Things to Remember to Avoid Dog Bites

It is never a laughing matter if you are bitten by an animal, especially if the animal is wild and could be a carrier of rabies. Among animal bites, dogs are the most common causes of dog bites in California and in many other states in the country. For one, dogs greatly outnumber other animals found living among the general public. Also, they are mostly domesticated and both dogs and people are accustomed to one another and both don’t see each other as threats. Hence, the number of intentional and accidental bites are easily attributable to man’s best friend.

In order to avoid becoming one of the statistics of dog bite cases, here are some of the things that you should remember when in the presence of a dog:
1. Let the dog see you first and/or sniff you before petting it. Dogs sometimes bite when they get surprised.
2. Don’t approach a dog that you don’t know or recognize.
3. Don’t disturb a dog when the dog is eating or sleeping. Again, you might startle the dog and get bitten accidentally.

If you found yourself in a place where there is a strange dog or a dog unfamiliar to you and you think that he may attack, don’t forget to do the following:
1. Never turn your back to a dog or run. Dog’s usual instinct is to give chase.
2. Avoid eye contact with the dog.
3. Refrain from sudden movements.
4. When the dog loses its interest or turn away, slowly step away from the dog.

Sometimes, even if you are very careful, you may still get bitten by a dog. If you are attacked by a dog, bear in mind to do the following things which could easily save your life or avoid being seriously hurt.
1. If the dog attacks, shove your jacket, bag or anything within the area that could separate you from the force of the bite of the dog; and
2. If you get knocked over, curl yourself in a ball and cover your ears and face with your hands and remain still. Thrashing or screaming will only provoke the dog.

If you get bitten by a dog, either accidentally or intentionally, immediately call 911, go to your doctor for evaluation and treatments and don’t forget to secure the services of an experienced dog bite lawyer in your area.
For more information about Dog Bite and other animal attack injury case, visit our Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorneys.