Dog Bite Prevention

Margaret Embry — Tue, 26 May 2009 11:48:42 GMT

The recent National Dog Bite Prevention Week created awareness of how big the problem of dog bites is in the United States, as well as provided education on how to prevent dog bites. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 4.5 million Americans are the victims of dog bites annually. Of these victims, about one in five require medical attention due to their injuries (totaling 885,000). Over 31,000 people underwent reconstructive surgery as a result of being bitten by dogs in 2006. People most at risk for being bitten by a dog include children, adult males, and people with dogs in their homes.

There are ways to make dog bites less likely for adults and children. If a household is considering bringing a dog into their home they should first consult with a professional to find out what breed best fits the household, never choose a dog that has a history of aggressive behavior if there are children in the home, pay attention to fearful cues children are showing when around dogs (if any), spend time with the dog before adopting it, and use caution when bringing a dog into a home with infants or toddlers.

Once a dog is brought into a home, spay or neuter the dog, never leave the dog alone with infants or toddlers, avoid playing aggressive games with the dog, properly socialize and train the dog, and contact a professional if the dog develops aggressive behavior.

To help prevent a child from being bitten, teach and follow the safety tips outlined by the CDC:

Do not approach an unfamiliar dog.

Do not run from a dog or scream.

Remain motionless (e.g., "be still like a tree") when approached by an unfamiliar dog.

If knocked over by a dog, roll into a ball and lie still (e.g., "be still like a log").

Do not play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.

Immediately report stray dogs or dogs displaying unusual behavior to an adult.

Avoid direct eye contact with a dog.

Do not disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.

Do not pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.

If bitten, immediately report the bite to an adult.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Margaret Embry

Tallahassee Personal Injury Lawyer - Dog Bit Victim

Dog Bite Prevention