Know the signs that a dog might bite you
The P.E.I. Humane Society is concerned about an increase in the number of dog bites over the last two years in the province.
The society has issued some information, part of Dog Bite Prevention Week, to remind people what they can do to prevent being bitten.
Look for signals
There are several signs that dogs give before they bite.
Reese Perrault, the society's adoption intake co-ordinator, said recognizing them is key to preventing injury.
"If their ears are back instead of floppy or forward. Their brow, if it's furrowed, their mouth if it's closed and then they're kind of staring at you and their body is really stiff or forward, you don't approach a dog like that," said Perrault.
The best approach, according to Perrault is to listen and watch for the animal's cues. Their expressions and body language will tell you what you need to know.
Don't corner dogs
Dogs that are uncomfortable are more likely to act out.
'If they have no way of getting out of the situation, and they are cornered...they have the potential to bite," said Perrault.
Basically, give dogs the space they need. They need to feel like they could escape if they wanted to.
Get permission before you pet
If you meet a dog on a boardwalk, at someone's house or in the park, always ask before you act.
"If you see a dog and you want to meet the dog, ask the owner," said Perrault.
"If there's no owner, don't approach."
Perrault said if you do get permission, let the dog decide if it wants to interact. If so, crouch down and let the dog sniff your hand. If the dog doesn't seem interested, Perrault said to respect that and move on.
Remember all dogs can bite
No one wants to think their furry companion is capable of hurting them or anyone else.
But Perrault said it's important to remember that all dogs can bite.
"A lot of people think that because it's a family dog or a familiar dog that it's not going to bite, but they can bite just as well."
Perrault said petowners need to keep a close eye on their dog, and watch for any signals that suggest it'suncomortable or under stress.
Be careful with kids
Dogs can get uncomfortable if they aren't used to children, said Perrault. Kids can be erratic, noisy and unpredictable, and that often makes dogs anxious.
"People have the misconception that dogs love kids," she said, "The fact is, dogs are scared of kids."
She said parents need to know that some behaviours could put children at risk. That includes things like hugging a dog, pulling its tail or lifting up its lip.
Expose your pet to people and places
Perrault said socialization is a good way to prevent a dog from biting. That means exposing your pet to lots of people when it's a puppy.
In that case, it will likely feel more comfortable in different scenarios as if gets older.
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