Dogs are fun to play with, but only when you know how to take proper safety measures. While most pet dogs are not dangerous, some breeds can pose a threat to your and your children’s safety. Therefore, it is important to take certain measures to lower the risk.
Animals do not bite or attack humans if they are not provoked. Even then, you must take preventative steps to make sure the dog is safe to play with. If you end up injuring yourself with a dog bite, you can hold the dog owner liable for your injuries with the help of a Huntington Beach personal injury attorney.
Dog bite prevention tips
- Do not approach an unfamiliar dog.
Petting and playing with the dogs that know you are safer as the dog can identify you by sniffing you. They know you are safe to be around and feel protected. While unknown dogs may also become comfortable with you on the first day, it is safer not to approach them all of a sudden. You do not know what the dog is like and how they might react to new people. Dogs who are bad at socializing often bite new people in fear.
- Always ask the owner, “May I pet the dog?”
An owner knows their dog the best. Since they live with the animal and have watched it grow up, they are aware of its behavior, habits, the things it likes and dislikes. If a dog does not like being petted by strangers or people they have never met before, the owner would know that and warn you. Therefore, it is always wise to ask the owner whether it is safe.
- Do not run from a dog.
A dog is a predatory animal and can sense fear very easily. While running from a dog you are scared of may seem like the most reasonable option, a dog’s predatory instincts get activated when they see you running away from them in fear. They make it their goal to run after you for longer until they finally catch and bite you. If you want a dog to leave you alone, you should simply stay quiet and calm.
- Let the dog sniff you first.
Before you go over to pet them on the top of their head, slowly hold out the back of your hand and let the dog sniff you. If the dog finds you comforting and safe, they will give you positive feedback, and then you are allowed to pet them. If the dog does not like you, it will let you know.
A dog bite can result in severe injuries and thousands of dollars in healthcare. You should not have to bear the never-ending costs of expensive medical treatments because of someone else’s fault. Contact a Huntington Beach attorney today.
