May 18 – 24, 2014 is National Dog Bite Prevention Week. What will you do to prevent dog bites this week?
10. Educate children about how to act around dogs. Encourage them not to run and scream, which makes them look like prey. And make sure you let parents know if you see their children taunting or inciting a dog.
9. Neuter your dog to reduce aggressiveness.
8. Train your dog in basic obedience as soon as possible.
7. Socialize your dog to help him or her get over the fear many dogs experience in new situations.
6. If your dog is aggressive, plan ahead before going out in public. If you need a muzzle, get one!
5. Learn to read your dog’s body language and remove him or her from situations that make the animal nervous.
4. Provide your dog with “alone” time when needed. Everyone needs some down time now and again.
3. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep him or her happy.
2. Lock the dog up in a bedroom or outside if you will be having guests over, especially if the group will include children.
1. Leave your dog at home when you are attending crowded events, especially those that involve lots of noise like fireworks displays this summer.
Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!