Aggressive dogs are loose on the Florida Trail

Aggressive dogs have been reported on the loose along various trails in Florida, potentially endangering other trail users and wildlife. These trails, often touted for their natural beauty and tranquility, have recently seen an unpleasant disruption in the form of unleashed dogs exhibiting aggressive behavior. Instances have involved dogs aggressively confronting walkers, runners, and other pet owners, creating tense situations that mar the experience for everyone involved. In one recent case, a ECT hiker was almost bitten by 3 dogs while hiking in the Suwannee river area. Another issue at the King Ranch Road area around Milton, where the owner commonly leave his gate open and they have two aggressive dogs. These incidents not only provoke fear in trail users but also the urgency of responsible pet handling in public spaces.

Florida regulations, in many public spaces, mandate that dogs be kept on a leash to prevent just such emergencies. Yet, many trail goers have noted a general disregard for these rules, leading to the rise of aggressive episodes. This non-compliance poses several issues: it endangers the safety of individuals using the trails, risks the health and safety of the agitated dog itself, and disrupts the natural wildlife, who may also flee or retaliate in response to the dogs presence. The sudden appearance of an unrestrained, aggressive dog can send birds and smaller animals fleeing, impacting their habitats and behaviors.

As a result, trail users are advised to remain vigilant, carry deterrents like pepper spray for dogs or bear spray, and report any aggressive dogs they encounter to ensure that the trails remain safe. I a aggressive dog approaches, pepper spray should be first choice. So I keep my spray hoister zip tied to the front of my backpack shoulder strap. 

A dog will bit the first thing that it comes in contact with, so use your hiking sticks in front of you to protect your legs as you are backing up and trying to get to safety. Also running will trigger a dog's predatory reaction, so go at normal pace. Also try shouting out firm commands without (stop, No) yelling, making sure that you are keeping an eye on the dog without making direct eye connect and never turn your back to them, because that will give them courage to get closer.