How to Avoid a San Diego Dog Bite Attack
To some, dogs are considered man’s best friend. However, it is important to keep in mind that dogs are still animals, and a San Diego dog bite can occur with any canine. Even the friendliest dog, when startled, can attack.
A Sobering Look at the Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 4.7 million people are bitten each year in the U.S., and more than half are reported to be children. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says 50 percent of all children will be bitten before they turn 12 years old.
5 Ways You Can Avoid a Dog Bite
Fortunately, you can take certain safety precautions and teach your children to help avoid a dog attack. They include:
- Caution with babies: Babies and small children should never be left alone with a dog, even the family dog. They are virtually unable to defend themselves and call out if they are attacked.
- Running: You should never run past a dog. Again, they are animals and their first instinct is to chase you.
- Sleeping dogs: You should never disturb a sleeping dog. Many dog attacks result when a dog is startled or surprised.
- Strange dogs: Never approach a dog you do not know. Avoid dogs that are chained, tethered, and/or confined. Keep in mind that you know nothing about the dog’s history and temperament.
- If you feel threatened: Never scream or stare into a dogs eyes if threatened. Stay as motionless as possible until the dog is out of site.
Protecting your Child
As a parent, it is your responsibility to teach your child about dog safety. Besides the safety tips already mentioned, your child should be instructed to stay away from dogs they don’t know. They should also be taught that most dog attacks involving kids come from dogs they already know, including:
- The family pet.
- A friend’s dog.
- A Neighbor’s dog.
If a Serious Injury Occurs
Whether an adult or a child, a serious dog bite can have lasting effects. Besides the physical damage, including scarring, a dog attack can leave a victim with a lifetime of emotional problems. That is why you should call an experienced dog bite attorney if you or a loved one is attacked.
Building a successful dog bite injury case is not as easy, it seems. Keith J. Stone has helped countless dog bite victims seek the medical attention they deserve as well recover for their damages. His office has the knowledge and experience necessary to ensure your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you deserve.
If you or your child has been seriously injured in a dog attack, call San Diego dog bite attorney Keith J. Stone at (619) 531-2022 or 888-59-HELP-NOW. He will work hard to ensure the dog’s owner is held liable for your damages.
The San Diego-based Office of attorney Keith J. Stone serves the following areas in Southern California: