Dog Bite Safety Tips For Children
Dog Bite Cases are some of the hardest cases to work on, especially when a cherished pet dog bites a child. According to the Centers for Disease and Control, 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year. One in five dog bites results in injuries that require medical attention. Unfortunately, children ages 5 to 9 years rate highest for dog bite related injuries.
As a personal injury attorney, I have had my share of unfortunate dog bite cases. In almost every case, it was the first time that the dog had bit a person. In almost every single case, the dog owner was suprised that the dog bit my client as the dog usually does not have a history of bites. (If the dog did have a history of biting-it is likely that dog would have already been uthenized).
The reason I am discussing this topic is because I am a Mom, and I know how protective I am of my child. Most parents don't know the dangers associated with dogs. Unfortunately, I see it all the time, for example, you are shopping at Home Depot or a mall, maybe in a park etc, parents let their little kids walk up to dogs and pet them. I cannot do that. I know first hand what a first bite can do. I've witnessed injuries that I still have a hard time thinking about. Many times, the dog is described as a "family dog that never bit anyone".
Please, to all of the Moms and Dads in America, be cautious with your children around dogs-even when the dog's owner tells you that the dog is great with kids and has never bit before. Don't let your child be the first victim.
The Centers for Disease and Control has provided safety tips specifcally for children to prevent children from being bitten by dogs. They are as follows:
Do not approach an unfamiliar dog.
Do not run from a dog or scream.
Remain motionless (e.g., "be still like a tree") when approached by an unfamiliar dog.
If knocked over by a dog, roll into a ball and lie still (e.g., "be still like a log").
Do not play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.
Immediately report stray dogs or dogs displaying unusual behavior to an adult.
Avoid direct eye contact with a dog.
Do not disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.
Do not pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.
If bitten, immediately report the bite to an adult.
I hope this article brings awareness to many families in Southwest Florida. I am not saying that kids should avoid dogs altogether-just be aware, cautious and use the tips above.
This blog was written by Amanda Downing, Esq. of The Dellutri Law Group, P.A. Ms. Downing is a Personal Injury Trial Attorney, and more importantly, a Mom.
