It’s the time of year when people spend much more time outside for things like dining, gardening and walking around the neighborhood. This can mean coming into contact with animals like dogs much more often, so it can be a good idea to know how to protect yourself against the potential for biting incidents.
Approach strange dogs with caution
Keeping your distance from dogs you do not know is always a good rule of thumb. If you see a dog you wish to approach to pet, ask the owner first and ensure the dog is properly restrained.
If you see a stray dog running or roaming on its own, approach it cautiously if it feels safe to do so. Otherwise, you can call the authorities if you can’t or do not want to catch it yourself.
Keep a close eye on kids
Children often love to pet dogs and play with them. However, they may not have the understanding or maturity to always interact safely. And sadly, children are the most common dog bite or attack victims.
Be sure you talk to your kids about staying away from strange dogs and asking for owners’ permission before petting one.
Dog owners should always have dogs on a leash when they leave their house, but this doesn’t always happen, so keeping an eye on your kids outside can be crucial.
Know the signs of an aggressive dog
There are many reasons why a dog might be aggressive, from being scared or anxious to protecting its owner. Knowing the signs that a dog might be aggressive or on edge can help you protect yourself against bites or attacks. Pay close attention to their body language and keep your distance if you notice:
- Barking
- Growling
- Flattening ears tightly on their heads
- Tucking their tails under their bodies
- Showing their teeth
- Becoming very rigid or freezing
- Lunging
These signs might be obvious or subtle, but they can all indicate that a dog may be aggressive.
All dogs are capable of biting, regardless of their breed or how familiar you might be with them. Knowing these tips for staying safe around them this season can help you protect yourself and avoid dog-biting incidents.