Stay Dog Bite Free

By Dubuque Regional Humane Society

Millions of American families share their homes with dogs. Most interactions between children and dogs are happy and safe. But some interactions are less positive; every year, an estimated 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs, ranging from minor nips to major attacks.

That’s why the Dubuque Regional Humane Society works to reduce dog bite injuries. The good news is that dog bites can be prevented. The key is educating yourself and your children. Here are some suggestions on how to bite-proof your dog and help your family stay safe around other canines.

•Never approach a strange dog, especially one who’s tied or confined behind a fence or in a car.

•Don’t pet a dog – even your own – without letting him see and sniff you first.

•Never turn your back to a dog and run away. A dog’s natural instinct will be to chase and catch you.

•Don’t disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy, or caring for puppies.

•Be cautious around strange dogs. Always assume that a dog who doesn’t know you may see you as an intruder or a threat.

Just as we teach our children to practice safety in other situations, we can help them to be safe around dogs. The most important lessons for children to learn are never to chase or tease dogs they know and to avoid dogs they don’t know. Teach your children how to be dog bite free.

Excerpted from an article by the Humane Society of the United States and compiled by the Dubuque Regional Humane Society. For more information, see the following links: Dubuque Regional Humane Society at www.dbqhumane.org or Humane Society of the United States at www.hsus.org.