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Dog Safety Tips to Remember

       
                                   
                                           
       

When Greeting a Dog:

     
       
Before patting someone's dog, ask the owner’s permission because the dog may not be friendly. If the owner says it's okay, approach slowly, calmly and quietly. Quick movements may frighten or excite the dog.

Face the dog, stand still, hang your hands at your side and speak to him in a calm voice. 

Don’t put out your hand; let the dog come to you.

Allow the dog to sniff you so he can learn who you are.

Face the dog at all times, but don’t stare into his eyes because it might frighten him.


     
                                           
       

When Interacting With a Dog:

If a dog growls, barks, chases or runs at you, don’t turn and run. Dogs naturally love to chase and catch things that are moving and dogs can run much faster than people. Stand totally still and cross your hand in front of your body.

If a dog is chasing you while you are riding your bike, stop your bike and put it between you and the dog. Then stand very still.

Stay away from a dog that is tied up. A dog can be more aggressive when he is tied up.

Never disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping or caring for puppies. Leave the dog alone.

Never approach a dog that is injured or sick. Ask an adult to help the injured dog.

Never pat a dog that is playing with a toy. Dogs are often protective of toys and may think you are trying to take away the toy.

If a dog knocks you to the ground, roll into a ball, cover your face with your arms and stay as still as you possibly can. Do not try to get up. If you are not moving, the dog will be more likely to leave you alone.

If you want to give a dog a treat, ask the owner first and then toss the treat onto the ground near the dog. Don’t hand the treat to the dog.

Never pat a dog that is behind a fence. Most dogs naturally protect their property and home.

If you are playing and your ball goes over the fence, ask the homeowner to get it for you

Never try to pat a dog that is in a car. Stay away from the car. Dogs will often protect that space and may bite out of fear.

Don’t put your arms around dog to hug him. You could frighten him, and his reaction could be to nip or bite you.

Don’t think that smaller dogs are safer to approach than larger dogs – any dog of any breed can bite.

Never pull a dog’s tail or ears; dogs feel pain, too.

NEVER try to separate two fighting dogs!
Find an adult to help. Even if one dog is yours, always find an adult to help. You could become seriously injured if you try to break up a dogfight.