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WAYS TO PREVENT DOG BITE INJURIES IN CHILDREN

Children are the most common victims of dog bite injuries in California, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The risk of dog bite injuries is especially high for toddlers, who don’t always know how to determine when a dog is acting aggressively, and whose delicate skin and bones can be severely damaged by a dog bite.

Luckily, there are ways to protect yourself and the children you love and reduce the risk of a dog bite injury. Consider the following tips:

  • Research and meet with potential dogs before you adopt one. Make sure every member of the household gets to meet the dog before you commit to bringing it into your home. The dog should be compatible with everyone in the house and with your lifestyle.
  • If any member of your family is timid or afraid of dogs, don’t adopt one. Wait, and give family members the chance to meet dogs in other ways.
  • Teach children never to bother dogs who are eating, sleeping, or taking care of puppies. Dogs are often territorial during these activities and may bite to defend themselves.
  • Model “good dog manners” by never running up to or petting a strange dog without its owner’s permission. Once you have permission, extend your hand and allow the dog to sniff you before petting it. Teach children to do the same.

At Caputo & Van Der Walde LLP, our Pleasanton dog bite attorneys can help you or your child seek the compensation you need after a dog bite injury. For a free, confidential consultation, please don’t hesitate to call us today at (800) 900-0863.