Dog Bite Prevention Tips
January 10, 2018
It is always hard to keep yourself from approaching a dog, especially when it belongs to someone you know. But even dogs you know or are someone’s pet can act out with a bite for a variety of reasons.
According to the SPCA, dogs often bite when they are sick, afraid or injured in addition to protecting things like their home, toys or food. Also, different dogs react differently to different actions so it is important to be cautious at all times, especially with dogs you do not know.
In order to keep yourself safe around dogs you should follow the below tips:
- Do not chase or yell at a dog
- Do not play rough with a dog
- Do not disturb an eating or sleeping dog
- Avoid a dog’s food, toys or bowl
- Try not to stand over or corner a dog
- Avoid dogs you do not know, especially if unattended
- If approached, let the dog sniff you and stand still like a tree while avoiding eye contact
These tips are helpful for both adults and children. It is especially important for parents to teach their children the right way to handle a dog and to always respect them and their space.
Here a few tips for greeting a dog, whether it be one you know or one you are just meeting for the first time:
- Approach calmly and slowly
- Avoid eye contact
- Stand or crouch sideways with your shoulder facing the dog. Crouching is good for smaller dogs or ones that are lying down.
- Put out a fisted hand and let the dog sniff you
- If the dog seems okay with you, pet it on the neck or chest. Try to avoid petting on the head.
In the event you follow these tips and a dog still attacks, your best move is to put something between you and the dog. Give up your backpack, jacket, or purse but avoid running away as it will only make matters worse.
It is always unfortunate when a dog bite injury takes place but for those who are victims of a dog bite, there are plenty of legal avenues that can be taken in order to attain compensation for injuries.
In Pennsylvania, the victim may be entitled to a range of damages, pending on the nature of the injury itself, the dog’s dangerous tendencies, if any, and the owner’s negligence.
The attorneys at Goodrich & Geist, P.C. have plenty of experience with dog bite litigation. They are more than prepared to help you get the compensation you deserve while you recover from your injuries. Contact us today at 412-837-8426 to schedule a confidential consultation.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
