Stray dogs can have bad experiences and carry parasites. If in doubt, vacationers in Southern and Eastern Europe should keep their distance, advises the animal welfare organization Four Paws.
Although many animals are very friendly and open to people, there are also suspicious animals. Frightened dogs may defend themselves, their puppies, territory, or food.
If you’re afraid of dogs, you don’t usually have to worry. As long as there is distance and the animals do not get into trouble, they behave in a friendly manner. However, anyone who runs away in panic, screams or waves their arms around sends misleading signals. “Keep calm and withdraw slowly from the situation,” advises Four Paws.
Keeping your distance also makes sense for another reason: stray animals often suffer from fleas, ticks, other parasites or even rabies. According to Vier Pfoten, anyone who wants to help the animals should support a local animal protection organization.