Dog Bite Prevention Tips
Always ask before petting someone else’s dog (or cat); then let the dog sniff the back of your hand before you touch. If you see a loose dog, tell an adult. If it approaches you, stand still and quiet. Keep your hands at your sides so that s/he is comfortable around people.
Spay or neuter your dog. Dogs who have not been spayed or neutered are three times more likely to bite than those who have not. When petting a dog, pet gently on the back or side.
Avoid petting the dog’s head or around the mouth.
Learn as much as you can about how animals communicate by the way they look, act and sound.
Children should pet someone else’s dog at arm’s length. You don’t want the child’s face to be the body part closest to the dog’s teeth.
Don’t touch a dog/cat while he is eating, sleeping or guarding something. Pets naturally guard their food, babies, toys, car and yard.
Don’t chain your dog outside for long periods of time. This can cause dogs to feel isolated and become aggressive.
Don’t run from a dog. A dog’s natural instinct is to chase. Stand still, like a tree, usually the dog will sniff you, then leave you alone.
Don’t touch a sick or scared animal. It may bite you out of fear or surprise.
Don’t stare into a dog’s eyes. They may think you are threatening them.
Don’t hug someone else’s dog; they may perceive it as an attack and may snap back.