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K-STATE
VETERINARIANS OFFER TIPS ON PREVENTING DOG BITES
MANHATTAN
-- A Kansas State University veterinarian says there are a number
of things dog owners can do to keep their dog from biting someone.
Starting
when the dog is brought home as a puppy, it should have kind treatment,
consistent obedience training and plenty of exercise. Those actions
should result in a well-adjusted pet.
Owners
should spend plenty of time with their pets. Dogs left alone in
the backyard or chained to a post are more likely to become problems
for their owners and others.
Here
are some tips on how to prevent dog bites:
1.
DO get obedience training for your dog. Your dog should be willing
to please you and consistently respond correctly to commands.
2.
DO learn how to bring out the best in your dog using positive reinforcement
training methods.
3.
DON'T use physical punishment for inappropriate behavior.
4.
DON'T rough-house or play tug of war games.
5.
DO learn to read your dog's body language.
6.
DON'T allow your dog to run off leash without supervision.
7.
DON'T allow your puppy to "chew" on your hands or arms.
8.
DO seek professional advice from your veterinarian if you have concerns
about your dog's behavior.
9.
DO get a rabies vaccination for your dog as recommended by your
veterinarian.
10.
DO be aware that your dog's demeanor may change with illness or
pain and exercise caution when approaching.
11.
DON'T attempt to pet a dog that is a) behind a fence; b) tied with
a rope or chain; c) in a parked car.
12.
DO discourage people from petting your dog in the situations listed
above even if your dog knows the person.
13.
DO determine laws regarding dangerous dogs in your city or county.
Specific behaviors that warrant the label of "dangerous"
may vary.
14.
DON'T try to intervene when two dogs are fighting.
15.
DO prevent dog-to-dog aggression by watching for behavior that precedes
aggression such as staring at each other.
16.
DON'T approach stray dogs.
17.
DO, if a dog approaches you, stand still with hands at side and
feet together, or lay on the ground with knees tucked to chest with
a fist over each ear. Remain very still and quiet.
18.
DON'T stare at a dog (do avoid eye contact).
19.
DO construct outdoor kennels sturdy enough to keep your dog in and
other dogs/animals out.
Updated
July 2005
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