Thanks for the concerns, but I am not going to let the fear of meeting a bear stop me from walking. I have been walking along the road, and even in the bush for almost 11 years with my dogs. I have never met a coyote, wolf, cougar or bear during my walks but I know they are around (I have found scat and prints, and heard the howls from a distance) I will make sure to be alert, and prepared to defend myself if need be. I am sure my walks in nature are safer than walks in the big city...
I know what you mean. I lived in Alaska for five years and if I let fear of animals come into my hear, Heck--I would have never gone anywhere. I always lived "rural" except for a few weeks in Fairbanks and so saw many beasts come through my yard. I think the word is "respect". One can go anywhere, just have a bit of respect for the possibilities. I had a husky then and so had to walk her frequently. I am like you--I found it so interesting to note the various tracks that I would encounter on the walks. I'll bet that you live in a really nice place.
