How can my family and I avoid being bitten? Be cautious around strange dogs and treat your own pet with respect. Because children are the most frequent victims of dog bites, parents and caregivers should: NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog. Be on the lookout for potentially dangerous situations. Start teaching young children - including toddlers - to be careful around pets. Children must be taught NOT to approach strange dogs. Children should be taught to ask permission from a dog's owner before petting the dog. Other tips that may prevent or stop a dog attack: Don't run past a dog. Dogs naturally love to chase and catch things. Don't give them a reason to become excited or aggressive. Never disturb a dog that's caring for puppies, sleeping or eating. If a dog approaches to sniff you -stay still. In most cases, the dog will go away when it determines you're not a threat. If a dog threatens you, remain calm. Don't scream. If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly. Avoid eye contact. Try to stay still until the dog leaves, or back away slowly until the dog is out of sight. Don't turn and run. If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck. Protect your face. What should I do if my dog bites someone? Even if the bite can be explained (perhaps someone stepped on the dog's tail), it's important to take responsibility for your dog's actions by taking these steps: Restrain the dog immediately. Separate it from the scene of the attack. Confine it. Check on the victim's condition. Wash wounds with soap and water. Professional medical advice should be sought to evaluate the risk of rabies or other infections. Call 911 if paramedic response is required. Provide the following information to Animal Control as soon as possible: your name and address, and information about your dog's most recent rabies vaccination. State health laws require you to report a bite whether or not your dog is current on it's rabies vaccination. The dog will be quarantined for 10 days and it's health monitored. Quarantine often can be at your residence. Consult your veterinarian for advice about dog behavior that will help prevent similar problems in the future. IF YOU are the bite victim --treat wounds: If your own dog bit you, confine it immediately and call Animal Control at your local police dispatch. If someone else's dog bit you, contact authorities and tell them everything you can about the dog: the owner's name, if you know it; color of the dog; size; where you saw it; if you've seen it before. These details may help Animal Control Officers locate the dog. Dogs are wonderful companions. By acting responsibly, owners not only reduce the number of dog bites, but also enhance the relationships they have with their dogs. To learn more about the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership, contact your veterinarian or local veterinary association.