Health Care for the Life of your Pet

Bite Prevention

United States Dog Bite Statistics:

70% of dog bites are children

77% of bites are family dogs or the dog is a friend of the family

25% of homeowners' insurance claims are dog bites

61% of dog attacks happen at home or a familiar place

Do's and Don't of Preventing Dog Bites:

Never run up to a dog, even if you know the pet.

Approach a from the side or the front, never sneak up on a dog.

It's best to pet a dog under the chin or on the back.

Never approach a dog that is aroused, growling or showing teeth.

Avoid rough games like tug a war with dogs.

Never run away from a dog, experts recommend to stand like a tree.  Avoid eye contact.

Dog Owner:

Dog owners should begin training and socializing a dog or puppy when it first comes to the new home. 

Get your pet accustomed to having every part of it's body handled.

Never leave children unattended around pets.

Keep your pet on leash in a public area.

Never force your dog to "say HI" if he/she is acting wary of the situation.

3 Steps of Meeting a Dog:

1. Ask the owner permission to meet the dog.

2. Ask the dog's permission, you will do this step by:

      Make a fist with the palm pointed down.  They can slowly extend their arm towards the pet for them to sniff.

3. Pet the dog

      If the owner and the pet said yes, it is ok then to pet under the chin.  Avoid petting the head or leaning over the pet.