Avoiding a Dog Bite Injury – 7 Things to Know
Written by Cooper & Friedman PLLC on December 26, 2016
Dogs are the oldest domesticated animal on Earth. For hundreds of years, they have been referred to as “man’s best friend.” Despite the friendly nature of the majority of these animals there are still certain safety precautions that need to be taken when interacting with any dog of any breed, size, or familiarity. As lovable as dogs might be, they still have their own minds, their own temperaments, and the ability to bite. A dog bite injury may cause serious pain, scarring, and nerve damage. A dog bite injury also has a high risk of infection which places the victim at risk of serious illness or death.
People living with or working around dogs should be aware of the risks associated with dog bites. They should also educate themselves on how to take the proper precautions for prevention of a dog bite injury. With a few simple tips, you can learn how to reduce your risk of dog bites.
Who is at Highest Risk of a Dog Bite Injury?
Children – Among children, dog bite injuries are highest for kids between 5 and 9 year of age.
Men – Statistically, men are more likely to suffer a dog bite injury than women.
7 Tips to Avoid A Dog Bite Injury from Louisville Personal Injury Attorneys
- Remain motionless when approached by an unfamiliar dog. Acting abrasive with lots of movement or trying to run from an unfamiliar dog risks aggravating it. This can cause it to chase, become aggressive and bite.
- Curl into a ball with your head tucked and hands over your ears and neck. If a dog knocks you to the ground, this technique can help protect your body from a dog bite injury.
- Notify your neighborhood of a stray dog that is exhibiting odd behavior. By notifying neighbors of stray dogs, everyone can be on the lookout and work to avoid problems before they happen.
- Don’t approach unfamiliar dogs. No matter how cute a dog may appear to be, it is important to remember that looks don’t reveal temperament. You don’t know how vicious a dog can be and approaching it without introduction could elicit a bite.
- Do not disturb a dog that appears to be sleeping or eating. Sneaking up on a dog while it’s sleeping or audibly approaching one from behind while it’s eating can be alarming. This behavior has the possibility of resulting in an attack.
- Do not pet a dog without allowing it to see you and sniff you first. It’s not advisable to pet a dog without an owner’s permission. If you do, then make sure that the dog has an opportunity to intake your scent first. Petting a dog without any sort of connection can put the dog on high alert.
- Don’t let small children play with a dog unsupervised. Make sure an adult is present when children are playing with a dog, so that the adult can monitor the interactions between the dog and the child to make sure the child isn’t provoking the dog in any way that could result in it getting agitated.
Injured by a Dog? Get Help from Serious Personal Injury Attorneys
These tips will help to prevent dog bite injury from occurring, but if you, or someone you love, has already suffered from a dog bite injury then act fast and get the legal protection you deserve. The injury attorneys at Cooper and Friedman have over 45 combined years of experience defending the rights of injury victims across Southern Indiana and Kentucky. For more information, or a free case consult with a dog bite attorney, call 502-459-7555 today.