Staying Safe When Approached by a Strange Dog
May 15, 2009 by Paris and John
Filed under Safety, Tips
May 17 marks the beginning of National Dog Bite Prevention Week, an important program to help everyone–from dog families to families with small children–prevent and avoid bites.
Today’s tips come from Bark Busters, the world’s largest dog training company, on staying safe when a strange dog approaches. These are good tips whether you’re walking and see a strange dog, wondering how to help a lost dog, or instructing your child in how to take steps to avoid a dog bite:
- Don’t turn and run–dogs naturally love to chase and catch things.
- Stand still, with your hands at your sides. In most cases, the dog will go away when it determines you are not a threat.
- Don’t put your hand out–just allow the dog to approach you to sniff you.
- Don’t scream. If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly.
- Face the dog at all times, but don’t stare. Avoid eye contact.
- Back away slowly, watching the dog from the corner of your eye, until the dog is out of sight.
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