Whether you live in a bustling urban environment, or you’re surrounded by acres of trees and quiet countryside, you might unexpectedly encounter wildlife while getting a little exercise with your dog. As cities expand and suburban sprawl stretches onto undeveloped land, people across the US have reported an increase in sightings of coyotes, mountain lions, and even bears.

Some days, making sure you get out the door with poop bags in-hand can be tough enough. But being prepared for more than just number two might save you stress and trauma down the road. Here are a few tips that may help you avoid a dangerous interaction with wildlife while walking your dog.

Keep your dog on a six-foot leash

It’s always a good idea to keep your dog leashed, even when it might feel safe to let them roam. Never remove your dog’s leash within city limits, unless in a dog park that explicitly states there is no leash requirement. Doing so can result in fines, or worse, an injured or lost pet.

If you’re someone who enjoys off-leash exercise with your dog, practice your dog’s recall skills until they’re practically perfect. This means that whether your dog is within your eyesight or not, calling their name or using a consistent recall word ensures they run back to you despite distraction.

Stay on trail (especially in wooded areas)

In going off trail, you may be more likely to startle an animal that’s hiding or protecting its den. You may also come upon a shade-loving creature, like a snake. Porcupines are native to mix-forest habitats and when startled, their defense mechanism – quills – can be both painful and cause serious medical issues. By staying on trail, you reduce the likelihood of a surprise encounter.

And if trails just aren’t your thing, or you find yourself face-to-face with an unexpected alley friend…

Be big and loud

Most encounters with wildlife are safe and short-lived as they typically make a quick exit upon spotting people or their pets. If a wild animal approaches or follows you, attempt to scare them away by using your voice and body. Remember, a wild animal may be just as fearful of you as you are of it. And the more intimidating you can be, the more likely it will run away. This is true for animals as small as raccoons or possums, and those as big as bears or wildcats.

If you’re somewhere bears or wildcats might live, shout or sing loudly as you walk to alert them to your presence. You can even wear bells or place bells on your dog. If you’re confronted by one of these large wild animals, flail your arms, stomp your feet, shout loudly, and become as intimidating as you can be. As you do this, continue to face the animal and slowly back away.

And this might surprise you, but don’t run. If possible, pick up your dog so they don’t run either. Running can actually trigger some animals’ natural instincts to treat you as prey.

Report sick or aggressive animals

An animal that approaches you or attempts an attack may be sick or in need of help. If you see an animal that may be suffering from a disease like rabies, mange, or distemper, call animal control right away and make your neighbors aware.

Other ways to keep your pets safe

Wild animals will often find their way into people’s yards in search of a food source. Keeping lids secure on trash cans and safeguarding your compost bin is key to keeping unwanted creatures off your property.

If you don’t have a fence, you should monitor your pets while they’re outside (especially smaller, more vulnerable pets). And finally, dogs and cats should always be up-to-date on vaccinations. Rabies is one of the most serious threats that wild animals pose to pets, and sadly, once symptoms appear, it is 100% fatal.

You may not be able to anticipate what fauna you’ll meet when you walk out the door. However, armed with the tips above you’ll be more prepared to keep yourself and your pet safe. Now, just don’t forget those poop bags!