We have all seen the news stories about adults and children being attacked by dogs. In the United States, 500,000 to 800,000 people each year are bitten by dogs and seek medical attention. Many more attacks and bites go unreported. Many times these attacks result in serious injury or death. About 12 people every year die from dog attacks. There are some strategies that a person can use to avoid an attack or to make the attack less harmful.
The following are some hints and tips in the event that you are confronted by an angry dog…
Be alert….Always be aware of your surroundings. When taking a walk, keep your head up and your eyes scanning around you.
Do not approach dogs that you do not know…Make sure that your children know this, too. Kids have a way of running up to dogs – this can be very dangerous.
Be careful of mother dogs….If a dog is caring for pups, you should never disturb that dog unless the owner is present and gives permission. Any animal protecting its young can bite or attack.
Do not disturb sleeping dogs or dogs that are eating their food. Instinct may kick in and you may receive a bite.
If a dog comes slowly up to you, allow it to sniff you and stay calm. Most of the time the dog will go away after it determines that you are not a threat. However, if the dog is approaching you at a run and is obviously hostile, you should take a defensive posture.
If the dog attacks and knocks you to the ground, roll up in a ball and cover your head and neck with your arms. Always protect your face and your throat.
If a hostile dog approaches you growling and snarling, stay calm. Don’t scream – talk slowly and quietly to the dog. Do not make eye contact and don’t turn around and run away. Stay still or slowly and quietly back away.
Do not leave a small child or baby alone with a dog. This goes even for dogs that you own or know well. Children and babies should never be unsupervised around a dog or other animal.
Dogs are wonderful creatures. If you are careful and keep your wits about you, you can usually escape a bad dog encounter without harm.
Photo by Vera Kratochvil
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