We've all been there: you're out for a walk, and you see someone approaching with their dog. Do you cross the street? Or do you keep walking, hoping for a friendly encounter? For service dog handlers, these everyday scenarios can be fraught with anxiety. While most dog owners are respectful, there's always the risk of encountering an aggressive or untrained animal. This article will provide practical tips on how to protect your service dog during an altercation and ensure your safety. During the Attack: Stay Calm: This might be the hardest part, but staying calm will help you make the best decisions for your dog and yourself. Do Not Engage: Yelling or trying to physically intervene can escalate the situation. It's best to focus on de-escalating and protecting your dog. Create a Barrier: Use your body, leash, purse, or any available object to create a physical barrier between your dog and the attacking dog. Distract the Other Dog (if safe): If possible, try to distract the attacking dog with a loud noise or object, such as clapping your hands or yelling "No!" Call for Help: Shout for help from bystanders or anyone nearby. Once the Attack is Over: Assess the Situation: Check your dog for injuries as quickly and calmly as possible. Look for bleeding, bites, or signs of shock. Move to a Safe Location: If your dog is injured, move to a safe location where you can assess their condition further. Contact Emergency Personnel: Depending on the severity of the injuries, you may need to call animal control or seek veterinary help immediately. Reporting the Attack: File a Police Report: Even if your dog seems okay, filing a police report will document the incident. Contact Animal Control: If the attacking dog's owner is unknown, animal control can help identify them and enforce leash laws. Contact Your Service Dog Trainer: Your trainer can offer support and guidance as you navigate this stressful situation. They may also be able to help you with any necessary retraining after the attack. Additional Tips: While not required, carry a Service Dog ID Card: Having this readily available can help educate bystanders on your dog's legal status. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Try to avoid situations where your dog might encounter off-leash dogs or overly aggressive animals. Practice De-escalation Techniques: Train your dog to remain calm in potentially stressful situations, like encountering another dog. Resources: The United States Service Dog