Almost 5 million
Americans suffer dog bite
injuries every year. Sadly, 60 percent or 3 million of the dog bite victims are
children. Those under the age of 10 are bitten most severely. The most recent
USA survey of dog bites conducted by CDC researchers concluded that in 2001,
2002 and 2003 there were 4.5 million American dog bite victims per year (1.5% of the entire population). The
number of dog bites cases is alarming. Knowing some safety tips can definitely
help you avoid being a part of this statistic.
Following are
some safety tips to prevent dog bites:
·
Never tease or approach a
strange dog. If the dog doesn’t recognize you, they may attack you.
·
Before petting a dog, always
follow the rule of allowing the dog to sniff the back of your hand so that he
will recognize you.
·
Even if you are uncomfortable
or scared of the dog, never run away from them. Their instincts will response to
chase and catch you.
·
If the dog is sleeping, chewing
on a toy, or eating, don’t disturb them. Approach calmly and quietly. Never
take a toy or food away from a dog unless you are sure it is safe to do so.
·
Dogs, like most animals usually
have territory issue when they see an unexpected visitor. They feel threatened
and result to counter attack. So, be careful when you enter in their territory.
·
Don’t interrupt a mother dog
taking care of her puppies.
·
If a dog approaches you when
it's off the leash, don't run away and yell or make loud noises. Stand still,
with your arms held close to you, and avoid eye contact with the dog.
·
Be careful around sick and old
dogs. They may be more irritable than a younger one. Approach these dogs with
extra caution.
·
When kids are playing with a
dog, although the dog may be your own, make sure an adult is always around.
·
Dogs are regarded as compassionate
animal and they understand love and compassion rendered to them. However, they
can be moody sometimes, so always see their mood and approach accordingly. When
they are cranky, it is better to leave them alone.
·
Children like to pull the dog
when playing with them. Sometimes this can irritate the dog and can counter
attack the children.
·
Understand the dog’s body
language that can be a sign of danger:
·
Tail held stiff and high and is
moving back and forth quickly.
·
The dog is looking at you from
the corner of his eye, with a lot of the white exposed.
·
Dog nose is pulled back and
wrinkled.
·
Dog lips are pulled back to
reveal his teeth.
·
Dog hair along his neck and
spine is raised.
·
Dog body is tense.
·
The dog is growling or snarling.
If you or a
loved one has been bitten by a dog as a result of the dog owner’s negligence,
then contact The Reinken Law Firm.
We offer free consultations during which you speak directly with our dog bite attorney.
Call us at 203-541-0090. For more information, please visit our website www.connecticutaccident.net.
