What You Need to Know About the Use of Canine Pepper Sprays
You’ve heard of canine pepper sprays. But how effective are they really at deterring attack from an aggressive dog?
Sometimes, the one thing that stands between you and a very angry dog is a can of pepper spray. Dogs are generally docile creatures, easy to tame and train. But there are certain circumstances when dogs can be dangerous, particularly if they are aggressive or feral. They can also be a threat if they are trained to attack and you somehow strayed into their territory. To a dog, it’s simply trying to defend itself from what it considers a threat; to you, it’s a reason to be worried. This is why you might want to consider using canine pepper spray to protect yourself and keep the dog from attacking.
what’s in a spray?
Canine pepper spray contains the same formulation used in regular pepper sprays, only stronger. The common active ingredient is caled Oleoresin capsicum, a substance that’s found in certain species of pepper.
Canine pepper sprays rely on the ability of this substance to produce an adverse reaction both in humans and dogs. The substance is incredibly irritating, causing immediate reaction on the mucus membranes found in the nose, eyes, mouth and throat of the dog. When sprayed directly, the substance goes to work, causing the dog to sneeze, close its eyes involuntarily and gag.
The effect, while immediate, is temporary. It can distract even a very aggressive dog for several minutes, giving you sufficient time to run away.
What to look for when buying canine pepper spray
The very first thing to consider when purchasing canine pepper spray is formulation. Be careful with what the spray contains. Look for the ingredient Oleoresin capsicum on the bottle or canister and check for other chemicals that may be included. Remember that your intention is to stop, prevent or discourage an attacking animal from physically harming you, not to cause permanent or lethal harm.
If the label shows an ingredient or a different formulation, ask the retailer or shop owner for more clarifications. Better yet, try to research regarding the harmful substances to avoid when buying canine pepper spray to ensure that you do not cause unnecessary harm.
Are there any harmful side effects on dogs?
The most direct result that canine pepper spray can produce on dogs are the symptoms mentioned above. Other than that, these sprays are not known to cause permanent damage on dogs, although effects with prolonged exposure have not been studied. Although the effects of canine pepper spray on dogs tend to produce negative reactions, it is actually considered a non-lethal — and therefore humane — way of controlling a wild, aggressive animal. It is a far better alternative to, say, using physical force.
Tags: buying canine pepper, canine pepper spray, pepper spray, self defense weapon