Avoid Dog Bites

How can I avoid being bitten by a dog?

• Never approach a strange dog, especially one who's tied up or confined behind a fence or in a car.
• Don't pet a dog, even your own, without letting him or her see and sniff you first.
  
• Never turn your back to a dog and run away. A dog's natural instinct is to chase and catch fleeing prey.
• Don't disturb a dog while he or she is sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy, or caring for puppies.
• Be cautious around strange dogs. Always assume that a dog who doesn't know you may see you as an intruder or as a threat.
  

What should I do if I think a dog may attack?

• Never scream and run. Remain motionless, hands at your sides, and avoid eye contact with the dog.
• Remain motionless with your hands at your sides until the dog loses interest in you, then slowly back away until he or she is out of site.
• If the dog does attack, "feed" him or her your jacket, purse, or anything that you can put between yourself and the dog.
• If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears and remain motionless. Try not to scream or roll around.