Don’t Worry, They Won’t Bite

While that is true for the vast majority of dogs, even the cuddliest, fuzziest, sweetest pup can bite if provoked. Unwisely, some owners actually promote aggression in their dog’s symbols of power.

From nips to bites to actual attacks, dog bites are a serious problem. Dog bite victims requiring medical attention in the United States number 500,000 to 1 million annually. Countless more bites go unreported and untreated. On average, about a dozen people die each year from dog bites.

WHAT’S A DOG OWNER TO DO?

• Carefully consider your pet selection. Before and after selection, your veterinarian is the best source for information about behavior and suitability.
• Make sure your pet is socialized as a young puppy, so it feels at easy around people and animals expose your puppy to a varitey of situations a little at a time. And under controlled circumstances.
• Train your dog.
• The basic commands, “sit“, “stay,“ “no“, and “come“ can be incorporated into fun activities, which build a bond of obedience and trust between pets and people.
• Keep your dog healthy
• Have your dog vaccinated against rabies and preventable infectious diseases Parasite control is important to how your dogs feels and behaves.

HOW CAN MY FAMILY AND I AVOID BEING BITTEN?

• Be cautious around strange dogs and treat your own pet with respect. Because children are the most frequent victims of dog bites, parents and caregivers should:
• Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog
• Be on the lookout for potentially dangerous situations.
• Start teaching young children including toddlers to be careful around pets.

OTHER TIPS THAT MAY PREVENT OR STOP A DOG ATTACK:

• Don’t run past a dog. Dogs naturally love to chase and catch things
• Never disturb a dog that’s caring for puppies, sleeping or eating.
• If a dog approaches to sniff you – stay still
• If a dog threatens you, remain calm. Don’t scream. Speak calmly and firmly, avoid eye contact and stay still. Don’t turn and run.
• If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck to protect your face.
• What should I do if my dog bites someone?
• Restrain the dog immediately.
• Check on the victim’s condition. Wash the wounds with soap and water.
• Provide important information to the victim such as most recent rabies vaccinations record
• Report the bit to your insurance company. Comply with local ordinances.
• Consult your veterinarian.

If YOU are the bite victim – treat wounds. If your dog bites you, confine it, call your veterinarian and check your dog’s vaccination records. If someone else’s dog bites you, contact authorities and tell them everything you can about the dog, color, size, and last location. This information may be helpful in locating the dog.