Services urges caution against dog bites
National Dog Bite Prevention Week

The school year is rapidly coming to end, and as result more children will be outside for fun and games. This is why Dallas Animal Services officials are urging residents to be cautious and learn how to prevent dog bites

The Dallas Animal Services Division investigates and quarantines approximately 2000 animal bites every year. The statistics reflect closely what Dallas Animal Services encounters. Children under 15 are the most common victims, making up approximately 70% of all dog bites. Young boys between ages of 5-9 are the most frequent victims.

According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children are at greater risk of injury and death from dog bites. Many children do not know how to behave around a dog.

But experts say the threat of dog bites can all but be eliminated through public awareness and education.

“Dog bites in children are preventable,” said Dallas Animal Services manager Kent Robertson. “They're furry and friendly, but even the cutest of dogs can be potentially dangerous if you're not careful. It’s very important that children learn safety around dogs.”

Tips to prevent dog bites:

• Never approach a dog you don’t know or a dog that is alone without its owner, especially if the dog is behind a fence, tied with a rope or chain, or in a parked car.
• Never approach a dog that is eating, sleeping, or guarding something.
• Dogs naturally guard their babies, food, bones, and toys.
• Never chase or tease dogs. Don’t poke, hit, pull, or pinch a dog.
• Always ask the owner’s permission before petting a dog.
• Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.
• If attacked, give the dog an object, such as a jacket or backpack to bite or chew on.

May 16-22 is National Dog Bite Prevention Week, and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the United States Postal Service, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are each working to educate Americans about dog bite prevention. This is a good time to learn how to protect kids from dog bites.

A person bitten or scratched by an animal should report the incident by calling 3-1-1. Dallas Animal Services will investigate the incident and quarantine the animal if the attack caused broken skin.
For more information on services provided by Dallas Animal Services call (214) 670-8826.

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