According to a CDC May 2015 report, Approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the United States. Approximately 42 percent of all dog bite fatalities in 2016 occurred while the victim was either visiting the property or temporarily living at the property with the dog responsible for the attack.

In 2016, 32% of attacks resulting in death involved a dog or person new to a household (0-2 month period). The statistics are frightening, especially when you consider that at least 42 percent of the victims are children. However, there are steps you can take, both as a dog owner and a parent to minimize the risk. Most dog bites are preventable if you take these necessary precautions:

• Learn what breeds of dogs are the best fit for your particular needs (household children, other animals, apartment living, work schedule, allergies, etc)
• Find out as much of the dog’s history as possible to see if there’s any aggression
• Observe your child’s response to a dog. Do not force a dog on a child if the child appears fearful or apprehensive.
• Do not rush into buying or adopting a dog without first spending time with the dog.
• Reduce aggressive tendencies by spaying/neutering your dog
• Do not leave a dog alone with an infant or young child.
• Do not roughhouse with your dog or play aggressive games.
• Socialize and train your dog.
• Teach kids proper pet etiquette.
• Do not approach a dog you do not know.
• If a strange dog approaches you, do not run or scream. Be still and do not move.
• Avoid direct eye contact with a dog.
• Let a dog smell you, before letting it smell you.
• Do not pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.
• Respect dogs. Do not disturb a dog if it is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.
• If a dog appears suspicious in any way, tell an adult or professional.
• Report stray dogs.
• Take all bites seriously and seek the help of an adult or professional immediately after a bite.
• Keep your dog on leash whenever you are leaving the house, alternatively, use a carrier or cage.
• Make sure all of your family members and pets remain current on their vaccinations.

Become familiar with the laws concerning animal bites and vaccinations in your state. If you believe that your dog or cat has bitten a person or other animal, the animal should be quarantined and treated by a veterinarian for a couple of weeks. Contact your veterinarian or health department to determine the quarantine location and isolation requirements. It is the law.