National Dog Bite Prevention Week is May 15—21, and in light of California ranking first in dog bite claims with State Farm, please allow me to share these dog bite prevention tips:
Always spay or neuter. Unaltered dogs tend to be more territorial and more aggressive, which makes them three times more likely to bite. For the nearest low-cost spay/neuter clinics, call 1-800-248-SPAY.
Never chain or cage dogs. Lack of socialization and inability to escape perceived threats make chained dogs nearly three times more likely to attack than dogs who are not tethered.
Report cruelty to animals immediately. Dogfighters and people using dogs as “guard dogs” often beat, starve, and taunt dogs, which can make them aggressive.
Never leave animals and children unattended together. Both can be unpredictable, and even the most docile dog may bite if a child pulls the animal’s tail or startles the dog awake.
Treat dogs as part of the family–it’s the best way to have a safe, friendly, and well-adjusted canine companion.
To learn more, visit PETA.org.
Lindsay Pollard-Post
The PETA Foundation
