A dog attack can happen when you least expect it. Every year, thousands of individuals in Texas end up visiting emergency rooms due to dog bite injuries. Texas is often number one in the country in terms of annual fatal dog bite incidents. Learn what tips and tricks you can use when encountering a dog to help minimize the odds of getting hurt. If you were injured in an accident, make sure to speak with a dog bite injury lawyer in Fort Worth.
Don’t Pet Without Asking
Not all dogs are friendly with strangers. Some may react negatively to being approached, especially if the dog gets startled or feels protective over its owner. If you wish to pet or approach a dog, always ask the owner first. Then, approach cautiously and avoid reaching straight for the dog’s head. Allow the dog to sniff the back of your hand and see how it reacts before touching it.
Know When to Stay Away
Even a dog that is typically friendly with people can turn aggressive under the wrong circumstances. As a general rule, you should not approach or try to touch a dog that is eating, playing with a chew toy, sleeping or with its puppies. These are times when a dog is most likely to lash out or be triggered into an attack.
Teach Children How to Safely Interact With Dogs
Many fatal dog attacks involve young children. Teach children in your care the appropriate way to interact with dogs for their safety. This includes never approaching a dog the child doesn’t know, not running toward a dog, avoiding dogs in potentially dangerous situations, and the proper way to pet a dog without hurting or scaring the animal. Never leave a child unsupervised with a dog.
Recognize Warning Signs
Learn how to read a dog’s behaviors so that you can determine when it is safe to approach the pet vs. when you should keep your distance. The following traits are red flags that the dog may become defensive or attack:
- Growling
- Bared teeth
- Rigid body
- Tucked tail
- Intense staring
- Raised hackles (fur on the back or neck)
- Pinned back ears
- Cowering
Understanding a dog’s body language is key to recognizing when they may feel threatened, scared, protective or uncomfortable. If your presence seems to trigger negative emotions in a dog, keep your distance.
Don’t Attempt to Run Away
If a dog appears poised to attack, do not run away. While it may seem counterintuitive, the best thing you can do is remain still. Turning and running is likely to trigger the dog into chasing you and attacking. Instead, stand still, avoid eye contact, use a firm voice to command the dog and slowly walk backward away from the animal.
Learn How to Avoid Major Injuries in an Attack
If a dog in Texas does attack you, do your best to minimize the damage done. Try to put anything between you and the dog, such as a jacket or bag. Throw a piece of clothing or blanket over the dog, if available. If you get knocked down, curl into a ball and protect your face and neck with your hands. Shout so that someone is alerted and can call for help.
Know What to Do if a Dog Bites You
Dog attacks can occur despite taking all of the right steps to prevent them. If you get bitten or hurt by a dog in Texas, ensure your safety by distancing yourself from the dog. Examine your injuries and seek professional medical attention if they appear serious. You may need stitches, surgeries or shots to prevent infection. Report the incident to your local animal control authority.
To seek financial compensation for a dog bite injury in Texas and your related bills, consult with an attorney with experience in this practice area. Schedule a free consultation at Hill Law Firm Accident & Injury Lawyers to get started with a dog bite injury claim.