| SAFETY AROUND DOGS Loose or stray dogs are in danger. They can get hit by cars, get lost or stolen, get in fights with other animals, eat poison, be exposed to extreme weather, and encounter many other potential dangers. But stray dogs also may be a danger to people, especially children. Just because a dog may look friendly--perhaps even be someone's companion--there is still a very good possibility that he may bite. It is important to remember that any dog, regardless of breed or size, has the potential to bite. Each year, thousands of people in Chicago alone are bitten by dogs. Far too many people are bitten simply because they are unaware of the correct and incorrect ways of acting around dogs. It is important to understand that dogs bite when they feel threatened, when they sense danger, or when they become overly excited. Because of this, it is important that children are aware of the proper ways of reacting to a dog. The Mistakes: People who see a stray or unfamiliar dog may try to establish a friendly relationship by petting the animals. However, the dog may interpret the extension of the hand as a hostile motion--he may feel as if he is going to be hit. If this is the case, the dog will try to protect himself by biting. Another very common (and natural) reaction is running from the dog. However, when a person runs, the dog will instinctively give chase. Keep in mind that the dog can run faster than a person, and that people will get tired a lot quicker than dogs. The third--and most serious--mistake people make is that they hit, abuse, or throw objects at the dog. Not only is this cruel, but it is also illegal. Such an action will cause the dog to feel defensive and threatened. Consequently, someone treating an animal in this way will most likely get bitten. The Correct Actions: When the dog approaches, one should simply freeze. Stand very still. Be quiet and calm. This may be hard for children to do because they may be frightened or excited, but it is very important. At this point, the dog may approach the person and sniff, in order to get to know as much as he can about that person, and make sure that he's not going to get hurt. This is a ritual that dogs will engage in when they meet other dogs for the first time: one will stand stationary while the other circles, sniffing. While the dog sniffs, do not stare the dog directly in the eyes. Direct eye contact with any dog is considered, in "dog language," a challenge. The fewer opportunities for aggression that a person gives a dog, the safer that person will be. One should simply allow the dog to sniff, remembering to remain quiet, calm, and still. After he has found out all he needs to know, especially the fact that he is not in danger or being threatened, the dog will grow bored and go on his way. As he leaves, one must remember not to scream, yell, or run--just simply back away. The Result By understanding dogs and by understanding the correct ways to act around them, adults and children alike will be able to help keep themselves safe. But what about the dog's safety? Now that the people are out of harm's way, we must try to help the dog (or any stray companion animal). Domestic animals which are running loose in the streets, alleys, parks, etc. are in danger. Call The Anti-Cruelty Society or your local shelter for advice on how to help these animals. |
| KEEPING SAFE AROUND DOGS |