Most of us at some point in our lives fall for furry ears, wet slobbery kisses and wagging tails. Being a responsible pet owner requires that you socialize your pet. It is best to gradually expose your dog to friends and family. This will help teach your pet that people are to be trusted and not feared. Even with the best obedience and training, a dog may still bite. Most dog-bite victims occur in the home by a family pet rather than a stray dog. It is estimated that 2 to 4 million animal bites occur each year. Dog bites cause 80 to 85 percent of emergency room visits.


Identification

1. Know that even the cuddliest of dogs can bite. Many dogs bite their owners or someone that their owners know. A dog is very protective and may bite if she is caring for puppies, eating or sleeping. Some dogs bite and become aggressive because they have been taught to fight with other dogs. This can make the animal extremely dangerous to others. Children need to be taught how to play properly with a pet to reduce their chance of getting bitten. Kids don't understand that pulling on a puppy's tail or fur can be traumatizing to a dog. Many kids are victims of dog bites because they do not pick up on cues that the dog is frightened and is about to attack.

Significance

2. Puppies love to nip when they are playing with each other. They may playfully bite your fingers, toes, ears or nose. It is crucial that you teach your dog that this is unacceptable behavior. Allowing your puppy to nip at you may lead to serious injuries when it gets older. Those nips will no longer be adorable and will have become painful bites. The best way to stop nipping is to imitate a puppy's reaction when he is bitten too hard. Yelp. If this doesn't work, say no in a strong voice. When he nips, shake a can of coins or beans. This will startle your puppy and make him stop. Try giving your dog a time out for five minutes. Always give your puppy a toy or a bone to chew on so that he can resist the urge to bite humans.

Effects

3. A dog bite can be minor or serious. A minor wound from a family pet can be treated at home. Wash the wound thoroughly and gently with warm water and soap. A dog bite must be disinfected to prevent an infection. Apply pressure with a clean towel or cloth to stop bleeding. Apply an antibiotic ointment and a sterile bandage to the wound. Elevate the injury above the level of the heart to reduce inflammation and pain. If an infection occurs, antibiotics are needed to get rid of the infection. Most people recover fully from a dog bite. A severe wound that lacerates the head and face or any other area requires an emergency room visit. Most wounds are sutured to stop bleeding. If the bite is from a stray dog, then report it to the animal control office or to the police. They will test the animal for rabies. Those that were bitten by a potentially rabid animal should receive vaccinations to prevent rabies.

Considerations

4. Always stay away from a stray dog because it may be dangerous. Never attempt to give a stray dog a treat, food or toys even if it appears friendly. Do not try to pet the dog. If you are approached by a stray dog, there are certain things that you can do that may help prevent it from biting. The best advice is to stand still. Hold your arms at your side and tilt your chin slightly up. Do not look directly at the dog. Allow the dog to sniff you. He is trying to assess if you are a threat to him. Most dogs get bored and walk away. Keep the dog in your peripheral vision. Turn your body sideways. Do not face the dog. Take small steps away from the dog. Move slowly toward a safe place. Do not run past a stray dog. Dogs love to chase anything that moves. Running will make the dog excited and it may become more aggressive. Always teach your children how to act around stray dogs because they love to run up to strange animals.

Expert Insight

5. Dogs warn that they are about to attack by certain behavior. The dog will stand, growl loudly, bear its teeth and bark. If the dog attacks, try to place something between yourself and it. Things you can use include a backpack, jacket, purse or a bicycle. Use anything that can minimize the damage of a dog bite. Be aware that a dog will move very quickly as he attacks. Do not run. This will only encourage the dog to continue the attack. It is advised that you curl up in a ball on the ground. Curl your hands into fists and protect your ears with your fists. When the dog's attack ends, walk slowly to safety.