Blog Post

How You Can Prevent Dog Bite Injuries

By Admin • Mar 14, 2019
Cute Dog — Southfield, MI — Bernstein & Bernstein

They say that dogs are man's best friend, and dogs can be very loyal companions. Research shows that canines can help decrease depression and stress while also improving fitness levels. However, it is possible for a dog to turn on you, resulting in significant pain, injury or even death in some cases. It is important to be aware of a few precautionary measures that you can take to reduce the risk of getting bitten by a dog.

Be Aware of the Dog's Body Language

Before a dog attacks, it is going to show signs of discomfort and aggression. Dogs don't attack for no reason. There are many reasons that a dog may bite. In most cases, a dog is biting because it is scared and biting is its defense mechanism. Sometimes, though, dogs will bite because they feel anxious, threatened, uncomfortable, sick, worried or conflicted.

If you notice signs that a dog is not wanting to interact, such as moving away, lowering its head or looking away, don't provoke the dog. If you do, the dog may begin growling, showing teeth or biting.

Avoid Approaching Dogs That Are Sleeping or Eating

Do you know how you sometimes jump when you are startled awake? Well, dogs can be alarmed in the same way, so make sure you never sneak up on a sleeping dog. Wait for the dog to wake up from its nap before you play with the dog or make a loud noise that will wake him or her up.

A dog might also attack if it thinks you are getting in the way of a meal. If you approach a dog when it is eating, the dog is likely to think that you are trying to take away its food. Therefore, if you see a dog eating, wait until it is done before approaching it.

Remain Calm and Motionless

If an aggressive or unfamiliar dog ever approaches you, you may be frightened. However, it is important that you do your best to remain as calm as you can. The first thought you may have is to scream and run, but you don't want to do this. The screaming could aggravate the dog, and running is going to cause the dog to start running after you - and there is a good chance that the dog is going to be faster than you are.

Therefore, when a dog approaches you it is best to remain completely still and avoid making eye contact with the dog. Eventually the dog will go about its business. If and when you are able, you can also try to back away at a slow pace.

 Supervise Small Children with Dogs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that small children between the ages of five and nine are the most likely to suffer a dog bite injury that needs to receive medical care. In addition, more than 50 percent of dog bite injuries happen at home so even your own pet can be a danger for children.

It is important that adults do not allow small children to play with dogs unsupervised. An adult should be present at all times to monitor all interactions between children and dogs. Young children do not understand that pulling a dog's tail or trying to sit on a dog's back for a ride is enough to cause a dog to become aggressive and attack.

Contact a Lawyer for Help

The aforementioned tips can help to prevent the occurrence of a dog bite. However, if you or someone you know has already suffered from a dog bite injury, it is important that you act now. The personal injury lawyers at Bernstein & Bernstein Attorneys at Law are ready to help you get the compensation that you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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