Dogs are a man’s best friend. That’s why there are nearly 80 million dogs in America. Every dog is different, and with hundreds of breeds, that leaves room for diversity. They’re cute, cuddly, playful, but some are aggressive. Certain situations can spark that aggressiveness and lead that dog to bite.

Approximately 4.5 million dog bites happen each year, some worse than others. Over a quarter of the victims are seen in the ER for their injuries. In 2017, dog bites caused 39 deaths in America. Medical treatment is necessary because dog bites can cause infections like tetanus or rabies. Their teeth can tear through your skin and go as deep as muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and bones.

Reasons Dogs Bite:

1. Fear
2. Possessiveness of owner
3. They’re in pain
4. Maternal Instincts

If you’re a dog owner, it helps to play with your dog daily to promote human interaction. Train your dog well; discipline and redirect your dog’s actions. Keep your dog on a leash to prevent free-roam. In case of an incident, always make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.

How to Prevent Dog Bites:

• Always allow a dog to sniff your hand and get familiar with you before attempting to pet him/her.
• Introduce your dog to other pets (and their owners) by keeping your dog on a leash, at a distance, while they get familiar with each other.
• Don’t bother a dog that is eating, sleeping or caring for its puppies.
• Don’t approach an unfamiliar dog.
• Don’t encourage aggressive behavior while your puppy ages.
• Remain calm and don’t run or make loud noises around an unfamiliar dog.
• If a dog gets aggressive and knocks you over, roll into a ball and remain calm, covering your ears and neck.
• If your dog is generally aggressive, try giving him/her Valerian Root for pets. It’s an herb in tincture form that will ease anxious behavior in your pup.

Dog bites cause a good fraction of homeowners claims, and cost insurance companies hundreds of millions of dollars every year.

 By: KayLynn