Here's why:
* They are wild animals: Dugongs are large, powerful marine mammals that are not domesticated. They can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous if approached or touched.
* Protected species: Dugongs are endangered and protected by law in many countries. Interacting with them can be illegal and harmful to their survival.
* Stressful for the dugong: Any interaction with humans can cause stress and disruption to their natural behavior.
* Disease transmission: Humans can transmit diseases to dugongs, which can be fatal to them.
Instead of trying to pet a dugong, observe them from a safe distance and appreciate them in their natural habitat.