Protect Your Child From Dog Bites
We have just completed National Dog Bite Prevention Week and we thought that we would take the time to pass some safety information on to you.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, every year, dogs bite 4.7 million Americans, with 48 percent of all reported bites to victims younger than 10 years old. Children are 300 times more likely than adults to be bitten.
"Children are particularly vulnerable to this type of injury because of their smaller size and their inexperience with animals," says Renee R. Jenkins, MD, FAAP, president of the AAP. "Adults should be sure to properly choose and socialize pets, and teach their children how to be safe around dogs both those they know and those they don't know."
They also offer these tips for dog bite prevention, which we thought we would pass along to you.
Carefully consider your pet selection. Puppies should not be obtained on impulse. Before and after selection, your veterinarian is the best source for information about behavior and suitability.
Make sure your pet is socialized as a young puppy so it feels at ease around people and other animals. Gradually expose your puppy to a variety of situations under controlled circumstances; continue that exposure on a regular basis as your dog gets older. Don’t put your dog in a position where it feels threatened or teased.
Wait until your child is older. Because so many dog bites happen to young children, it is suggested that parents wait to get a dog until their children are older than 4 years of age.
Train your dog. The basic commands “sit,” “stay,” “no,” and “come” can be incorporated into fun activities which build a bond of obedience and trust between pets and people. Avoid highly excitable games like wrestling or tug-of-war. Use a leash in public to control your dog.
Keep your dog healthy. Have your dog vaccinated against rabies and preventable infectious diseases. Parasite control and other health care is important because how your dog feels directly affects how it behaves.
Neuter your pet. It’s a fact: neutered dogs are 3 times less likely to bite.
Be a responsible pet owner. License your dog with the community as required. Obey leash laws. Dogs are social animals; spending time with your pet is important. Dogs that are frequently left alone have a greater chance of developing behavior problems.
Be alert. Know your dog. Be alert to signs of illness. Also watch for signs your dog is uncomfortable or feeling aggressive.
How can my family and I avoid being bitten? Be cautious around strange dogs and treat your own pet with respect.
Because children are the most frequent victims of dog bites, parents and caregivers should:
• NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.
• Be on the look out for potentially dangerous situations.
• Start teaching young children – including toddlers – to be careful around pets.
Children must be taught NOT to approach strange dogs. Teach children to ask permission from a dog’s owner before petting the dog.
These are great tips, not only for this week, but for all times.
By the way, these are great safety tips for adults, as well as your children.
Plan. Be careful!
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