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Each year, on average, nearly five million Americans are bitten by dogs—and almost 50% of these are children bitten by their family dog. Of those injured, nearly
"We understand that dog bites are a serious matter, and we believe that more public education, such as the free community seminars, can help prevent situations that can lead to dog bites," he said.
How to Stay Safe When a Dog Approaches
- Don’t turn and run—dogs naturally love to chase and catch things.
- Stand still, with your hands at your sides. In most cases, the dog will go away when it determines you are not a threat.
- Don’t put your hand out—just allow the dog to approach you to sniff you.
- Don't scream. If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly.
- Face the dog at all times, but don’t stare. Avoid eye contact.
- When possible, back away slowly, watching the dog from the corner of your eye, until the dog is out of sight.
Safety Tips for Parents
- Never leave a young child or baby alone with any dog.
- Never allow your young child to discipline a dog.
- Never allow your child to feed or walk a dog unsupervised.
- Never allow your child to pull on a dog’s collar, ears or tail.
- Never allow your child to play aggressive games (like wrestling) with any dog.
- Never allow your child to pet a dog that is in someone else’s car or truck.
As part of its ongoing commitment to keep pets and people safe, Bark Busters, the world’s largest dog training company, will give free dog safety seminars for community based organizations.
Additionally, Bark Busters is offering the Bach & Buster Buddy Dog Safety Program™, a unique online public service program designed to help educate children about dog safety and bite prevention. These free community-based programs are part of a nationwide effort by Bark Busters dog trainers across the country in support of National Dog Bite Prevention Week.
Free Online Dog Safety Program for Children
Developed specifically for school-age children, the Bach & Buster Buddy Dog Safety Program provides fun, interactive dog safety activities online. Bark Busters wants to educate children and adults on how to stop dog bites before they happen by making the right decisions around familiar and unfamiliar dogs. Through the Bach & Buster Buddy Dog Safety Program, kids can learn what to do and what not to do around dogs in order to prevent dog bites across the nation. To participate in the Bach & Buster Buddy Dog Safety Program, visit: www.BarkBustersBuddy.com.
For more extensive information on bite prevention—including specific safety tips for parents and children—visit www.BarkBusters.com. To request a Bark Busters trainer to speak to your community-based organization, call 877.500.BARK (2275) or visit
www.BarkBusters.com.
About Bark Busters:
Bark Busters, the world's largest, most trusted dog training company, started in Australia in 1989. Since inception, more than 500,000 dogs have been trained worldwide using its dog-friendly, natural methods. Bark Busters is continuing its mission to enhance responsible dog ownership and reduce the possibility of maltreatment, abandonment and euthanasia of companion dogs. SPCA International selected Bark Busters dog behavioral training services as the “Best of the Best.” Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com, where dog owners
can complete a Dog Behavioral Quiz to rate their dogs' behavior.
