biking with a herd of cows? They don't like to move.
V.
pedalfaster
08-05-2004, 06:34 PM
Originally posted by Veronica
How about mountain biking with a herd of cows? They don't like to move.
V.
I got chased by a bull once on a moutain bike ride. Talk about working on your sprint!;)
caligurl
08-06-2004, 06:58 AM
Originally posted by pedalfaster
I got chased by a bull once on a moutain bike ride. Talk about working on your sprint!;)
OH MY GAWD! i would have totally FREAKED!!!!!!!!!!!!
KkAllez
08-06-2004, 07:04 AM
The thing about geese is sort of frightening. Those things can be mean but worst of all is what they leave behind. Since I road bike I'm thinking geese mess and slick tires are a recipe for disaster!
BTW, did any of you catch that moment in TdF this year when they had to ride carefully behind the cattle? It was pretty funny and the guys were all laughing. I guess a cowpie would be waaaaaay worse than goose pudding. Just imagine that stuff being slung up on the back of your jersey! :eek:
Veronica
08-06-2004, 07:20 AM
How about bison turd? On our Yellowstone tour one of the riders collected some fresh bison scat to give to one of the guides since he was the king of BSing. It was hilarious and so appropriate, but kind of gross too.
V.
Deanna
08-06-2004, 08:32 AM
Oh yeah, even after my dog-incident the animals I fear most are....drumroll please....DEER. Yes, as in Bambi. I see so many, and feel that it is only by luck that we have avoided colliding so far!
Phew. You don't know how relieved I am to know I'm not the only one with this fear. I ride on some roads that run next to wooded hillsides and when I hear critters rustling around I start wondering when a deer is going to come crashing out through the shrubs and landing on me.
Biking Chick
08-09-2004, 04:24 AM
It must be THAT time of the year:D
Last week while out biking on a heavily wooded area of our local nature/fitness trail that runs along the Wisconsin River I was very startled to hear the sound of Sandhill Cranes ... really REALLY close. A check of my (Third Eye) mirror showed two cranes flying right behind me. Quickly unclipping and pulling over into some brush they flew by - one was so close I had to duck my head in order to avoid being brushed by its wing. Gives a new meaning to 'honking' ...
Over the week-end out biking on the roads near our vacation home and had two HUGE Timber Wolves run out of the woods and across the road about a half-mile in front of us. They continued loping across the field ... Al and I stopped to watch them as they stopped to look back at us. All though we've seen wolves occasionally this is the first time that we've ever encountered wolves on our rides. Frightening and awesome at the same time
Cindy
Ride Like A Girl!
spazzdog
08-09-2004, 05:05 AM
Biking Chick wrote:
one was so close I had to duck my head in order to avoid being brushed by its wing. Gives a new meaning to 'honking' ...
I'm thinking they was just saying "on your left... on your left"
and misjudged. They probably weren't wearing their prescription Oakleys :D .
spazz
Biking Chick
08-09-2004, 05:20 AM
Originally posted by spazzdog
[They probably weren't wearing their prescription Oakleys :D .
spazz [/B]
I was wondering if they were commenting ... 'Well ... there goes the neighborhood'
Cindy
Ride Like A Girl!
Justina
08-09-2004, 08:01 PM
Man all you girls are sooo nice. first of all who ever lets their dogs run loose like that to terrorise anyone should be forced to wrestle an angry pit bull. Second if some dog comes after me and I can't out ride it I will defend myself anyway I can I don't care if i have kill it. Iv'e been bitten and as a dog owner you have no right to let your will fuzzy beast behave that way.The longer you let that go on the harder it is to stop. I have a large german shepard who I love dearly but I will kill it myself if she ever bites anyone. At my house I am always the Alfa Dog and so are you.
Irulan
08-10-2004, 07:44 AM
Alpha dog training is a great way to go for many breeds.
The Monks of New Skete have written some excellent books on the subject, "how to be your dog's best friend" originally published in 1978 is the classic on the subject.
Oh, this subject upset plenty of us, there are just alternatives to name calling and flaming.
irulan
spazzdog
09-22-2004, 01:29 PM
In one of the "dog" forums there was a discussion of deterrents (pepper spray or mace or whatever). I mentioned a training aid I use for Quid, my bike tire chomper.
It's citronella spray. Goes in a special collar and whenever the negative behavior (i.e. barking) occurs, the collar gives the dog a squirt right up in front of their nose. Anyway, in the discussion I mentioned retrofitting a collar refill for carrying.
After that escapade, I emailed the company. Turns out they make a product specifically for us outdoorsy types who need a deterrent but don't want to blind or hurt the critter in question.
We just want to STOP them and go on our merry way. The sales rep sent me 2 bottles FOR FREE.
Well girls, here it is: Direct Stop by Premier. Even has a handy dandy clip so it won't bounce out of your jersey. It lists for $12.99 on their website http://www.animalbehaviorsystems.com/category.cfm?Category=7 but you might find it for less if you search.
Talk to your LBS... they can put this stuff in their shops without the legal hassles of pepper/mace spray.
To those of you who've read this particular forum from the top, you noticed I took (deservedly) a lot of heat regarding my own furry friend. As an update, I just purchased Premier's Remote collar (had the anti barker) to finally put an end to Quid's obsession with bike tires. Now, off to find a pack of cyclists to ride circles round my boy... a little immersion training is coming to a forum near you.
spazzdog
09-22-2004, 01:37 PM
Admin... are you listening? Maybe an add to the TE shop :)
If any of you work in shops, the flyer the salesrep sent me has very reasonable wholesale bulk pricing.
If you're interested, email me off list for the contact info for the rep.
P.S. It says it's effective on all kinds of critters... except bears. It doesn't work on bears. Does anything work on bears?
snapdragen
09-22-2004, 04:22 PM
Originally posted by spazzdog
P.S. It says it's effective on all kinds of critters... except bears. It doesn't work on bears. Does anything work on bears?
Pedal real, real fast! :p
spazzdog
09-22-2004, 04:32 PM
Oh yeah! Way fast...
Dummy me, I forgot to say what the substance is in the sprayer. I forgot that this wasn't the forum where deterrents came up.
It sprays citronella.
annie
09-22-2004, 06:36 PM
Spazz,
This citronella spray ------ have you tried it yet? On a dog somewhere out on the road that decides it want a piece of you? Or do you know anyone who has? Any ad for a product is going to make claims of the product's effectiveness. Not trying to be negative here! However I DO occasionally work in a bike shop and before suggesting to the owner that he carry any product, I'd like to hear some personal experiences by people who've used the product. It'd be great it is worked! Safe but effective. I like that.:)
Thanks!
annie
spazzdog
09-22-2004, 06:48 PM
I know how it works on my dog... he stops the behavior. And he gets pretty wound up... the more excited he gets the less he hears "No". All I have to do now is say "Collar" when he starts barking out of the blue. It doesn't cause pain, therefore no escalation of aggression, but the dogs hate the smell.
The product flyer that the rep sent me has the necessary disclaimer - "may not stop ALL animals" but no deterrent stops them all. This one is humane and it can't hurt you if you get blowback.
My pet service uses it as well, both the automatic anti-bark collar like me and the remote control off lead training collar (which I just bought). And they've used those aids on many dogs, many breeds.
That's my personal experience.
The things I like about it are the humane nature, the safety to the user and the lack of legal restrictions to purchase/own.
CorsairMac
09-29-2004, 01:22 PM
sorry but I couldn't resist my take on all this. First - caps off to all of you - what a positive, Nice way to offer all comments regarding Spazzs dog. But I did try the pepper spray and all I can say is - when I needed it the most - re: 2 big dogs running faster than I could climb up that nasty hill - I reached in my back pocket, pulled the spray out and watched the nozzle go flying thru space leaving me with a canister!! I was so mad then at the dogs, my (soon-to-be-ex) hubby whos idea it was, the pepper spray, and the nasty, long, ugly hill I turned and chewed those dogs out long, loud and very angrily. They both stopped, looked @ each other, looked @ me and went home. They looked so surprised that their "rabbit" had a voice I had to start laughing. Even now when I'm running my dogs, a "no, no, Go Home" usually works. If it doesn't - I just start yelling really loud for someone to come get these dogs!
pedalfaster
10-04-2004, 05:22 AM
Hey...a big "congrats!" to Quid.
Looks like you can teach an old dog new tricks ;)
We are working on "no sheddding on the couch" at our house. :p
CorsairMac
10-04-2004, 06:41 AM
WOOHOO Spazz and Quid - keep up the good work! - Give Quid extra cookies from me tonight!
snapdragen
10-04-2004, 05:52 PM
At the risk of sounding like Dr Phil - How's that workin' for you? :D
Originally posted by pedalfaster
We are working on "no sheddding on the couch" at our house. :p
pedalfaster
10-05-2004, 06:23 AM
Originally posted by snapdragen
At the risk of sounding like Dr Phil - How's that workin' for you? :D
One word: slipcovers!
Thanks for my morning laugh :D
spazzdog
10-12-2004, 10:07 AM
Thought I'd add a bit of levity to this otherwise very serious (as it should be) topic. Pulled this off of Gibbleguts.com, one of the funnest, if slightly wierd cartoonists I've ever seen.
DOG IN HEAT
A little girl asked her mom, "Mom, may I take the dog for a walk around the block?
Mom replies, "No, because she is in heat."
"What's that mean?" asked the child.
"Go ask your father. I think he's in the garage."
The little girl goes to the garage and says, "Dad, may I take Belle for a walk around the block? I asked Mom, but she said the dog was in heat, and to come to you."
Dad said, "Bring the Belle over here." He took a rag, soaked it with gasoline, and scrubbed the dog's backside with it and said, "Okay, you can go now, but keep Belle on the leash and only go one time around the block."
The little girl left, and returned a few minutes later with no dog on the leash.
Surprised, Dad asked, "Where's Belle?"
The little girl said, "She ran out of gas about halfway down the block, so another dog is pushing her home."
CorsairMac
10-12-2004, 12:23 PM
ROFLMAO....Thanks for the little bit of humour in the middle of my day!
spazzdog
10-29-2004, 04:48 PM
I know, I know... this is the dog thread. But we've discussed almost every critter that moves so I thought I'd share this here.
It's true... it happened to me today.
WE have an "outside kitty" named Merlin. He was left behind by his family 2 yrs ago when they moved and my partner took him in. He lives on our enclosed front porch... comes in for meals twice a day... comes in to sleep in the kitty igloo I put out there.
Today when my pet service dropped my dog off from playgroup, she came to the door and sadly told me that there was a dead kitty down the block that she thought was Merlin. I told my roomie, and got my gloves and a big hefty bag and started the walk down the street... my dog walker came too because she really loves Merlin.
I got there and yes it was him... same beautiful coat, big emerald green eyes... I picked him up to examine him and make sure he was gone. No doubt. We wrapped him in the bag and I took him home.
I decided to bury him out in the front side yard under his favorite tree. I started digging. I ran into a HUGE rock that took 2 hours to dig out. I rigged a harness and lifted said rock (at least 90-100 lbs) out of the hole. I put Merlin wrapped in his plastic into a box and buried him, rolling the big rock back onto the top of his resting place.
We called all our friends... everyone loved Merlin. Everyone cried.
At about 6 pm my partners brother (he lives with us) had to go out on a detail and he opened the front door. He hollered "Whoa!! Gena come here!" I went to the door and he points and says "look who just walked in." I look and it's Merlin... talking up a storm and asking for dinner.
I am totally confused! I just spent 3 hrs total burying Merlin.
Apparently not. Merlin is happily snoozing out on our porch as I type this. I apparently have buried someone elses dead cat.
I have cried then laughed and now am stuck in confusion. Who's cat did I bury???
syklnsoph
10-29-2004, 08:01 PM
i think i would be proud that at least you gave the kitty a decent burial. wait for a couple of days to see if lost posters come up....check the lost & found ads, maybe even post one yourself, of course not illuding to the burial.....you did your best. more than some would do. and Bernie, my black-eyed, polydactyl appurrrrroved of it too. Archie has to nap on it tho...
soph
spazzdog
10-30-2004, 05:35 AM
Yes, we will be watching for signs... what a day.
We now have the Tomb of the Unknown Kitty in our side yard.
My neighbor (quite the gardner) is gonna plant some nice flowers around it for me.
slinkedog
10-30-2004, 01:39 PM
Well, I'm sorry for the unknown kitty, but I'm so happy for you that Merlin is alive and well. He sure sounds beautiful!!!
Maine-iac
10-31-2004, 10:15 AM
Bless all the unknown kitties..
spazzdog
10-31-2004, 01:07 PM
My partner tells me there's a whole bunch of feral cats in the area... apparently up the road a piece there are a few feeding stations for them (like in Key West). Who knew!
The unknown kitty was probably Merlins doppelganger... or a distant relative. Better he be buried here than "disposed off" by animal control.
Merlin is now wearing a very bright red collar... for as long as he'll keep it on. So far, so good. He hates collars, but I think I may have appealed to his sense of style. He looks so handsom in red.
Scotslad
05-21-2006, 08:56 AM
Good thread to keep reviving. I'm new to these encounters and in my last 5 or 6 rides have encounter some of the situations describe already. The worse was yesterday when about 5-6 dogs all came onto the road from a house and got in front of us to slow us down... fortunately I was with someone who had some experience with these dogs although he said that last time they were friendly... but this time around they seem more aggressive. In this one ride of 50 miles we encounter dogs about 4 separate occasions.... so now I'm looking for solutions as I want to enjoy riding and can't keep avoiding every street I think there might be a dog.
I see the various types of sprays and Spazzdog’s suggestion (with link) looked good, anybody have some success stories with it. I also read of using snap poppers...
"I carry "Snap Poppers" they are paper twists that one throws on the ground to make a popping noise like a cap pistol. They have always worked for us. We buy them around the Fourth of July when fireworks are sold."
I also read of some sort of sonic gun, which sounds promising to me as it’s not going to seriously hurt you or the dog but does the trick of stopping them? Any body using something like this?
Dogmama
05-21-2006, 03:35 PM
If you mean stun gun - I would not recommend it. You need to get too close to the dog.
Dogs have a chase instinct. Aggressive dogs are chasing in an aroused state. Anything that causes pain (e.g., pepper spray) CAN make things worse because their first instinct is to fight back.
The second best thing is a VERY loud and authoritative NO!!! yelled in a low voice. If I see that the dog is fixated on my feet - and it's a herding variety of dog (e.g., border collie) I'll stop pedaling because they are likely wanting to nip at my feet (think of cattle.)
The first best thing is to sprint like the crazy, if you think you can outrun the dog.
If the dogs get in front of your bike, you're going to have to dismount. Put your bike between you & the dog(s) and continue to yell "NO" and hope that somebody shows up to corral their little darlings. Just stopping will often take the fun out of it.
Shorter nosed breeds can't run far in the heat. Big dogs can sprint like crazy. Watch their tails - if the tail is up - it's a game. If the tail, ears & head are down they're open for business.
Scotslad
05-21-2006, 04:15 PM
Thanks for the reply dogma, and you added some more usefill tips which I didn't think of, like the tail being up. I have also heard that if a dog is barking is usually a call for "hey look over here" or they want help... while if they growl then they are prepared to attack.
With the sonic I mean more of a sound device that sends a high pitch sound that would keep the dogs at a safe distance e.g. found this link today
http://www.kiienterprises.com/dazer/
This, if it worked, would be safer than sprays that can backfire and doesn't harm the dog.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.2 Copyright © 2024 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.