Safety Tips for Adults and Children:

• Never approach an unfamiliar dog.
• If approached by an unfamiliar dog, stand still like a tree.
• Never run from a dog and never scream around a dog.
• If you believe a dog is about to attack you, try to place something between yourself and the dog, such as a backpack or a bicycle.
• If a dog knocks you over, roll into a ball, cover your face and stay still.
• Children should never play with dogs unless supervised by an adult.
• Children should tell an adult if they see a stray dog or a dog acting strangely.
• Don't look a dog right in the eye.
• Don't disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.
• Don't play with a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first. Children should never approach a dog unless supervised by an adult.
• Adults should never leave an infant or young child alone with any dog, not even the family pet.

If Bitten:

• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Control bleeding and wash the area of the bite with soap and water.
• Because serious dog bites can cause scarring, ask emergency room personnel for a plastic surgeon certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery. This ensures that the doctor is uniquely qualified to perform reconstructive and cosmetic procedures on the face and all areas of the body.
• Report the bite to your local public health department, animal control agency or police.
• Provide authorities with an accurate description of the dog, the circumstances surrounding the bite, and the dog owner's identity, if known.