Laurie Raymond
Sep 4, 2018 · 1 min read

There are places where it is appropriate to let a dog off leash, yet are not without risk. That is when your judgment comes in, and it is fair to let your dog run some risks for other gains, just as you do yourself, of permit your child. However, when you are out in public with an aggressive dog, a leash is not sufficient for safety. An aggressive dog should be muzzled. Because you cannot control all circumstances, you have to take precautions against the likelihood that your dog would/could hurt someone if, for instance, someone or something knocked you over or off your feet and you dropped the leash; you faint or have a medical emergency and a stranger will have to a) help you and/or b) take charge of your dog; another leashed, aggressive dog challenges yours, he lunges, and your leash breaks. You get the picture. And there are muzzles that are safe and comfortable for the dog when fitted properly and the dog is properly accustomed to wearing it, that allow panting and drinking water or taking treats, that don’t interfere with his vision or ability to sniff. For all the reasons you cited why dogs should be leashed, yours should also be muzzled.

    Laurie Raymond

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