What to Do When Faced with an Aggressive Dog
Man’s best friend has always been the dog. Still, dog bites in Missouri are nonetheless common. What many dog owners do not realize is that any dog can bite, regardless of breed or size. There is no scientific evidence that delineates dog bites to any specific breed. Some dog owners promote aggressive behavior by either encouraging the behavior or letting aggression go unchecked and without punishment.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. require medical attention as a result of dog bites and attacks. Children are the most common victims of dog bites. Here are a few tips on how to deal with dogs or what to do if faced with a potential attack:
- Do not disturb a dog while it is eating, sleeping or caring for puppies.
- Do not pet a dog unless it smells you first.
- If a dog threatens you, remain calm, still and avoid eye contact. Back away slowly until the dog is out of site. Do not turn and run as this will provoke the dog further and may cause it to chase you.
- If a dog knocks you down, curl into a fetal position, making sure to cover your face.
- Teach children to be careful around pets and how to properly interact with them.
- Do not leave a child or infant alone with a dog, ever.
If a dog has bitten you or your child, clean the wound first and consult a medical doctor. You may want to consult an experienced St. Louis dog bite attack lawyer to help you assess the details of your case and file a claim. Call 314-322-8515 to speak with a skilled personal injury attorney at Page Law for a free and comprehensive consultation.
