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What to do when you meet an animal:
- Ask the owner if you can pet the animal.
- After the owner gives permission, approach slowly and quietly.
- Hold out your hand in a gentle way and let the dog sniff it.
- If the animal seems calm and unafraid, gently pet it.
A dog may bite if it feels afraid, angry, or hurt. It may feel it needs to protect something.
How to prevent dog bites:
- Never pet or play with a dog you don't know if an adult is not present. Tell a grown-up, who should then report the animal to local authorities.
- Never surprise or scare a dog by running up to it.
- Don't run near dogs when playing. Dogs are genetically "programmed" to chase.
- Never stare at a dog. Dogs will see this as a challenge. Don't make any contact with an unfamiliar dog.
- Dogs like to protect what they care about—just like people. Don't bother a dog while it's eating, or disturb a mother dog and her puppies.
You can tell a dog is upset if it is barking, growling, or snarling with its teeth showing. If its ears are laid back, its legs are stiff, and its tail is up, it is warning you. The hair on its back will also stand up. If you continue doing what you are doing, the dog will get more upset and may bite you:
- Put something between you and the dog, like a chair, bike, or piece of clothing.
- Stay calm. Back or walk sideways slowly away, never turn your back on a dog that is upset.
- If you fall, or are knocked to the ground, curl up in a ball, and put your hands over your head and neck.
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