Best Practices to Prevent Dog Bites
- • Have a dog evaluated and properly trained and socialized before bringing it into the home, especially if young children are present. Meet the dog’s parents if possible.
- • Do not buy or adopt breeds that are known to be aggressive.
- • Evaluate if the dog is stressed or anxious and may be getting ready to bite by looking at the various body parts such as: ears pulled back and tense or forward; darting eye movements; tight lips, closed mouth, teeth bared; low drooping position of the head; paws held close to the body or toes curled tightly; tail low or between the legs; and a curled up or crouched- down body posture.
- • Spay or neuter dogs to reduce aggressive tendencies.
- • Never approach a dog you do not know, and assume that it will bite.
- • Do not disturb strange dogs that are sleeping, eating, or raising puppies.
- • If a strange dog approaches an individual, remain still, don’t make any sudden sounds or movements, and back away slowly.
- • If attacked, try to place objects between the dog and the person while protecting the face and neck.
- • Never leave infants or young children alone with a dog.
Drowning
(See Chapter 10, “Recreational Environment and Swimming Areas”)
