Many Louisiana families love dogs. Studies show that owning a dog has many benefits. However, there are many issues that can cause harm to you or a family member when petting or playing with a dog, whether it is your own family pet, or a dog that belongs to someone else.
Precautionary dog safety tips for your family include:
- Research the breed of the dog before you buy or adopt a dog. Your lifestyle and the time you have available needs to be matched to the right breed. Younger children will need a tame, gentle breed in the house.
- Puppies and children can be a dangerous combination. Both puppies and small children are extremely curious and may exceed safety boundaries without knowing a problem can occur.
- Do not allow children to walk larger dogs. Adult supervision is a must with all dogs and children.
- Allow a dog to eat and sleep without interruptions. A dog can be protective of food and may be aggressive if threatened, even if the threat is unintentional.
- Take warning signs seriously. If a dog is growling or on high alert, stay away. Educate your children to be aware that even dogs that are normally friendly can be aggressive if provoked.
- Never run from an angry dog; always walk calmly from the dog if possible.
- Do not approach strange dogs no matter how pleasant they seem.
- If an unknown dog is near you, allow the dog to sniff your hand. Keep your hand in a fist position, but lowered. This will enable you to determine the dog’s demeanor and help the dog decide you are not a threat.
Personal Injury Advocacy for Dog Bites
If you or a family member does suffer a severe dog bite or attack from another person’s dog, you need to enlist the help of Grand Law Firm in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, LA. Our personal injury lawyers will ensure you receive the settlement you are owed. Call today for a free consultation.