When you are going for a walk or bike ride, you may not think about who you will share the path with until you come upon a dog that is barking or otherwise aggressive. Knowing what to do in those situations to protect yourself is essential. So, what can you do to prevent dog bites and animal attacks when you are out in public? Always be vigilant and know how to respond in these situations. If injured, speak to a San Diego dog bite lawyer immediately.
Understand Why Dog Bites and Attacks Happen
To protect yourself, consider what actions you may take that could put yourself or others at risk. Dogs bite for various reasons:
- They feel scared or are startled.
- They are defending their family members or property.
- They are in pain or not feeling well.
- They are guarding puppies or children.
- They are guarding food or a toy.
If a dog senses a threat, they will react as nature intended, and that is to attack. Avoiding situations where a dog is in any of these situations can protect you from attacks.
Teach Kids How to Act Around Dogs
Going up to a 15-pound dog to pet it seems like a friendly act, but it can create a high risk of injury for victims, especially children. Teach kids the following steps to avoid a dog bite, as shared by Nemours KidsHealth:
- Ask the dog’s owner before touching the dog.
- Avoid allowing a child to approach a dog without supervision.
- Avoid running away from the dog.
- Teach children that if a dog approaches them, they should remain calm.
- Never squeeze a dog too tight, tease a dog by pulling their ears or tails, or bother a dog when they are eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
A child should never be left alone with a dog, even if that dog is one that has lived with them for a long time. Dogs react to changing circumstances in various ways, and their instinct is to protect themselves.
Keep Your Dog Safe from Biting Others
Dog owners have a responsibility to take steps to minimize risks to others. As a pet owner, there are several things you should do to avoid these types of high-risk situations:
- Keep your dog leashed. Unless the dog is in a gated and fenced area or in your home, it needs to be on a leash. Leashing laws differ from one area to the next, but it is always important to keep the pet on a leash when it is not on its own property.
- Socialize your dog. Dogs that are socialized are able to handle situations more readily. Start slowly by introducing your dog to other dogs and people on walks. Do not just put them in a high-risk environment.
- Never leave a dog alone with a child. Always provide supervision when a child comes up to the dog or is near the dog.
By taking these steps, it may be possible to reduce dog bites and attacks, both of which dog owners could be held responsible for.
Know Your Rights After an Accident
If you are attacked by a dog, you have the right to seek legal action. Contact a dog bite lawyer in your community for immediate help following an incident.