When An Animal Lashes Out

I really like animals, such as dogs. My experiences with them include beung bit and scratched and otherwise hurt by them several times, but one thing I have learned is that when a dog lashes out it's usually because they're afraid of something. 

I like people. I have been hurt by them many times before, but one thing I have learned is that when someone lashes out it's usually because they're afraid of something.

The long story short:

When an animal lashes out it's usually because they're afraid of something; humans included.