Dog Safety for Children and Families - Parenting Tips

Every year, more than 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs, with more than half of all victims younger than age 14.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 150,000 children are injured seriously enough to require treatment in the emergency department. National Dog Bite Prevention Week is May 21-27. The AAP offers the following tips to help parents protect their children from being bitten:

Pick a good match. Consult your veterinarian for details about the behavior of different breeds.
Socialize your pet. Gradually expose your puppy to a variety of people and other animals.
Train your dog. Commands can build a bond of obedience and trust between man and dog.
Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.
Teach your child to ask the owner for permission to pet the dog. Let the dog sniff your child and have your child touch the dog gently.
Urge your child not to bother a dog if it is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.
Encourage your child not to run past a dog. If a dog threatens you, remain calm. Avoid eye contact.
Stand still or back away slowly until the dog leaves. If you are knocked down, curl into a ball and protect your face with your hands.

If a dog bites your child, clean small wounds with soap and water and seek medical attention for larger wounds. Also contact the dog's veterinarian and owner to check vaccination records.