Chewie attacked by 2 dogs. Advice on self-defence?

[Kimmy & Chewie]

What a traumatic start to Valentine's day. Chewie was attacked by 2 dogs on our walk this morning :(

Every morning I take him for a walk down our street and there're these 2 dogs which always barks (at anyone who walks by). One's a Jack Russell and the other a Spitz. They bark a lot from behind the fence/gate, but I never ever see anyone come and go from that house in the 2 years I had Chewie. I assumed no one lived there and dog is there to guard the place.

This morning, the (remote controlled) gate opened just as we walked pass. A car was backing out of the driveway. Both dogs came charging at me and Chewie. They looked really aggressive, so immediately carried Chewie off the ground. But both dogs surrounded me, jumping to take a bite at Chewie's dangling paws and tail, so I couldn't really get away. Chewie weigh around 22kg (44lbs) so I couldn't carry him for long and he was slipping out of my arms (butt first to the floor). I kicked the Spitz in the head...he was unfazed and kept charging.  At that time, the Jack Russell bit Chewie's tail, he yelped. So I turned to shout and shoo him away, but then the Spitz came in and bit Chewie's leg. Another 2 more yelps. I was on the verge of tears. So carried him up again. All the while, yelling and kicking at the dogs to go away.

Just in time, someone from the house came out and chased the dog back into the house. 

After a thorough check of Chewie, he's fine. No blood. His tail and legs were damp from the attackers drool. I think his thick fluffy fur protected him

I plan to walk with a stick from now on as this could happen again. But I just want to ask the group if there are other ways to better-handle incident. What to do, say or act in such situation?

 

[Cathy, Fozzie & Shaggy]

Definately report the event to animal control right away even if there are no wounds.  Even if you don't go past the house again someone with or without a dog might and have the same or worse experience you had.  If a file is started, that may put pressure on the owners to be more responsible and put animal control on alert. 

Christine had a good point about Chewie being traumatized.  I would worry that he may begin to fear strange dogs on his walks or in other places.  I'm not sure what to do to prevent that...and suggestions from other DKers?

 

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I am so sorry this happened to you and Chewie.  Be sure to recheck very carefully where he could have been bitten in case a tooth did break the skin.

[Kimmy & Chewie]

Yes, it makes a lot of sense. Thanks Vinny! Though I'm not sure how trained those dogs are, but will definitely bring treat along with me next time. (along with stick, pepper spray and maybe a fog horn..LOL) 

Oh, and to answer your question, Chewie is turning 2 years old next week. He has his adult coat now I think.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I am so sorry to hear this. We have discussed some deterrents in the past, so you may some information. Poor Chewie. I'm glad he was not hurt badly.

[Kimmy & Chewie]

Thanks F. Going to search for deterrents now. Didn't know what to search for before.