Cat and mouse

Last week, I was taking a shortcut to attend my IPPT (Individual Physical Proficiency Test). This is a service road so I was not trespassing any private properties. With my nose in a book, I started on the path.
Out came a bitch (she-dog) who ran out from the overgrown grasses and stood herself in front of me, barking and snarling. That didn't sound good so I tried to hush her while retreating. I unslung my bag to ready it as a weapon. An answering bark from my 4 o'clock position got me worried. To my 2 o'clock, 2 dogs appeared. I positioned myself such that I faced the two dogs closest to me. The newly arrived male dog took over the task of threatening me. I continued my retreat and when I judged myself out of their territory, I turned and walked. They barked at my back but did not pursue.
That got me late for my test! The shortcut is an all or nothing. If I don't take it, retracing my route and taking the long way would cost 4x as much time. Kind of irritated. I had to take a cab.

For the next RT session, I tempted my fate. I would check the adjoining grass fields before I step onto the road. My book would be kept away to prepare for fight or flight. I was relieved when an Indian worker walked past. I encountered a dog but I was halfway along the road so I was in Man's territory. The dog didn't challenge me.

Today, I did so again. I was apprehensive as I suspected they claim the surrounding lands at night. The grass field was clear, I stepped onto the road. With my eyes on the overgrown grasses to my left, I passed the first farm. A lorry passed me and went into it. A dog started barking, which sort of sounded familiar. Knowing that she's domesticated would help my next attempt...

-3H1U