GEORGE TOWN: If you encounter a dog on the loose, staying still like a tree, avoiding eye contact, and not displaying threatening behaviour can help prevent an unwanted incident.
Dog trainer Carlos Huarates, 62, who has over 25 years of experience, advises that these steps can minimise the risk of escalating an encounter with a dog.
“Avoid making eye contact to ensure the dog does not perceive you as a threat. It is also crucial not to touch unfamiliar dogs and to respect their space,” he said.
“Do not touch a dog you do not know, as it might misinterpret your intentions. Avoid screaming, as this can startle the dog. If it approaches you, remain still and allow it to sniff you. In most cases, it will move away.”
Huarates was commenting on an incident in Kedah on Tuesday in which five people were bitten by two Rottweilers.
Kedah Veterinary Services Department director Dr Shaharul Amar Talib confirmed both dogs were euthanised the next day.
Huarates also cautioned that running away from a dog could trigger its instinct to chase.
“The dog may wonder why this person is running and pursue them. This could lead to the dog perceiving them as prey, which is dangerous,” he said.
“Throwing objects at a stray dog might scare it away, but not all dogs will react in the same way. Some might feel provoked and respond aggressively.”
He said that these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of harm when unexpectedly encountering a dog.
“Any dog can bite; it is not about the breed. However, because Rottweilers are large and powerful, they carry a stigma. A dog that is deprived of affection and attention, confined to a cage, or constantly tied up may struggle to understand its surroundings.”
Huarates expressed regret over the euthanasia of the two Rottweilers, suggesting that they could have been re-homed and retrained.
“There are many responsible owners who socialise their dogs from an early stage. Dogs are not inherently aggressive,” he said.
He stressed the importance of responsible pet ownership, regardless of the dog’s breed.
Dog trainer Suria Ganesh, 47, who has been in the business for 20 years, agreed that the Rottweilers could have been rehabilitated, though it would have required time and effort.
“It would not have been too difficult. The dogs may have been confused and perceived the people as intruders,” he said.
“Based on what I have read about the attack, they deserved a second chance.”
Suria also argued that the stigma surrounding Rottweilers is unfair, as any dog has the potential to bite.
“It is the owner’s responsibility, as dogs need proper care. When you spend more time with the dogs, they can be trained and behave differently,” he said.
All victims are currently receiving treatment at government and private hospitals.
They are reported to be in stable condition, with some having undergone surgery due to severe bite wounds.
