Things You Can Do To Keep From Being Bitten By A Dog

Avoiding Dog Bites
From: The Humane Society of The United States


Q: How can I avoid being bitten by a dog?

A: Never approach a strange dog, especially one who's tied or
confined behind a fence or in a car. Don't pet a dog—even your
own—without letting him see and sniff you first. Never turn your
back to a dog and run away. A dog's natural instinct will be to
chase and catch you. Don't disturb a dog while she's sleeping,
eating, chewing on a toy, or caring for puppies. Be cautious
around strange dogs. Always assume that a dog who doesn't know
you may see you as an intruder or a threat.

Q: What should I do if I think a dog may attack?

A: If you are approached by a dog who may attack you, follow
these steps:

Never scream and run.

Remain motionless, hands at your sides, and avoid eye contact
with the dog.

Once the dog loses interest in you, slowly back away until he is
out of sight.

If the dog does attack, "feed" him your jacket, purse, bicycle,
or anything that you can put between yourself and the dog.

If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with
your hands over your ears and remain motionless. Try not to
scream or roll around.


Q: What should I do if I am bitten by a dog?

A: If you are bitten or attacked by a dog, try not to panic.

Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water.
Contact your physician for additional care and advice.
Report the bite to your local animal care and control agency.

Tell the animal control official everything you know about the
dog, including his owner's name and the address where he lives.
If the dog is a stray, tell the animal control official what the
dog looks like, where you saw him, whether you've seen him
before, and in which direction he went.


Q: Can children be taught to avoid being bitten by a dog?

A: Yes, just as we teach our children to practice safety in other
situations, we can teach them to be safe around dogs. The most
important lessons for children to learn are not to chase or tease
dogs they know and to avoid dogs they don't know.


Copyright © 2004 The Humane Society of the United States.
All rights reserved.


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