Tips for Keeping Kids Safe

Children are the most frequent victims or dog bites, but there are a number of precautions parents can take to keep their kids safe. Most importantly, start teaching young children, including toddlers, to be careful around pets. They should know to not hug or approach a dog from behind, touch his food bowl, pull parts of his body, stare directly into his eyes or try to kiss him on the face. Children should always ask permission from a dogs owner before touching or petting a dog. 

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Another important tip is to educate kids on what to do if they are threatened by a dog. Tell them to remain calm and do not scream. Speak calmly and firmly and avoid making eye contact with the dog. Try to stay still until the dog leaves or back away slowly until the dog is out of sight. Do not turn and run away. If the child falls or is knocked to the ground, tell them to curl into a ball with their hands over their head and neck, protecting their face.

© 2003 The Dog Bite Lawyer