Staying safe from dogs ::
Many serious and deadly dog attacks are inflicted on children who are visiting or living temporarily at the home of a grandparent, family friend or babysitter where a pit bull or rottweiler is kept.1
Most dangerous situations
- Leaving an infant or toddler alone with any breed of dog.
- New or temporary living situations involving children and dangerous dog breeds.
- Any dog with a history of aggression in a household with children.
- Approaching a chained dog, especially if it is male and unaltered.
- Encountering a pack of loose dogs, familiar or unfamiliar to you.
- Inserting yourself into a dogfight, especially when fighting breeds are involved.
- Approaching a vehicle with a dog inside (or in the bed of a truck).
- Walking your leashed dog in front a home that harbors a pit bull.
- Passing a pit bull on the street with your child or leashed dog.
Always remember
- Do not pet a dog without first letting it see you, even when you know the dog!
- Do not lean your face close to a dog.
- Do not approach an unfamiliar dog, even if it seems friendly or healthy.
- Do not tease a dog, especially a chained or tethered dog.
- Do not startle a sleeping dog.
- Do not play aggressive games with your dog.
- Do not bother a dog that is eating.
- Do not disturb a dog that is caring for puppies.
- Do not turn your back on a dog and run away.
Body language indicating bite risk2
- Tensed body
- Stiff tail
- Drawn back head and/or ears
- Furrowed brow
- Yawning
- Flicking tongue
- Intense stare
- Backing away
- Eyes rolled so whites are visible
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