Tour de Lab Bike Marathon Ignites Local Dog Lovers and Puns

Thursday, September 03, 2015

Jack Rushall, GoLocalPDX Contributor

Tour de Lab.

This one goes out to all those looking for something authentically Portland (writers of Portlandia, here's looking at you). The Tour de Lab bike marathon on September 6th offers you two options: a 19-mile flat biking route or a hilly 41-mile trail for those looking to exercise those muscles in their legs. Though the exercise might not ultimately do much for your gut: the bike tour is also a pub crawl with the 19-mile ride stopping at 3 bars and the 41-mile ride stopping at 4, respectively.

And don’t forget the goodies! The event is hosted by Labrador Brewing Company and offers free craft beer (pint glass included) as well as an all you can eat hot “dog” bar at the finish line.

And don’t forget: the whole thing is for charity! In support of the DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital, the Tour de Lab is also a costume party: at each stop, you can add on an additional piece of doggy attire (e.g. an ear or whiskers)! You can also bring a stuffed dog to display in a bike basket or your child can hold on to it.

Don’t let your weekend go to the dogs. Flex your wheels and register for the event here.

Related Slideshow: Slideshow: 5 Tips For Surviving Dog Attacks

Pit bull breeds accounted for 78 percent of fatal dog attacks last year. GoLocalPDX outlines five things to know about surviving pit bull attacks recommended by Multnomah County Animal Control.

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1) Do Not Run

Stay as quiet and motionless as you can, "like a tree." Quick gestures or running will only bring out the dog’s prey or chase instinct. If you can, slowly back away while turning your head and eyes away from the dog. Also, avoid screaming.

Photo credit: maplegirlie on Flickr

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2) Protect Yourself

Attempt to place anything you have, such as a jacket or backpack, between yourself and the attacking dog. Keep your arms and hands near your body, making it harder for the animal to reach out and bite you. Also, turn your hands into fists to protect your fingers. If you can, curl up in the fetal position.

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3) Choke The Dog

If a dog cannot breathe or is choking, it will probably stop biting you. If a dog is attacking you, try to ram either an object or your hand down its throat as far as you can to make it gag. Also, try to put pressure against the animal’s throat and windpipe.

Photo credit: smerikal via Compfight cc

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4) Do Not Use Force

Although it seems logical, do not try to hit the dog. With dogs like pit bulls, bred to attack, hitting it will only anger it and make it more vicious.

Photo credit: maplegirlie on Flickr

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5) Report The Incident

Even if you receive no serious injuries, it is best to let the authorities know about a dangerous or menacing dog. It may only injure someone worse in the future. Contact animal control services, such as Multnomah County Animal Control.

Photo credit: MLazarevski via Compfight cc;