Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, a dog will bite. If you do suffer a bite, get to water and wash the wound immediately. This will decrease the chance of infection. Seek medical care as soon as possible.
If it was your own dog that bit you, confine it and call your Vet to check your dog's vaccination records.
If someone else's dog bit you, contact authorities and tell them everything you can about the dog, including owner's name (if known), color, size, and breed of dog, where the incident took place, circumstances leading up to the attack, and any ideas you may have on where the dog may be.
What if my dog bites someone else?
Even if the bite can be explained or was provoked, it's important to take responsibility for your dog's actions.
Restrain the dog immediately. Separate it from the area attack.
Check the victim's condition. Help them to wash the wound. If serious injury has occurred, call emergency personnel. Encourage the victim to seek medical advice to evaluate the severity of the wounds and risk of infection.
Provide important information. Your name, address, and information about the dog's vaccination and health history are crucial. If your dog doesn't have a current rabies vaccination, it may be necessary to quarantine him until a diagnosis of rabies can be ruled out.
Report the bite to your insurance company. The costs resulting from dog bites can be quite overwhelming.
Comply with local ordinances regarding the reporting of dog bites. All bites should be reported to authorities immediately.
Consult your Vet or a trainer for advice about dog behavior that will help prevent similar problems in the future.
Things to remember
Although there are guaranteed methods for preventing dog bites, following these key rules is essential to reduce the risk.
*Don't let your dog run freely.
*Teach children safe and appropriate behavior around dogs.
*Keep your dog in optimal health.
*Don't run from an aggressive dog.
*Refrain from putting your dog in uncomfortable situations.
*Learn to read your dog's body language.
*Provide positive social interaction for your dog.
*Train your dog in basic obedience.
*Love your dog and have fun with him.
Dog Bite Prevention Part 1, Statistically Speaking
Dog Bite Prevention Part 2, What Made Muffy Bite?
Dog Bite Prevention Part 3, Practicing Safe Behavior
Dog Bite Prevention Part 4, OH NO, Here Comes Butch, And He Doesn't Look Happy
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