What to do in a dog attack and bitten by a dog?

According to the CDC, approximately 5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year. Of these, about 850,000 bites require medical attention, and about 20 to 30 deaths occur annually as a result of dog attacks. Children are more likely to be bitten than adults, with the highest incidence occurring among children ages 5 to 9 years old.

The breeds of dogs involved in attacks and fatalities vary depending on the source and location. The CDC states that any breed of dog can bite and cause serious injury, and it’s not a good idea to make generalization about a certain breed.

It’s important to note that these statistics may not fully capture the scope of the problem, as many dog bites go unreported. Additionally, not all dog bites result in physical injury; some may cause emotional trauma or fear of dogs.

Dog attacks can be a traumatic and frightening experience for both adults and children. Even the friendliest dog can attack without warning, and the resulting injuries can be serious or even life-threatening. If you or someone you know has been bitten or attacked by a dog, it’s important to take immediate action to ensure your safety and well-being.

Why Do Dogs Attack?

Dogs can attack for a variety of reasons, including fear, territoriality, possessiveness, and a lack of proper training and socialization. Here are a few common reasons why dogs may attack:

1. Fear: If a dog feels threatened or scared, it may attack in self-defense. Dogs that have been abused or mistreated may also be more likely to attack out of fear.
2. Territoriality: Dogs are naturally territorial and may attack to defend their home, yard, or other areas they consider to be their territory.
3. Possessiveness: Some dogs may become possessive of their food, toys, or other objects and may attack if they feel their possessions are being threatened.
4. Lack of socialization: Dogs that have not been properly socialized may be more likely to attack because they have not learned how to interact appropriately with people and other animals.
5. Lack of proper training: Dogs that have not been trained to obey commands or are not well-behaved may be more likely to attack because they lack the discipline and control necessary to behave appropriately in certain situations.
6. Illness or injury: Some dogs may become aggressive due to a medical condition or injury that causes them to be in pain or discomfort.

It’s important to note that even well-trained and well-behaved dogs can attack under certain circumstances, such as if they feel threatened or are protecting their owners.

What to do in a dog attack?

If you are faced with a dog attack, it is important to remain calm and try to defuse the situation. Here are a few steps you can take:

1. Avoid direct eye contact with the dog, as this can be perceived as a threat.
2. Try to remain still and avoid running or screaming, as this can trigger the dog’s chase instincts.
3. If the dog approaches you, try to put something between yourself and the dog, such as a bag or a jacket.
4. If the dog makes contact, try to “feed” it your jacket or a purse, anything you have on hand, and slowly back away.
5. If the dog knocks you down, curl into a ball and protect your face and head with your hands and arms.
6. Do not try to fight back or hit the dog, as this can escalate the situation.
7. If the dog runs away, do not chase after it.

Remember that the best defense against a dog attack is prevention. Avoid unfamiliar dogs, especially those that are tethered or confined, and be aware of your surroundings when walking or jogging in areas where dogs may be present.

In case of a serious injury or severe attack, it is important to seek medical attention immediately, and report the incident to the local authorities.

Read more: Dogs Attack Statistics by Breed

What to do if you are bitten by a dog?

If you are bitten by a dog, it is important to take immediate action to prevent infection and seek medical attention. Here are a few steps you should take:

1. Clean the wound: Gently clean the bite wound with soap and water. Running water is best, if possible.
2. Apply pressure: Apply firm pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage to stop any bleeding.
3. Seek medical attention: If the wound is deep or you are concerned that it may be infected, seek medical attention as soon as possible. A doctor will be able to clean the wound, administer antibiotics if necessary, and monitor for signs of infection.
4. Report the bite: Report the bite to the local authorities, animal control or police department, even if the bite seems minor. They will be able to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of others and to check the dog for diseases or potential danger.
5. Get information about the dog: Get the dog’s owner information if possible and the dog vaccination status. If the dog is stray, try to get a description of the dog and it’s location.
6. Take pictures: If possible, take pictures of the bite and the wound, it will be helpful for medical treatment and for any legal action.

It’s important to remember that even minor dog bites can become infected and lead to serious complications if left untreated. And it’s always best to be cautious and take the necessary steps to prevent any issues from arising.

In summary, a dog attack can be a scary and dangerous experience. If you or someone you know has been bitten or attacked by a dog, the most important thing is to get to safety and seek medical attention right away. Report the attack to the appropriate authorities, and take care of yourself emotionally in the aftermath of the attack. By taking these steps, you can help to ensure your safety and well-being in the wake of a dog attack.

Read more articles:

• Top most dangerous dogs in the world (with cnologists comments)
• Appearance is deceptive: top most aggressive dog breeds