Tips to Avoid a Dog Bite
And Stay Safe Around Dogs
Though most people don't really think about it, dog bites can be very dangerous. Some bites can land people in the hospital, leaving permanent scars and damage. There are times when the owner's own dog causes this much damage!
However, it doesn't have to be this way. Here are some tips to avoid dog bites.
Always be aware of your surroundings. If you are out walking (or just minding your own business), keep an eye out for what is happening around you. That way, you know if there is a dog that you need to watch out for!
When you see a dog, keep an eye out for any signals that he or she may give you. Signs of aggression may include a wrinkled muzzle, growling, showing teeth, and a general tense appearance. You may also notice the hair on the back of the dog standing up. Some may stare at you like they are ready to pounce.
You should also be looking for fearful dogs because they are likely to bite also. They may be looking around in a panic. Some can't walk in a straight line because they are too busy watching and waiting for something to happen. They may also be shaking or trying to keep their body as flat as possible so that they are left alone.
You really shouldn't approach any dogs that you don't know. If you don't know the dog, you shouldn't be going anywhere near it. You don't know the history of the dog. Some dogs just don't like strangers. Some don't like to be approached or touched in different ways. You could be asking for trouble by going up to dogs that will see you as a stranger.
That being said, you should always ask the owner before you pet a dog that doesn't know you. He or she will be able to let you know if their dog is friendly or not.
However, if you do, you need to remain calm and relaxed. It is true that dogs can smell fear. If you are intimidated at all, they will know. Instead, take a few breaths and slowly approach the dog.
If you are knocking at a door with a barking dog, you should stand back. You should put space between you and the dog. This gives you time to react and meet the dog if the owner simply opens the door and lets the dog out.
Always remember that, if you get scared, you should never scream and run away from the dog. This can make the whole situation worse. You may scare the dog more, which could make the dog react even more. If the dog is aggressive, it may see that as a threat. The dog may be even more interested in biting and attacking you.
Another big thing that you need to remember is that you should NEVER break up a dog fight with your hands. This is true even with your own dogs. If your dog (or other dogs) are in a fight, they are just acting out of instinct. They would bite you in a heartbeat, thinking that they were still fighting the other dog. You should use a broom or other long object to try to separate them. A hose may also work.
If you are out and about, you should always know what is going on. This way, a dog won't sneak up and startle you. You also need to watch out for signs of aggression and fear. These dogs are more likely to bite you. It is also important that you don't get in the middle of a dog fight. Even your own dog would bite if you grabbed him and her to stop the fight!
About the Creator
Shelley Wenger
Small town country girl in southern Pennsylvania. Raising two boys on a small farm filled with horses, goats, chickens, rabbits, ducks, dogs, and a cat. Certified veterinary technician and writer at Virtually Shelley.
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