Dog Bite Prevention: Avoid Becoming Another Statistic

Americans seem to have a love affair with dogs. There are more than 65 million dogs in households in the U.S., according to the APPMA (American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, Inc.). You may have a dog or two in your home, but if you don't, your neighbors, friends, or family members probably do.

While most dogs are great companions, some dogs do bite. The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System -All Injury Program (NEISS-AIP) estimates that 368,245 people were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2001 for nonfatal dog-bite related injuries. Children under 14 years accounted for approximately 42% of those treated. Knowing and following bite prevention strategies will help keep you or your loved ones from becoming another statistic.

If you plan to get a dog, learn what to do to prevent your dog from biting people. But taking care of your own dog is not enough. You must know -- and teach your children -- what to do around other people's dogs. Not every pet owner will be as considerate as you are. In fact, some people even encourage their dogs to be aggressive.
 
Choosing a Dog

• Consult professionals (veterinarians, animal behaviorists, etc.) for a suitable breed for your household
• Keep dogs with a history of aggression from households with children
• Be very careful when bringing home a dog when you have infants or toddlers
• Watch for signs of fear in your children and delay getting a dog if they don't seem ready
• Spend time with a dog before committing to it

Teaching Your Dog

• Train it to know common commands
• Teach submissive behaviors such as rolling over to expose the belly or allowing food to be given up without growling
• Have your dog socialize at a young age with both people and other animals
• Spend time with your dog
• Don't play aggressive games like wrestling or Tug of War
• Spay or neuter the dog to reduce aggressive tendencies
• Keep it healthy with proper shots and any necessary parasite treatment
• Know your dog and recognize when it is sick or feeling stressed
• Seek professional advice if your dog has behavioral problems
• Do not leave infants or toddlers alone with any dog
• Follow community requirements, such as using a leash, licensing, and vaccination

How to Avoid Getting Bitten by a Dog

• Don't approach an unfamiliar dog
• Ask owners first before petting a dog
• Allow a dog to see and sniff you before petting it
• Avoid direct eye contact
• Remain still if approached by an unknown dog
• Do not run or scream
• Roll into a ball and lie still if knocked down by a dog
• Kids should not play with other dogs without adult supervision
• Do not disturb dogs that are sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies
• Report stray dogs or those with odd behaviors
• Report any bites to local authorities

Dogs really can be your best friends. Just remember that they are animals, not furry people, and that it's up to you to prevent biting, either from your dogs or from other people's dogs.