Estimates show over 70 million dogs live in North American households. Every year, 4.5 million people, most of them children, are bitten; the majority of these incidents are preventable. National Dog Bite Prevention Week starts May 15 and focuses on educating people about preventing dog bites.
– How do you avoid getting bitten? Be considerate and respect the dog’s space. Be wary around strange dogs and never approach an unfamiliar dog, especially one tied or confined behind a fence or in a car. Don’t disturb a dog while she’s sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy or caring for puppies. Always assume that a dog who doesn’t know you may see you as an intruder or a threat.
– Pay attention to the dog’s body language. Is the body tensed, tail stiff, head and/or ears pulled back? Put some space between you and the dog, but don’t turn your back on her and run away; her natural instinct will be to chase you.
– If you think a dog may attack, remain quiet, calm and motionless. Avoid eye contact with the dog. Once the dog loses interest, slowly back away until she is out of sight.
– If you are bitten, immediately wash the wound with soap and warm water. Contact your doctor for additional care and advice and report the bite to your local animal care and control agency, giving them as much information as you can about the dog including where she lives, if you know. If the dog is a stray, provide a description of the dog, if you’ve seen her before and which direction she went.
There are many things you can do to avoid dog bites, but information and education are the best answer to this public concern.
