Pet Matters Western Arizona Humane Society

Martha M. Bennett, Executive Director

This is a regular column, presented every two weeks to provide information about pet and animal care, including the legal responsibilities of pet ownership. We invite you to send us questions to answer in upcoming issues.

It's National Dog Bite Prevention Week May 16 - 22, 1999

1. What is the goal of National Dog Bite Prevention Week?

The Humane Society of the United States presents this national campaign aimed at reducing the number of dog bite injuries in this country through public education and the promotion of responsible dog ownership.

2. How many dog bites occur every year in the United States?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a dog bites nearly 2% of the U.S. population each year. This is more than 4.7 million people per year, most of whom are children.

3. How many people die every year as a result of dog bites?

Ten to twenty people die every year as a result of dog bites in the U.S. By far, the majority of victims are children.

4. Why do some dogs bite?

There are many reasons why a dog may bite. Dogs may bite due to fear, to protect their territory, or to establish their dominance over the person being bitten. Some dog owners mistakenly teach their dogs that biting is an acceptable form of play behavior. Sadly, every year a number of newborn infants die when they are bitten by dogs who see them as "prey". Because dog bites occur for many reasons, many components of responsible dog ownership - including proper socialization, supervision, humane training, sterilization, and safe confinement - are necessary to prevent dogs from biting.

5. Which dogs most commonly bite? Are some breeds more likely to bite than others?

The list of top breeds involved in both bite injuries and fatalities changes from year to year and from one area of the country to another, depending on the popularity of the breed. Although genetics do play some part in determining whether a dog will bite, factors such as whether the dog is spayed or neutered, properly socialized, supervised, humanely trained, and safely confined play a significantly greater role. Responsible ownership of all breeds is the key to dog bite prevention.

6. How can local laws prevent dog bites? Should certain breeds of dogs be outlawed?

The most effective dangerous dog laws are those that place the legal responsibility for a dog's actions on the dog's owner rather than on the dog. Laws that hold the owner of any breed of dog accountable for the bite victim's pain and suffering, and which mandate certain corrective actions such as spay/neuter and proper confinement of the dog, do much more to reduce dog bites than outlawing certain breeds.

7. Is there any way I can "bite-proof" my dog?

Spay or neuter your dog. Socialize your dog. Train your dog. Teach your dog appropriate behavior - don't play aggressive games such as wrestling or "siccing" your dog on another person. Be a responsible dog owner - license your dog and provide regular veterinary care. Err on the safe side - leave your dog at home if he panics in crowds or you don't know how he will react to new situations.

8. What should I do if my dog bites someone?

Confine your dog immediately and check on the victim's condition. If necessary, seek medical help. Provide the victim with important information, such as the date of your dog's last rabies vaccination. Cooperate with the animal control official responsible for acquiring information about your dog. If your dog must be quarantined for any length of time, as whether he may be confined within your home or at your veterinarian's hospital. Strictly follow quarantine requirements for your dog. Seek professional help to prevent your dog from biting again. Consult with your veterinarian, who may refer you to an animal behaviorist or a dog trainer. Your animal control and humane society can offer helpful services. If your dog's dangerous behavior cannot be controlled, do not give him to someone else without carefully evaluating that person's ability to protect him and prevent him from biting. Because you know your dog is dangerous, you may be held liable for any damage he does even when he is given to someone else. Don't give your dog to someone who wants a dangerous dog. "Mean" dogs are often forced to live miserable, isolated lives, and become even more likely to attack someone in the future. If you must give up your dog due to dangerous behavior, consult with your veterinarian and with your local animal control or humane society.

9. How can I avoid being bitten by a dog?

Never approach a strange dog, especially one who's tied or confined behind a fence or in a car. Don't pet a dog - even your own - without letting him see and sniff you first. Never turn your back to a dog and run away. A dog's natural instinct will be to chase and catch you. Don't disturb a dog while he's sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy, or caring for puppies. Be cautious around strange dogs. Always assume that a dog who doesn't know you may see you as an intruder or as a threat.

10. What should I do if I think a dog may attack? If you are approached by a dog who may attack you, follow these steps. Never scream and run. Remain motionless, hands at your sides, and avoid eye contact with the dog. Once the dog loses interest in you, slowly back away until he is out of sight. If the dog does attack, "feed" him your jacket, purse, bicycle, or anything that you can put between yourself and the dog. If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears and remain motionless. Try not to scream or roll around.

11. What should I do if I am bitten by a dog?

Try not to panic. Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water. Contact your physician for additional care and advice. Report the bite to your local animal control officer (855-7479).

12. Can children be taught to avoid being bitten by a dog?

Yes. Teach your children not to chase or tease dogs they know and to avoid dogs they don't know.