Steps to Avoiding Dog Bites

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report that there are 4.5 million dog bites each year, and one out of every five bites becomes infected. Many Americans have family dogs, which makes totally avoiding dogs next to impossible. In fact, more than half of all dog bites occur at home with dogs that are familiar to the victim. However, there are some simple steps that you can take in order to avoid the serious injuries that can result from a dog bite.

If you encounter an unfamiliar dog, you should remain motionless, rather than running from the dog. You should try not to panic or make any loud noises. Do not make direct eye contact with the dog, and tell it “No!” or “Go Home” in a firm and deep voice. Stand with the side of your body toward the dog, as facing the dog from the front can appear aggressive. If the dog knocks you over, you should curl into a ball on the ground with your head tucked and your hands over your head and neck.

Similarly, you should not approach or allow a child to approach a dog that is unfamiliar to you. Don’t ever disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping, or taking care of puppies. Allow the dog to see and sniff you first, before attempting to pet even a familiar dog. Encouraging dogs to play aggressively also can result in an unexpected dog bite, even if it is with your own dog. Even if you are familiar with the dog, still use caution. A dog may bite if he or she is startled, so avoid coming up behind or waking a sleeping dog.

We are the Wisconsin dog bite lawyers to whom you always can turn if you or your loved one suffers serious injuries from the bite of a dog or another animal, or another type of accident. No matter how complex or difficult your situation may be, the Madison injury attorneys of Boller & Vaughan are here to advocate on behalf of you and your family and hold negligent individuals responsible for any injuries that have occurred.