Children are naturally curious when it comes to dogs. Most children feel very safe approaching a dog because the dog is cute and furry, not unlike a stuffed toy. But unfortunately not all dogs are willing to tolerate a curious or affectionate child. According to the CDC, dog bites occur every 75 seconds in the United States and it is the fifth leading cause of Emergency Room visits for children.
While all attacks can not be prevented, teaching your child basic rules for approaching a dog may be the difference between a fun afternoon and a serious injury.
1) Teach your child to also ask permission from the owner before approaching a dog. Not all dogs are tolerant of children and may see them as a threat.
2)Avoid running around dogs you don’t know. Dogs have an instinct to chase and catch. Running around the dog only wakes up this instinct and the dog may not see it as a game.
3)Don’t bother a dog who is sleeping, eating, or guarding something. Many dogs were bred to guard something or someone. Taking objects away may upset the dog and spark an attack.
4)Teach your child not to hug the dog. While some dogs tolerate this behavior it may cause other dogs to become upset and feel threatened and cause the dog to bite.
Common injuries from animal attacks include:
- Puncture wounds
- Lacerations
- Broken bones (often caused by an animal that causes a person to fall)
- Permanent scarring (particularly on the face and arms)
- Death
Seek medical treatment right away if you or someone you love is attacked by an animal. Read more about steps you should take after being bitten here.
If you or a loved one has been attacked by an animal, call Dog Bite Lawyer Paul Thomson, of The Thomson Law Firm today. The Thomson Law Firm serves clients in Virginia and West Virginia and offers free consultations to animal attack victims. Call today (540) 777-4900.
