Unknown dogs can be a threat to others

OTTO BULS | Olympia • Published January 12, 2013 Modified January 11, 2013

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Attention dog owners: Please do not assume the public knows your dog’s personality as you do. When a significant-size dog charges me with teeth bared, growling and barking viciously with fur on the entire back raised straight up, I feel very threatened.

Are you shocked at me? Am I supposed to know that “Bowser wouldn’t hurt a fly,” or “It’s just your umbrella that’s upsetting him/her.”

Hey, I’ve got news for you: 1) No, I don’t know your dog. And I’m not sure you do either.

2) I don’t care what’s upsetting your dog. I’m simply walking the trail and trying to enjoy Mother Nature.

3) I will do whatever it takes to protect myself.

4) If you think I’m “overreacting,” why don’t you put yourself in my shoes for a moment? I’ve never met your dog.

5) Your dog is supposed to be on a leash, by law.

This has occurred more than once in Olympia’s parks and trails and most recently at Mission Creek Park on Dec. 26, 2012.

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