Originally Posted by
mattotoole
I just finished posting our article about cyclists using Virginia's dangerous dog law:
http://www.vabike.org/dangerous-dogs-campaign/http://www.vabike.org/dangerous-dogs-campaign/
Under Virginia law, any dog that causes injury can be declared a dangerous dog, whether from a bite, or from a crash caused by the dog. Dog-induced crashes frequently result in
serious injuries.
We've provided some hang tags for you to download and print, take with you on rides, and leave at homes where there are cyclist-chasing dogs. These are to advise the dog owner of the law, and the seriousness of having their dog declared a dangerous dog.
There's also an article explaining the law and how to use it, which you can link to, or download and print.
Please feel free to use this material on your own websites, etc.
I think, ANY dangerous-dog law is a waste. Yes the dogs may behave badly but, their behavior is a product of their environment. Prosecute the owners, don't euthanize the dogs.
Dogs bark at me all the time. If it is a case of, they are being walked by their owners, instead of taking my response out on the owner, I stop and, show the dog that, they don't need to be afraid of me.
Dog bites in general and the severity of the bite notwithstanding, the dog needs compassion
from the cyclist, not anger.
Direct your response at the owner, not the dog.