Avoiding Dog Bites
Always be cautious around strange or unfamiliar dogs. You should never approach an unfamiliar dog, especially one that is in a car, behind a fence or tied up. A dog that does not know you may identify you as an intruder or a threat.
When it comes to petting, you should never pet a dog, even your own dog, without letting the dog see you and smell you first. Also never disturb a dog when it is eating, nursing or sleeping. Finally, when it is time to leave the area of the dog, do not turn your back and run. The dog's natural instinct may be to run and catch you.
According to the Humane Society of the United States if a dog approaches you and you feel the dog may attack, follow the steps below:
- Do not scream or run away
- Stay motionless with your hands at your sides and avoid eye contact with the dog
- When the dog loses interest in you, slowly back away from the dog until it is out of sight
- If the dog attacks, feed the dog your jacket or any other item you can put between you and the dog
- If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball, place your hands over your ears, and remain motionless and quiet