May 20-26^th marks National Dog Bite Prevention Week. Did you know 4.7 million people in this country are bitten by dogs every year? Children are the most common dog bite victims and typically are more severely injured by dog bites. Approximately 400,000 children seek medical attention each year as a result of dog bites. Most dog bites affecting young children occur during everyday activities and while interacting with familiar dogs. The second most commonly affected group of dog bite victims are the elderly.

There are a number of things you can do to avoid dog bites, ranging from properly socializing and training your pet to educating children on the proper way to interact with, approach or not approach a dog. Education and information is the best cure for this public health crisis.

Dog owners can help prevent dog bite injuries by properly selecting a puppy, socializing your pet and providing the proper mental and physical stimulation for your dog. Purchasing a puppy should not be an impulse, rather an educated decision based on breed research. Socialize your puppy to ensure your pet feels at ease around people and other animals. Avoid putting your puppy in a situation where they feel threatened or teased. In addition, properly training your dog will help build a bond of trust with people. Regular exercise will keep your dog healthy and provide a source of mental stimulation, but remember to avoid highly excitable games with your dog such as tug-of-war and wrestling. Use a leash in public to ensure you have control over your dog and check gate latches and fences regularly to maintain a secure yard. Keep your dog healthy, vaccinated, neutered and free of intestinal parasites because how your dog feels affects how it behaves.

Parents can prevent dog bites by teaching children to be cautious around dogs and treat your own pets with respect. Because children are the most common dog bite victims, babies and small children should never be left alone with dogs. Parents should be alert for dangerous situations when around dogs and teach their children how to interact, approach and behave around dogs.

Kivisto Veterinary Clinic is promoting dog bite awareness and dog bite prevention May 20-26^th. Please stop in for a packet of educational information as well as contact information for dog trainers, puppy socialization classes and veterinary behavior resources. We will also be holding a dog bite prevention seminar at our clinic on Saturday, May 19^th at 2:00PM. Give us a call at 763-631-3575 for more information. Together we can prevent dog bites.