National Dog Bite Prevention Week

Posted by Aimee

May 16, 2010

Did you know that May 16-22 is National Dog Bit Prevention Week? Neither did we! That is, not until we got an email from the USPS. Now that we know, we are happy to spread the word. They are working hard to help spread that word about how to prevent dog bites. Here are the tips and stats that they sent us:

Nearly 2,900 letter carriers were bitten by dogs last year, yet that pales in comparison to the 4.7 million Americans needlessly victimized by dog bites each year. Sadly, the majority of victims are children.

How to Avoid Being Bitten

Don’t run past a dog. The dog’s natural instinct is to chase and catch prey.
If a dog threatens you, don’t scream. Avoid eye contact. Try to remain motionless until the dog leaves, then back away slowly until the dog is out of sight.
Don’t approach a strange dog, especially one that’s tethered or confined.
While letter carriers are discouraged from petting animals, people who choose to pet dogs should always let a dog see and sniff them before petting the animal.
If you believe a dog is about to attack you, try to place something between yourself and the dog, such as a backpack or a bicycle.

How to Be a Responsible Dog Owner

Obedience training can teach dogs proper behavior and help owners control their dogs.
When a carrier comes to your home, keep your dog inside, away from the door in another room.
Don’t let your child take mail from the carrier in the presence of your dog. Your dog’s instinct is to protect the family.
Spay or neuter your dog. Neutered dogs are less likely to bite.
Dogs that receive little attention or handling, or are left tied up for long periods of time, frequently turn into biters.

For more information visit the USPS.