Did you know that each year in the United States, around 4.5 million people are attacked by dogs? In fact, because not all bites are reported, that number could be low. While many of these are minor bites, up to 800,000 require medical attention, with at least a few major instances reported each year. Some dog assaults become lethal. Others can result in severe injuries and/or disfigurement. While National Dog Bite Awareness Week is in April, the United States Postal Service has launched its own awareness campaign, which runs in June. Continue reading for information on dog bites from a local Bucks County, PA veterinarian.

Not all the news here is negative. Overall, dog bite cases have decreased in recent years. This could be due to a variety of causes, including stronger leash restrictions, the outcomes of spay/neuter awareness efforts, and an increasing understanding of how to care for Fido properly. It’s also good that the number of stray dogs is going down. There is still a long way to go, though.

Why Is The Post Office Increasing Awareness?

Postal workers are among the most common victims of dog bites. In fact, more than 5,300 postal workers reported dog attacks in 2022. The reason for this is simple: Many dogs regard postal workers as intruders.

There are a few things you can take to keep your canine companion from adding to the number of postal carrier attacks. 

First and foremost, always keep your dog secure.

While a fenced yard is ideal for Fido, it’s important to plan your landscaping so that visitors can safely access your front door or porch if your pooch is outside. (This also minimizes the chances of your pup getting away.)

If your dog is territorial and/or aggressive, you may need to take further precautions, such as receiving packages at a post office box. It may be inconvenient, but it pales in comparison to a the stress of a bite incident, not to mention the possibilities of a lawsuit.  

How Can I Keep Myself Safe from Dog Bites?

One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from dog bites is to avoid common misconceptions about them.

One big one concerning dogs is that they attack without notice. While dogs may appear to snap unexpectedly, this is highly uncommon. Fido usually sends out quite clear signals; it’s just that not everybody understands how to read them. It’s also wrong to think that just because Fido is small or cute, he won’t bite. The Chihuahua is an ideal example of a small but feisty dog.

That being stated, here are some tips:

  • Never rush or run by a dog.
  • Do not pet or interfere with a pooch that’s sleeping, eating, or nursing pups. Many dogs will almost instinctively respond defensively.
  • Don’t attempt to pet an unfamiliar dog.
  • If a strange dog approaches, remain still. Avoid eye contact.

How Do I Keep My Child Safe From Dog Bites?

Unfortunately, children make up an unusually large proportion of dog bite incidents. Man’s Best Buddy can be an excellent buddy and companion for children, but it is critical to exercise caution. There are a few things to consider here. Children’s small size is undoubtedly one factor. Many kids have naturally loud voices, which can startle and frighten Fido. Children also have a tendency to move quickly and can be, well, awkward. All of this is normal for tiny humans. Fido, on the other hand, does not always view things that way.

Teach your children the safety guidelines we have just discussed, and never leave your youngster alone with a dog. Also, teach children not to tease or pursue dogs, pet them through fences, approach loose dogs, or touch Fido’s toys or food. 

Why Do Dogs Bite So Much?

Dogs bite for a variety of reasons. In most cases, Fido is reacting to something.

Here are a few common instances.

  • They perceive a threat.
  • They are defending someone or something.
  • Fear.
  • They may be ill or injured.
  • They may become extremely enthusiastic while playing.
  • Prey Drive.
  • They could have a negative connotation with something or someone.

Other aspects to consider include breed, previous history, and socialization. There are no bad dogs in our book; that’s what we want to make clear. However, there are lots of bad owners, bad situations, and bad experiences, all of which can bring out the worst in our canine companions.

How Can I Keep My Own Dog from Biting People?

If your dog bites someone, you could find yourself in serious legal problems. You may also be held accountable for medical treatment. Your dog could also be taken or, in certain situations, euthanized. Then there’s the emotional distress such an incident could cause. Fortunately, modest precautions can go a long way here.

Choose Fido Wisely: This begins with selecting the correct dog. If you have small children, you should look for a gentle, peaceful puppy rather than one with anxiousness and a high prey drive.

Proper Training: Make sure Fido understands (and obeys) basic instructions like Sit, Stay, and Come.

Regular Veterinarian Care: When dogs are sick or hurt, they, like humans, become irritable. Ensure that your dog is up to date on checkups, immunizations, and parasite control by taking him to visit his Bucks County, PA vet regularly.

Security: Never let your canine companion run loose!

Don’t Skip Socialization: Proper socialization is very important to Fido’s personality. Consult your veterinarian for suggestions.

Fix Fido: Spaying and neutering are also beneficial. Unneutered males account for the vast majority of attacks.

Good Dog Care: Of course, there’s a lot to be said for just plain TLC. The more content Fido is, the better!

Talk to your vet about behavioral training if you know or believe your dog is aggressive or fearful.

How Do I Know When a Dog Is Going to Bite?

Dogs’ body language might be misleading for those who do not understand it. For example, we all know that growling is a severe red flag, and it is frequently the first warning before a dog strikes. However, many of the other indications are easy to miss. A wagging tail, for example, is frequently seen as a sign of a puppy’s happiness. However, this is only true when Fido wags his tail swiftly and is generally cheerful. A sluggish wag is frequently an indicator of uncertainty.

Here are the things to look for:

  • Growls
  • Showing the whites of the eyes
  • Raised hackles
  • Licking lips
  • Slow Tail Wags
  • Tucked tail
  • Bared teeth
  • Stiffness
  • Yawns
  • Barking than retreating
  • Aggressive body language/stance
  • Ears flattened
  • Staring

If you see any of these, back away slowly, avoiding eye contact.

Are Strays Dangerous?

Stray dogs account for roughly 15% of all reported bites. However, that doesn’t mean strays are always aggressive. Mostly, they are dogs who are in bad circumstances through no fault of their own. Many of our favorite patients were once stray animals who are now happy, cherished companions! We also feel that no dog should be left to fend for itself, and we are happy to help with rescue initiatives. That all said, it’s just necessary to be aware of a few things.

There are several reasons why stray animals are more inclined to bite. Many folks were not properly socialized and may be suspicious of strangers. Strays must battle to survive, and they can be fiercely protective of food and puppies. Finally, strays are not given veterinary treatment and are therefore at a significant risk of becoming ill or wounded. That, of course, will make them even more distrustful.

Make An Appointment At Our Bucks County, PA Pet Hospital

Is your pup due for an exam? Contact us, your Bucks County, PA pet hospital, today!