Tips for Protecting Your Child from Dog Bites
A dog can be a child’s best friend. But nearly half of all U.S. Children have been bitten by a dog; Children less than 10 years of age are the most common victims.
The majority of these bites happen in and around the child’s own home. Many bites are preventable if families follow basic safety tips.
·Choose a good breed for children. Some dogs are naturally more aggressive than others. Consider a good natured breed like a golden retriever, collie, Old English sheepdog, or basset hound.
·Train your dog. It should be willing to respond to commands consistently.
·Teach children never to disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.
·Warn children never to approach a strange dog. Teach them to ask permission from a dog’s owner before petting it.
·Tell children never to stare a dog in the eye. The animal interprets it as a challenge and a sign of aggression.
·Tell children not to run past dogs. Canines naturally like to chase things, and this gives them a reason to become excited and aggressive.
·If a dog threatens your child, tell him or her to remain calm. Stand still, keep his hands down and avoid eye contact if a strange dog comes near. Curl into a ball and cover her head, neck and face if knocked down.
·If a dog bites your child, wash the wound with warm, soapy water, cover it with a clean bandage and call your doctor.