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Approach Dogs with Care
A dog may be everyone’s best friend, but that friendship can turn dangerous in an instant if you don’t know how to treat dogs safely.
Approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control; close to one in five require medical attention. Children, especially those aged 5 to 9, are more likely to need medical care as a result of dog bites.
Remember these basic rules for interacting with dogs safely and respectfully:
Ask permission. Always ask the dog’s owner for permission before trying to pet his or her dog.
Be quiet and gentle. Tell your children not to run or shout when approaching a dog. Pet or stroke dogs gently, without any sudden movements.
Let the dog sniff you. Extend your closed hand and let the animal take a sniff to become familiar with you and your scent before petting it.
Avoid direct eye contact. Dogs perceive this as threatening or challenging.
Don’t interrupt. If a dog is eating, sleeping, or taking care of puppies, stay away.
Don’t run. If you feel threatened by a dog, don’t run away. Stand still, with your arms down or crossed in front of your chest, and look away from the dog. All of these behaviors show the animal that you’re not a threat.
Protect yourself. If you’re knocked down or attacked by a dog, curl up, protecting your face and eyes, and lie still until the dog calms down or goes away.