They need to learn what constitutes appropriate play, why dogs may bite, what to do when dogs show danger signs, and when dogs are not to be disturbed. Just as children need to be taught how to be well-mannered around other people, they need to be taught proper behavior when around animals. A dog should undergo socialization with all members of the family, people outside the family and other animals. Dog bites are largely preventable and prevention must begin with the owner and how the owner interacts with the dog.

A dog’s tendency to bite depends on such factors as heredity, obedience training, socialization, health and the victim’s behavior. Most of the victims are children under 13 years old with children five to nine years the most vulnerable.ĭog bites are a serious public health/safety problem that can cause both physical and emotional damage to victims and considerable cost to communities. In 1994, some 4.7 million incidents were reported in the United States with nearly 800,000 people requiring medical treatment for dog bite-related injuries. The Problem: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every 40 seconds, someone in the United States seeks medical attention for a dog bite-related injury. Kids and dogs can experience a wonderful relationship together-when dogs are properly trained, socialized and adults use common sense and put safety first.

Author : Children's Dog Bite Prevention Task Force.

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