Man’s best friend can be a joy to have around your home. Dogs provide companionship, an ear when you need to talk, and a wet kiss when you need a laugh.
Sometimes, however, other people’s dogs can pose a problem. Be it from fear, an aggressive disposition, or a past filled with owner abuse, canines can strike out at innocent victims, leaving serious dog bite wounds.
A recent article from The Wall Street Journal describes some signs that indicate when a dog is about to bite or attack.
According to the piece, almost five million dog bites occur each year in the United States. Obvious signs of an impending dog attack include growling, barking, or flat ears.
Less obvious is that fact that a wagging tail doesn’t always mean the animal is happy. Many dogs still wag when they are upset or over-stimulated.
If a dog slightly lifts its lip to show you its teeth, back away. A curved tongue also means beware, while a flat tongue means the dog is relaxed.
Some dogs will slightly lift one front paw because it thinks something negative is about to happen.
If you—or worse, your child—are bitten, don’t try pulling the dog off. This will only make the wound deeper, as the dog will dig in and the flesh will tear as you pull. Instead, take a t-shirt or coat and put it over the dog’s head; if they can’t see, a dog will panic and open its mouth.
The article recommends taking dog treats whenever you are walking your own dog. If you see a dog that looks unfriendly approaching you and your own furry friend, you can throw the treats far away to distract them.
As a dog bite injury attorney in Southaven, Mississippi, I’ve seen the pain a bite can cause a victim, both physically and emotionally. Do all you can to avoid angry or scared-looking dogs, and keep children away from unfamiliar pets.
If you are ever in the unfortunate circumstance of having been bitten by a dog, contact an experienced animal attack attorney for help.
Leave a Reply