National Dog Bite Prevention Week - May 20 - 26

I initially thought that some horrific pictures of dog bite injuries might help make the point about the serious and important nature of National Dog Bite Prevention Week. However rather than using a scare tactic I decided to let the facts speak for the themselves...

Each year on average, nearly five million Americans are bitten by dogs, and almost 50 percent of these are children bitten by the family dog. Of those injured, nearly 800,000 require treatment in a hospital, and dog-related injuries resulted in over 30 deaths in 2010 alone. It’s time for everyone to take responsibility for these tragic incidents and learn how they can help prevent dog bites.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) sponsors an annual National Dog Bite Prevention Week to raise awareness about the millions of dog bites that occur and help people understand that many can easily be prevented. Some basic things to know include:  If a dog is approaching you, don’t turn and run, as dogs naturally love to chase and catch things. Always stand still, with your hands at your sides. In most cases, the dog will go away when he determines you are not a threat. Don’t put your hand out; just allow the dog to approach you to sniff you. Don’t scream. Face the dog at all times, but avoid eye contact. When possible, back away slowly, watching the dog from the corner of your eye, until the dog is out of sight.

To help children avoid dog bites, keep these tips in mind:  Kids should also never stare into a dog's eyes, tease a dog, approach a dog that is tied up or off-leash, run or scream if approached by a loose dog, or touch a dog while it is eating or sleeping. If a loose dog comes close, children should stand very still and be very quiet. Always ask a dog's owner for permission to pet it and let the dog sniff to see if it’s interested in ‘making friends’.

Greg Kleva, Bark Busters Dog Behavioral Therapist and host of ‘It’s A Dog’s Life’ on Sirius XM is offering dog safety seminars for community organizations. These community seminars will give participants dog safety and bite prevention tips while helping them understand how to communicate more effectively with dogs—strange or familiar—by using voice control and body language. Any community-based organization interested in scheduling a seminar can contact Greg Kleva directly at 201-207-6190 or bergenconj@barkbusters.com.