Proper Training is Key to Preventing Dog Bites

By Jen Scherer, Daily News staff writer
 

Even the cutest pups can bare their teeth, and officials say this time of year can be particularly bad for animal bites.

That's why Rock County Humane Society Executive Director Chris Konetski said people must remember to use caution when encountering strange dogs and take precautions with their own animals.

“This is a bad time of year (for animal bites),” Konetski said. “The reason for that is unaltered animals are in breeding season. And because their hormones are raging, they're not acting normal.”

Also, the animals are moving a lot.

“Strange cats and strange dogs are in strange areas just because they're responding to the call of nature,” Konetski said. “And as the weather warms up, that inspires a lot more movement in the animals anyway.”

People are also outside with their animals for longer periods and among other people more so than during the winter.

Konetski said people walking their dogs should use a leash no more than 6 feet long. When approaching other people or animals they should shorten the leash to prevent possible conflict.

People need to be responsible with their pets and know where they are at all times. If a dog is “uncertain” around other animals or children, it should not be left unattended in the backyard where animals and children could pass by.

Konetski said one of the more common mistakes people make with their dogs is neglecting to train them.

“Animals have to be trained as to what good behavior is,” Konetski said. “So an animal that lacks training may become aggressive around its own food or toys, or may not respond well to strangers. Animals have to be taught what proper behavior is.”

Konetski said a good pet owner will teach their dog some limits.

“A good dog is made, it's not born,” Konetski said.

Eliminating the hormone issues is another thing a responsible pet owner would do. Konetski said having animals altered results in a less territorial or aggressive dog.

The Rock County Humane Society hosts obedience classes, and Konetski said there are a number of other organizations and facilities in the area that do so as well. She suggested people call their veterinarian or the facility where they board their pet for information about possible classes, or call the humane society for assistance.

There are also steps people can take to avoid being bitten. (See sidebar). Konetski said if people are approached by a strange dog they should never run, because “when you run, you're prey.”

She acknowledged it can be hard to quell the instinct to flee. However, if a dog is approaching in a threatening manner, a better reaction is to ignore the animal and even turn to the side. Every movement should be slow and cautious.

“Never look an animal directly in the eye,” Konetski said. “Do the best you can to quietly and passively ignore the animal.”

Rock County Humane Society Executive Director Chris Konetski provided the following tips for preventing a dog bite:

Always ask permission to pet a dog and let the dog sniff the back of your hand before petting it.

• Don't reach over the top of a dog's head when petting it. Scratch under its chin or on the side of the head.
   

• Never approach an unfamiliar dog.
   

• Never run from or scream at a dog.
   

• If a dog growls at you or chases you, stand still and stay quiet. The dog will probably sniff you and go away. If the dog knocks you over, roll into a ball and stay still.
   

• Don't look a dog straight in the eye.
   

• Don't disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.
   

• Report all stray dogs.