Dealing with Aggressive Dogs – Part Two

When dealing with an aggressive or strange dog, using the proper body language and exercising a healthy dose of caution is essential. By understanding how dogs think and communicate, you can reduce the risk of provoking a dog attack.

However, sometimes even precautionary behavior cannot stave off a dog attack. If you are faced with an attacking dog, learning to deal with the situation can help you avoid serious injury or even death.

Surviving an Attack

To begin with, remember that running away is a bad idea. Dogs are predators, programmed by nature to chase down fleeing prey; running from the dog will only trigger this basic hunting instinct. You can’t outrun a dog either, so don’t bother trying. If a dog appears ready to attack, back away slowly and avoid eye contact.

If the dog does attack, and you have something close at hand, like a stick, bag, or book, hold it out in front of you so that the dog bites the object and not you. Once he does, don’t let go of the object. If you do, the dog will quickly realize that the object is not you and resume the attack. Hold on to the object until the dog either calms or you find a suitable avenue of escape. If, on the other hand, the dog knocks you down, curl into a fetal position and cover your face with your arms. This makes you appear less threatening and helps protect your vital areas.

Always be careful when approaching a dog. Most pet owners are responsible and will control their pets, but never assume. All it takes is a moment of negligence for the situation to get out of hand.

For more information on aggressive dogs and dealing with the aftermath of a dog attack, get in touch with a Stevens Point dog bite lawyer from Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C., by calling 715-345-0004 right away.