The Biggest Danger of Going For a Walk in the Magic Valley

With spring fast approaching, many are looking forward to getting outside once again regularly. This can be fishing, kayaking, doing yard work, or going for a walk or a run outside. Idaho is one of the best places to be outdoors in the entire country and that is why many prefer to take advantage of the nice weather and to get out when the opportunity arises. When it comes to going for a walk or a run in the Magic Valley though, there is a danger that awaits, that many need to be aware of and prepared for. 

The Danger of Walking or Running in the Magic Valley

Anytime someone goes for a walk or a run in Idaho, there are always dangers. On trails there are wild animals to watch out for, there are rocks you could slip on, and there are plenty of places with no cell service if you need help. If you go for a walk or run around town, there is the fear of someone kidnapping you at night, there is traffic and plenty of bad drivers to be aware of, and there is the biggest danger of all. Many in the Magic Valley have dogs, but sadly, not all yards are fenced in properly and not all of these dogs are trained or friendly. Many get out throughout the year, and when one sees a walker or a runner, nothing will stop them from approaching them, which can put the pedestrian in a dangerous situation. 

Dogs on the Loose in the Magic Valley

When walking or running in the Magic Valley, if a dog runs up to you, it doesn't always mean things will end badly. Some dogs want to bark but have no intention of getting close to you, while others may want to play and approach you in a friendly manner. While these are the ideal outcomes, the worst-case scenario is when a dog approaches and keeps coming, but doesn't appear to be pleasant. This can lead to being attacked by a dog or having to fight one off. The best thing to do in these scenarios is to always stop running or walking briefly to let the animal know you mean no harm, and then to slowly get further and further from the dog. Running as fast as you can away from the animal is not a good idea, as they may think you are playing, or want to chase you. 

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Talk to the dog calmly if you find yourself in this situation and look to get away from the animal safely and calmly. Sadly, this happens far too often as stray dogs run loose in many of the Magic Valley towns, or dogs get out of the yard and wander neighborhoods and town streets. Make sure to carry a stick or some sort of item with you to fight them off in case you ever need it, but hopefully, it isn't a concern you have to deal with on whichever route you take to go for a walk or run in the Magic Valley.