The demographic that is at a high risk of a dog bite are utility workers, shelter employees, mailmen, salespeople, animal control staff, children, city employees, EMS, installers, etc. According to a research, 1,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms every day for non-fatal dog bite related injuries.
The nature of your job may put you at a risk of a dog bite but all hope is not lost since dog bites are completely preventable. Occupational safety is a basic right and the potential danger of a dog bite should not risk that for you. Hence, this blog post will discuss ways you can prevent dog bites when on the job.
1. Learn basic canine behavior
In order to prevent a dog bite, you must be able to identify the behavioral changes that occur before a dog charges at you. Learning the behavioral patterns of an aggressive dog is crucial to not only your job but to your safety as well. Here are some symptoms of an aggressive dog that you need to know:
Not every tail wag indicates a happy dog. A tail wag simply confirms that the dog is confident.
Widened eyes (or whale eyes) indicate that a dog is stressed.
Bared teeth and curled lips are symptoms of aggression as well.
Restlessness and growling also indicate that the dog is aggressive.
Furthermore, you should not approach a stray dog. Even if you do approach a dog that is on leash, do not pet them and avoiding their face. At Dog Bite Safety, we take pride in our professionals who are experts in reading dog behavior.
2. Attend dog bite training classes
You won’t be able to take the right preventative measure if you’re not educated properly on dog behavior and dog bite safety training. Attending a training session is important to ensure your security and security of the ones you care about. Here, at Dog Bite Safety, we provide personal training sessions that focus on avoiding potential dangers.
Additionally, we provide bite prevention video sessions for kids, veterinary staff, and field employees. These sessions will not only educate you about canine behavioral patterns but raise awareness on how to deal with a dog during emergency situations.
3. Act accordingly when encountered by an aggressive dog
Now, you are equipped with the necessary knowledge about canine behavior. But, what should you do when you encounter an aggressive dog? Firstly, always be aware of your surroundings for any looming (disguised as friendly) threats. Avoid areas that are notorious for housing aggressive and biting dogs.
Secondly, carry defense tools such as a pepper spray, or high voltage stun device for severely aggressive dogs.
Lastly, make sure to call your local animal control department so they can handle the situation professionally without causing additional issues for you or another innocent person.
4. Dog bite prevention tips for utility Workers
If you are a utility worker and come face to face with an aggressive dog, here’s what you should do to avoid a dog bite:
Don’t run, this will signal to the dog that you are prey, causing most dogs to chase after you.
Don’t turn your back to any dog.
Don’t reach for the dog to try and touch it.
Stay calm and don’t make sudden movements to ensure the dog you are not going to attack them.
Don’t throw any objects at the dog in panic, this will worsen their outburst and may cause a dog bite.
Wear high-visibility clothing and necessary gear to protect you from a dog bite.
Carry pepper spray or a high-voltage stun device for self-defense.
Nevertheless, whenever you are out on duty, be aware of your surroundings. If you are a service field employee and in search of dog bite safety training near you, check out the in-person or video training sessions at Dog Bite Safety, LLC. Having the necessary training is a great step towards ensuring a safe day at work for you!
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