Safety Tips For A Dog Attack

A Brevard County woman narrowly escaped being attacked by two dogs recently. Police say that the woman was exiting her car when the dogs ran up to her, growling and foaming at the mouth. Fortunately she was able to close her car door before she was bitten.

Thankfully the woman was able to take shelter in her vehicle, but what if that's not a possibility?

• If a loose dog approaches you, stand completely still. Keep your hands at your sides and try to stay calm and quiet. 
• Do not make eye contact with the dog. 
• If you have been knocked to the ground, curl up into a ball. Keep your knees to your chest and your hands over your ears. Keep your face as close to your knees as possible. Again, try to remain calm. 
• Make very slow movements and don't run. This may excite them. 

There are steps dog owners can take to reduce the chance of an attack:

• Studies have proven that spaying or neutering your dog reduces aggression. 
•  Never slap, hit, or hurt a dog.
• Speak to your dog in a calm voice. If you feel yourself getting frustrated, take a time out. 
• Don't bother a dog when it is eating, or chewing a bone. 
• Never leave a child unattended with a dog. 88 percent of fatal dog attacks among two year olds happened when the child was left unsupervised with the dog. 
• 24 percent of fatal dog attacks involved a loose dog that was off their owner's property.
• Obey leash laws. You will be protecting your community and dog by doing so. 
• Do not chain your dog. Chained dogs are almost 3 times more likely to bite. Chaining a dog increases their stress, vulnerability, and protectiveness. Fencing is a safer, better solution. 

For more information on how to reduce your dogs aggression, visit www.americanhumane.org. If you have been attacked by a dog, contact Florida Animal Attack Attorney Jeffrey Sexton at (407) 293-1144.