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Press Releases
May 12,
2005
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Michelle Pintar
Direct: (414) 431-6104
E-mail: mpintar@wihumane.org
No Dog's Bite
CAN Be Bigger than His Bark
MILWAUKEE
? Your 11-year-old child loves all dogs, especially
his pooch. Just recently Timmy wanted to play with
Snoopy, but the canine was busy chewing away at
a dog bone. Out of frustration, Timmy yanked the
bone out of Snoopy's mouth, only to be startled
that the pooch snarled then bit your lad's hand.
Can you
relate to this scenario? According to statistics
gathered by the Humane Society of the United States
, each year more than four million people in the
country are bitten by dogs, most victims being children
under the age of 13. During National Dog Bite Prevention
Week (May 15-21, 2005) the Wisconsin Humane Society
would like to remind parents to educate their children
about dog prevention tips.
· Never approach a loose dog that you do
not know; instead back away from him slowly. Do
NOT run because this will encourage the dog to chase
you.
· If you encounter someone walking their
dog, always ask permission before petting. If they
say it is okay, approach slowly and let their dog
sniff your hand (keep fingers tucked in your hand)
before petting the top of his head or his back.
· If a dog that you do not know approaches
you, stand still. Do not make eye contact with the
dog and try not to move. When they start to leave,
back away slowly.
· Do NOT approach a dog that is in a fenced
yard, on a chain or in a car. Dogs are often protective
of these spaces.
· Never try and remove something from a dog's
mouth. If your dog has something that you do not
want them to have, offer them a trade instead. For
example, if they have your favorite sweater, offer
them a toy. They will drop your sweater to play
with the toy.
· Do NOT approach a dog who is eating or
sleeping. Dogs are much more likely to bite when
frightened and some are very defensive of food.
For more information
about the Wisconsin Humane Society, call
(414) ANIMALS or visit www.wihumane.org
.
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