Millions of dog bite accidents occur every year, and most involve children. In some cases, a dog bite injury is very serious and may even require emergency treatment, or worse, surgery.
Dogs generally react to a person’s body language and gestures. If the dog is not familiar with you or your behavior, he may sense you’re a threat. It’s very important for both children and adults to learn basic manners around dogs, especially unfamiliar dogs, in order to stay safe and free from injury.
Dog Manners 101
- Don’t tease a dog, pull his ears, tail or another body part.
- Always ask the owner if it’s okay to touch the dog.
- Don’t, under any circumstances, approach an unfamiliar dog.
- Make sure the dog sees you and let him sniff you before you touch him.
- Respect the dog’s space and don’t crowd him.
- Never bother a dog who is sleeping, eating or caring for her puppies.
- Don’t take a bone or toy away from a dog.
- When giving a treat, use your open palm, not your fingers.
Conduct Around an Angry Dog
If you’re approached by an angry dog, try to follow the below suggestions.
- Stay calm, remain quiet and don’t scream.
- If possible, stand with your back to the dog. When the dog loses interest in you, slowly back away. Don’t run.
- Do not look the dog directly in his eyes.
- If the dog attempts biting or attacking you, place anything you can between you and the animal – a bag, bike, jacket, etc.
- If you are knocked over, roll into a ball and cover your face and ears. Lie still and don’t roll around, or the dog will think you’re trying to fight back, prompting him to attack even more.
If you or your child sustained a dog bite injury, follow the below tips:
- Wash the wound immediately with warm water and mild soap.
- Immediately contact your doctor, or head to the local emergency room if the bite seems serious, especially if the dog is unknown. Some injuries may be more serious than they first appear.
- Get the name and address of the dog’s owner and information about the dog, including vaccinations and rabies shots. You’ll also want to know what his usual temperament is, and whether he’s bitten before.
No matter the type, size, or breed, dogs bite. Even the most well-mannered dog will bite when he’s surprised, feels threatened, scared or agitated.
If you’ve been injured by a dog, contact us for more information on how our firm can help you receive the compensation you deserve due to your injury. After all, it is the dog owner’s responsibility to protect you from their dog.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Please contact attorney Kirk Anderson for an initial consultation.