In the last month I have had 3 dogs come running toward the dog I am walking. Once the gate was left open and two dogs came out...once was a dog sitting on a front porch unleashed and once was an owner walking her two dogs off leash and when I suggested a leash, her response was “my dog needs the exercise”. Can I legally carry mace for protection against these type of dogs?
,w a m i t
https://www.pepper-spray-store.com/co...
The best option is to contact your local police department and ask what weapons you can legally carry, or what weapons you need a permit for. I advise you to do it ASAP before something happens. My dog and I were attacked by an off leash pitbull and his owner. I didn't carry any weapons/protection and was unable to fight a pitbull and a 6 foot 6 tall criminal. My dog suffered bite injuries in his face and head. I also did a research what is legal to carry in my state/city and made sure I am protected if there was anything to happen again.
The are many alternatives to mace on the market that work well in deterring lose dogs, pepper, citronella to name a few and you can find them easily on Amazon. Also, many walkers I know prefer to carry a small air horn. Yup its scary when out you are approached by lose dogs so be prepared.
From what I understand, it is legal for self-defense purposes only with restrictions. So I doubt keeping other dogs away from yours would be considered valid. Call your local police district office through 3-1-1 and ask. Also, because being off leash is illegal, the police may keep an eye out for that, as happened in Lincoln Park due to a jogger's complaint, but they do have more serious crimes to look out for these days.
Walt's suggestions about other products/methods is worth investigating. I believe pepper spray falls into the same category (very restricted) as mace though.