How to protect yourself from dog bites
Here is how you can ensure that you are safe around dogs.
Over the weekend, South Africans were shocked to see a video of a three-year-old boy who was mauled to death by a pit bull in the Free State.
In November, an eight-year-old boy was also mauled to death by a neighbour's pit bull in Bloemfontein.
READ: Bloemfontein toddler mauled to death in another pit bull attack
These are just but a few cases. It is reported that pit bulls make up only 6% of the dog population, but they’re responsible for 68% of dog attacks and 52% of dog-related deaths since 1982.
However, according to an ASPCA report, "a well-socialized and well-trained pit bull is one of the most delightful, intelligent, and gentle dogs imaginable.”
Dogbite has shed light on what to do to stay safe when you come across a dog:
- Do not pet a dog without first letting it see you, even when you know the dog!
- Do not lean your face close to a dog.
- Never approach an unfamiliar dog. If the dog wants contact with you, it will approach you in a friendly manner.
- Do not tease a dog, especially a chained or tethered dog.
- Do not startle a sleeping dog.
- Do not play aggressive games with your dog.
- Do not bother a dog that is eating.
- Do not disturb a dog that is caring for puppies.
- Do not turn your back on a dog and run away.
CDC reports that nearly one in five people bitten by a dog requires medical attention.
This is why it is important to know what to do when you think you might be at risk of being bitten by a dog.
The website reports that:
- Don’t approach an unfamiliar dog.
- Don’t run from a dog.
- Don’t panic or make loud noises.
- Don’t disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.
- Don’t pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.
- Don’t encourage your dog to play aggressively.
- Don’t let small children play with a dog unsupervised.
If you are under attack:
- Put your purse, bag, or jacket between you and the dog.
- If you are knocked down, curl into a ball with your head tucked in and your hands over your ears and neck.
- Wash wounds with soap and water or seek medical attention.
READ: NSPCA calls for introduction of permits to own pit bull as pets
Image courtesy of iStock/ @GabyCalvo