With an estimated 4.5 million dog bites occurring annually in the United States, it’s safe to say more can be done to prevent these accidents from occurring. Owners can take steps, based on facts, to help prevent their dogs from harming others. Many of these tips are extremely easy to implement and can help save another person from being on the receiving end of a dog bite.
Be EXTRA Cautious Around Children
The American Humane Association’s latest study shows that 82% of dog bites treated in the emergency room were for children under the age of 15. This is an enormous number of children suffering from injuries each year. If owners increase the supervision of their dogs when they’re around children, this number will undoubtedly decrease.
Look for Unusual Body Language From Your Dog
Dogs have one way to express their feelings; through body language. Luckily, their body language can explain a lot about how they are feeling. Some indications that your dog may be uncomfortable include:
- Licking their lips
- Panting when they’re not overheated
- Yawning excessively
- Growling
- Arching their body
- Standing back hair (Mohawk along the spine)
If your dog is showing any of these signs, be sure to make space between your dog and whatever is making them feel this way.
Punishing for Growling Isn’t the Right Approach
Many owners punish their dogs for growling. While this is a completely understandable approach, it may be the wrong way to handle the situation. Dogs growl as a warning sign.
When you teach them not to growl, they will stop growling, which means they will stop giving a warning sign that they are uncomfortable. This may lead to unexpected situations, which likely can be prevented otherwise.
Kwartler Manus Can Help
While there are things that can be done to prevent dogs from biting people, it’s up to the owner to properly manage their animal. At the end of the day, owners are the ones held responsible for their dog’s actions, in most cases. When a dog is not supervised properly, it may act out and cause harm to others, most often through dog bites.
At Kwartler Manus, we understand that:
- A dog bite is completely preventable.
- A dog bite is most commonly the direct result of owner negligence.
- A dog bite shouldn’t cause you to change the way you live the rest of your life.
If you suffer injuries as a result of a dog bite, there are steps to take to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call us today (267) 457-5570 for more information on how we can help over a free consultation.