Did you know there is a day set aside each year to bring awareness to a dog bite? Here are some tips to help you not be a statistic when it comes to being bitten by a dog.

A little respect goes a long ways when it comes to respecting  a dog. Start by being polite and respecting the dog’s personal space. Never approach an unfamiliar dog, especially one who’s tied or confined behind a fence or in a car. Don’t pet a dog—even your own—without letting them see and sniff you first.

Don’t disturb a dog while they are 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 a threat. Often times a dog can be scared and think that it needs to defend itself, when it does not. Assume that the dog does not know who you are.

Put a safe amount of space between yourself and a dog if you see these signals from a dog:

• tensed body
• stiff tail
• pulled back head and/or ears
• furrowed brow
• eyes rolled so the whites are visible
• yawning
• flicking tongue
• intense stare
• backing away

When putting space between yourself and a dog who might bite, never turn your back on them and run away. A dog’s natural instinct will be to chase you. If you have ever been chased by a dog, you do know that it is not a pleasant experience.

Most importantly, be aware of your surroundings anytime you are around a dog that is not familiar with you. If you think the dog is going to attack, it’s best to not run. By running you will have the opportunity to make the situation worse than it already is. Should the dog attack, fall onto the ground and put your hands over your head.

A little safety and precautionary action, may keep you free of a dog bite. If you are bitten by a dog, be sure to contact local law enforcement and they can get you in contact with the proper people in your community.

We hope you are never bitten by a dog, as we are huge lovers of dogs! Be smart and keep your eyes open when you are around a new dog.

If you are in need of a pet sitter for an hour or a few days, give us a call at 321-794-4477 and we will be happy to help.