(HealthDay News) -- Educating children, parents and dog owners can help prevent dog bites.
The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) suggests:
- Never allow a child to approach a dog that is sleeping, eating, taking care of puppies or chewing a toy or bone.
- Never allow a child to approach a dog that is barking, growling or seems afraid.
- Teach your child to ask permission to pet an unfamiliar dog. If the owner says it's OK, your child should allow the dog to sniff a closed hand, then gently pet it on the shoulders or chest instead of the top of the head.
- Explain to your child to never approach a loose dog. A child also should never try to pet a dog behind a fence or inside a car.
