Dog Bite Prevention Week

Every year 5 million Americans are bitten by dogs.

This week marks Dog Bite Prevention Week, and a good reminder to be cautious when approaching dogs that are not yours.

Last year, the El Paso Environmental Services Department recorded 1,603 animal bites were recorded and 1,143 were dog bites.

Children are far more likely to be severely injured in an animal bite.

Officials say 400,000 children receive medical attention every year.

“Any dog will bite if provoked in the right circumstances. Socializing a dog from a very young age or from the time the dog goes into a new home is extremely critical in helping to reduce the dogs anxiety and fear that may cause it to bite,” said Betty Hoover, Executive Director of the Humane Society of El Paso.

Hoover said pit bulls, for example, have gotten a bad reputation when it comes to attacks, but it’s ‘Chihuahuas’ that are more likely to attack.

It is also important how one reacts if they are approached by an aggressive dog.

“Stand still like a tree, do not make eye contact, put your arms straight down at your side andlower your head. Remember,never make eye contact. Usually the dog will lose interest,” said Hoover.

Here are some tips that may be helpful:

– Teach children not to hug or kiss a dog on the face

– Teach kids to stand still, like a tree, if a strange dog approaches.

– Never tease a dog, disturb a dog when it is sleeping, eating or protecting something

– Supervise dogs and children at all times

– Take the dog to basic obedience classes where positive reinforcement is used