I hate it when what I really want to say doesn't come out of my mouth at the time I need it to. But, I agree, the advice about the leash would have fallen on deaf ears anyway.

I'm not a dog training expert, but IMHO, I think those retractable leashes should have never been invented. If trained properly, your dog should heel next to your left leg at all times unless instructed otherwise.

Even when we camp, the ground rules state "leads/tie outs, no longer than 6 feet". People don't follows it, but they have it for a reason. A safe distance containment.

I'm sorry this happened to you. I've had similiar things. Bleah!