I have pepper spray strapped on my bike right where I can reach it quickly. It's for aggressive dogs OR people. (it has a flip top that makes it fairly impossible to aim it at yourself by the way) I do take it with me if I go into a store so kids can't get near it. Sure, somebody or some dog might be able to jump me faster than I could get it going, but it does give me a small sense of security if I see the dog coming or if someone starts harassing or following me. I also try to always keep some buffer/safety space around me when I ride. And of course I tell my DH what route I plan to ride.