An encounter with an unfamiliar dog often results in positive experiences when the pet is friendly. However, you could also end up in a dangerous situation if an aggressive dog doesn’t take your approach kindly. While certain breeds are known for being more aggressive than others, the truth is that any dog can bite. Using these strategies helps you stay safe when you are near a dog you haven’t met before.
Ask Permission Before Petting a New Dog
Although you might be eager to stroke that soft fur, some dogs instantly go into defensive mode when they encounter new people. As a general rule, the dog’s owner will know how they’re likely to respond to a new person’s attempt to pet them. Asking permission also allows the dog’s owner to take preventative actions such as shortening their leash to allow for more control if the encounter takes an unexpected turn. If someone says no, take their advice to heart and ask them how to proceed with moving past their pet safely.
Give Unfamiliar Dogs Plenty of Space
Similar to how people might feel when they get crowded in a public space, dogs also bristle when they don’t have room to move. Avoid cornering unfamiliar dogs who might feel like lashing out to get the space they crave. If you encounter a strange dog on the street that’s not with an owner, then you can choose to walk in a different direction. Alternatively, you might switch to a different side of the walking path if you see the dog is on a leash and under their human companion’s control.
Supervise Children Around Dogs
Even a familiar pet might grow frustrated around an excited child. When you add in a dog’s behavior that you don’t know, the situation can rapidly lead to a serious injury. If you encounter an unfamiliar dog while out in public, then take note of the situation and respond accordingly. Reminding your child not to approach a leashed dog without your and the owner’s permission can prevent them from rushing too fast to give them a pet. If a dog is off-leash and near your child, then consider picking them up as you move them to a safer location.
Stay Calm If a Dog Approaches
It’s common to experience a sudden urge to flee when an unfamiliar dog approaches, but you’ll want to stay calm. Typically, it’s best not to turn your back on a strange dog. Instead, stand facing toward them with your hands at your side. Try to avoid making direct eye contact that the dog might take as a sign of aggression. If possible, back away slowly while looking for the dog’s human. If the dog becomes aggressive, then do your best to put a barrier between you and their mouth.
Know How to Handle a Bite
Even a mild dog bite can turn into a raging infection that threatens your health. After a dog attacks, you’ll want to attend to your immediate medical needs. Cleansing the wound and seeking medical attention is important for stopping any bleeding and preventing infection. Once your health is stabilized, you’ll then want to reach out to a personal injury lawyer who can help you proceed with the next steps of filing your case.
Dog attacks can be brutal, but there are many ways to prevent a potentially dangerous situation from escalating. Keeping your distance, staying calm, and protecting nearby children all go a long way towards preventing bites. If an attack occurs, remember to stay as calm as possible to help you take the necessary steps to preserve your health and financial security.