By Rebekah Tomlinson, Acushnet Animal Control Officer
Usually this time of year is quiet for animal bites, especially dogs.
I don’t know if it is because of the weather and dogs are not getting enough exercise, but I have been receiving bite reports from area hospitals and walk-in centers. Most of them involve a child bitten in the facial area. Nothing serious, but very odd for this time of year. Usually this type of behavior is more prevalent in the hotter months.
I would like to share some safety tips to animal owners.
A little bit of common sense goes a long way!
• If you have children teach them to obey the animals, give them space, don’t allow them to crawl on them and pull their tales or ears.
• If your animal is sleeping, do not approach him in close proximity to his face, you may startle him and he may bite you.
• If your animal had any vaccines, the area may be tender, let him rest and stay in a quiet area.
• If your animal has had any type of surgery and had anesthesia, please just let him rest. DO NOT lay next to him with your face next to his. Remember he had surgery, if you startle him this could end up in a bite.
• Learn to read body language. More often than not, dogs will give you a warning, a growl, a bark, retreating back to his safe area that all dogs should have, an area that is theirs to rest.
It is very difficult with very young children, they don’t understand, they can’t read body language, that’s why you should never, never leave children and animals unattended, not even for one minute. When a bite happens, it happens very quickly.
I hope these tips help.
Be safe.
We all love our animals but we have to remember they have bad days too.
Tidbits that I hope will help animal owners.
Click here to download the entire 2/23/17 issue: 02-23-17 KoolKids
