First of all, one should never pet an animal if the animal does not know you. The dog clearly was not wagging its tail, which is a sign that it's not in the mood for play.
Second, a pet is a reflection of its owner. Sometimes, animals can exhibit behavior that is reflective of its master. Given the grave news that is sweeping America right now, I would probably bite the finger of some pompous, @sshole democrat if he tried to poke me right now.
Hopefully Barney won't get rabies from that guy.
Amen. Watching the video, Barney's head was down, and he clearly didn't want anything to do with the reporter. How stupid do you have to be to swoop down on a dog that is clearly avoiding interaction with you.
Just goes to show you how oblivious the press is to reality when it is so plainly obvious to everyone else.
Missy