Grandson and I went for a walk across the fields, hoping to catch a glimpse of the new calf born across the road. We didn’t see the calf but we did meet a friend out walking her two rescue dogs. The larger, Jack, is deaf and responds to sign language – bless him.

Grandson was anxious as Jack approached. I called out to explain his worry and Jack was put on the lead. We then talked about the incident, soon after the refugees moved in, when daughter, grandson and niece ran for their lives when chased by a large dog over Bolnhurst way. Jack’s owner is an animal lover and has a great deal of contact with the Wood Green Animal shelter. She explained to grandson that the best (and counterintuitive) way to deal with a dog that is chasing you is to make yourself very still and boring. She demonstrated

Stand still, look skyward and cross your arms over your chest. Grandson suggested that I could make myself boring by talking about birds! Cheeky monkey. I hope I never have to face an aggressive dog and if I did would I be able to overcome my instinct to run (or hobble) like crazy?