National Dog Bite Prevention Week

This week is National Dog Bite Prevention Week, a time when the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the U.S. Postal Service team up to educate people about dog safety.

According to the AVMA, 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs every year, with children as the most common victims. However, most bites happen with your own dog or a dog you already know.

But fear not—there are a number of things that you can do to avoid dog bites. It starts with properly training and socializing your dog as well as educating your children on how to approach a dog.

Beginning with when you adopt your dog, make sure to have it spayed or neutered and it will be less likely to bite. Train your dog basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “no,” and “come.” Use a leash in public to ensure you are able to control your dog.

Dogs usually bite when they feel fearful or insecure in a situation, according to the AVMA. If your dog is a puppy, slowly introducing it to novel situations is recommended. Avoid games like wrestling or tug-of-war where your dog could get over-excited and don't put your dog in a position where it feels threatened or teased. And because most dog bites occur with children, never leave small children or babies alone with a dog.

Tell your children not to approach strange dogs or try to pet dogs through fences. Dogs can feel territorial when someone approaches them on their turf. Teach children to ask permission from the dog's owner before petting the dog.

If you have children, you might want to watch this informative video, which has a demonstration on how to approach a strange dog, as well as this video that depicts dog body language to learn how to tell when a dog is fearful and likely to bite.

Pet of the Week

Meet Alex, a 3-year-old Chihuahua mix, who would love to come home with you and snuggle in your lap. If you’re looking for a dog to take with you everywhere, Alex could be your guy.

For more information about Alex and other dogs available for adoption, visit the Silicon Valley Animal Control Authority website.

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