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Lesson in Dog Safety Can Help Prevent Bites
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Every year, more than 4.7 million Americans
are bitten by dogs, with more than half of all victims younger than
age 14.
During National Dog Bite Prevention Week, the American
Academy of Pediatrics, American Veterinary Medical Association
and the US Postal Service team up to educate Americans about dog safety.
BROCHURE AVAILABLE: What You Should Know About Dog Bite Prevention (PDF file)
Following are
tips to help parents protect their children from an encounter with
canine teeth:
-
Pick
a good match. Collies and Labrador retrievers are some of the
animals recommended as generally safe with children. Consult
your veterinarian for details about the behavior of different
breeds.
-
Socialize
your pet. Gradually expose your puppy to a variety of people and
other animals so it feels at ease in these situations; continue
this exposure as your dog gets older.
- Train your dog.
Commands can build a bond of obedience and trust between man and beast.
Avoid aggressive games like wrestling or tug-of-war with your dog.
- Vaccinate your
dog against rabies and other diseases.
- Neuter your dog.
Neutered dogs are less likely to bite.
- Never leave a
baby or small child alone with a dog.
-
Teach your child to see if the dog is with an owner and looks friendly. Then ask the owner for permission to pet the dog. Let the dog sniff your child and have your child touch the dog gently, avoiding the face, head and tail.
-
Tell your
child not to bother a dog if it is sleeping, eating or caring
for puppies.
-
Tell your
child not to run past a dog.
-
If
you're threatened by a dog, remain calm. Avoid eye contact. Stand
still until the dog leaves or back away slowly. If you are knocked
down, curl into a ball and protect your face with your hands.
If a dog bites your child, clean small wounds with soap and water
and seek medical attention for larger wounds. Contact the dog's
veterinarian to check vaccination records.
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