Does That Dog Bite?

(ED. NOTE: All dogs have the potential to bite, no matter how innocent or friendly they look. Biting and running away are the only two options a dog has when it feels threatened. Dogs are also instinctive and territorial. If you encroach on their territory, they will likely try to defend it. The following material was pulled from various sites on the Internet and the 20/20 program on October 2, 1997.

As responsible pet owners who sally forth into the community with our therapy dogs on a regular basis we in Intermountain Therapy Animals know much of this already, but others don't, and we have a special obligation to know and educate others as often as we can.)

In 1995, 4.7 million Americans were bitten by dogs. This includes 2.8 million children and almost 3,000 mail carriers. The U.S.P.S. says nine mail carriers are bitten daily in 1996. Moreover, 60-70% of dog bites happen to children and the elderly. Dog bites can be prevented through public awareness and responsible pet ownership.

Safety Tips to Avoid Being Bitten

• Don't leave a young child alone with a dog. The child's excitement and erratic movements can mimic those of a dog's natural prey.
• If a dog threatens you, don't scream or run. Avoid eye contact, try to remain motionless until the dog leaves, then back away slowly until the dog is out of sight. Try to put something between you and the dog, i.e. a park bench or tree.
• Never approach or try to pet an unfamiliar dog, especially one that is tied up or confined.
• ALWAYS ask the owner if you may pet their dog. Then allow the dog to see and sniff the palm of your hand before petting it.
• Never lean forward over a dog and try to pet it directly on the head. It may feel threatened and think you are going to hit it.
• Avoid quick, sudden moves or noises that may startle a dog.
• Never pet or step over a sleeping dog.
• Never try to take a bone or toy away from a dog (other than your own).
• Know what an angry dog looks like: barking, growling, snarling with teeth showing, ears laid flat, leg stiff, tail up, and hair standing up on the dog's back.
• Never get in the middle of two dogs fighting. Douse them with water or make a loud noise to distract them from the fight.
• Teach your children these tips. Start very early on, and keep reminding and reinforcing the child's proper behavior around dog.
• Do not approach a mother dog who is nursing her pups.

How To Be a Responsible Dog Owner

• Obey leash and licensing laws and be sure your pets have their rabies shots. Identification tags and vaccination records are vital if you dog bites someone or gets lost.
• When a letter carrier or other delivery people come to your home, keep your dog inside, away from the door, in another room or on a leash.
• Don't let your child take mail from the letter carrier in the presence of your dog. Your dog's instinct is to protect the family.
• Never let your dog run loose.
• Don't leave your dog tied to a tree or confined outside unattended. These actions can cause a dog to become frustrated and increase the chance of aggression.
• Obedience training can teach your dog proper behavior and help you understand his natural instincts so you can control your dog in any situation.
• Spay or neuter your dog--unneutered dogs are more likely to bite.
• If your dog bites or even snaps at someone, call your veterinarian and a professional trainer right away. A snap is only a bite that doesn't connect.

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