Avoid Being Attacked

Safety Tips to Avoid Dog Bites

There are four major ''DON'T''s that you can follow to help avoid dog bites to you or a loved one:

• 1) Don't approach unfamiliar dogs or dogs that are behind a fence. The territorial instincts of dogs can lead them to suddenly become aggressive if they sense you are ''trespassing'' on their territory.

• 2) Don't touch a dog before first allowing it to sniff your hand. When a dog approaches you, stop and extend your hand for it to sniff; stand still.

• 3) Don't try to pet the dog when it is not aware you are approaching. Dogs can lash out when startled, such as when approached while sleeping, eating, playing with a toy or other dog, or caring for puppies.

• 4) Don't run from or past a dog. While you might even be ignoring the dog, dogs almost never ignore something that moves. Avoid attracting that kind of attention.

Young children and dogs

Even if it is a dog you know, never leave a baby or small child alone with it. This is a situation that requires your constant supervision: many serious and even fatal injuries have occurred when a young child's lack of judgment has unintentionally provoked a dog's instincts to protect itself.

If you're threatened by a dog

Keep your head, and keep still. Loud yelling or sudden movements will only heighten their aggression. If you must move, do not turn your back, do not make eye contact, and move away slowly. Use a steady firm voice if you speak. If you accidentally fall or are knocked down, curl defensively into a ball and use your arms to protect your head and face.

Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer with Our Firm

The pain and terror of a dog attack is suffering enough; get the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been involved in a dog attack, contact Slocumb Law Firm. Our experienced lawyers fight to see that you get the compensation that is rightfully yours.

Don't delay: the initial consultation is free.