Take Steps To Avoid Dog Bites

If you have ever been the victim of a dog attack, you are among over five million U.S. residents who suffer from personal injuries due to a dog bite every year.

According to the World Wide Pet Industry Association (WWPIA), the oldest nonprofit organization that promotes responsible pet care, every year in the U.S. the cost relating to dog bites is over $1 billion.

WWPIA president Doug Poindexter noted that more people will spend time outside with their dogs as the summer approaches. He says that the community being aware of how to interact properly with dogs and pet owners understanding their public responsibilities is important.

Here are some safety tips from the WWPIA:

• Always ask before petting a dog. You should always ask the dog’s owner before petting it, as some may not be properly socialized and attack a stranger who attempts to pet them.
• Be careful. If a dog’s hair is standing up, do not pet him. Hair standing up is generally a sign of anger or irritability, meaning the dog does not wish to be touched.
• Manner matters. You should never approach a dog from behind or make loud or abrupt movements during your approach. A dog will not like being surprised, especially by a stranger.
• Use common sense. You should keep away from a dog that is eating or sleeping, as it could be caught by surprise or become territorial.
• Educate your kids. Most victims receiving personal injuries from dog attacks are children, half of which are bites to the face. You should teach your kids the previous tips and supervise their behavior around unfamiliar dogs.