Getting Started Week 43 - Child Safety Rules

Help prevent the estimated 800,000 dog bites each year in the United States that required medical attention - the majority of victims being children bitten in the face.  If you have children, review these rules with them on a regular basis.

[ Never approach an unfamiliar dog. If an adult with the dog says it's okay for the dog to approach you, offer the dog the back of your hand. Keep your hand low and allow the dog to sniff it. Avoid direct eye contact. Turn your body slightly to the side. Be relaxed not stiff and tense.  If possible, ask the dog to "sit" before you pet it.

[ Never run from a dog or wave your arms or hands around and shriek or scream - even in fun.  When dogs get highly aroused they may become too rough and grab with their teeth.

[ Do not disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.  You should not startle or surprise the dog.

[ If knocked over by a dog, Be still and quiet. Roll up like a rock with your face down and hands covering your neck.  If not knocked over, look away and be relaxed and still.  Take deep, relaxed breaths.

Never leave a small child and a dog unsupervised. It only takes a second for a mistake to result in serious damage.