Preventing dog bites, our latest video for your waiting room TV
The incidence of serious dog bites is on the rise. It follows that preventing dog bites is becoming an increasingly important animal welfare and public health topic. Vet practices are well placed to play an important role in education around bite prevention – which is where our video comes in!
The video covers the importance of bite prevention in both adults and children.
Preventing dog bites, six rules.
- Never leaving young children unattended with any dog, even the client’s own.
- Always asking the owner before stroking a dog you don’t know.
- Making sure the dog is aware of you before you try to stroke them (i.e. being able to see / sniff you).
- Never trying to stroke a dog that seems scared, nervous or trying to walk away from you.
- Not attempting to stroke or touch a dog who is eating, sleeping or playing with a toy.
- Remaining calm, moving slowly and avoiding eye contact with any off lead dogs you encounter.
Knowing the warning signs! We all know that dogs are more likely to bite if they are anxious, fearful, feeling threatened or in pain.
It also then signposts the reader to reputable sources of information and education; highlighting the need for them to educate themselves further on this important topic.
Importantly, the video highlights the warning signs that a dog is becoming anxious, fearful or uncomfortable with the situation.
Nine signs of anxiety
- A tense body posture
- Trying to remove themselves from the interaction (always let them retreat to a safe space)
- Licking the lips
- Yawning
- Showing the whites of their eyes (‘whale eye’)
- Ears held back and / or down
- Tail lowered
- Frowning (so the skin on the forehead or between the ears may wrinkle)
- Panting
We know that most clients are unaware of these subtle changes in body language, and that the ability to spot them may well prevent escalation to a bite.
Preventing dog bites
While dog bites can never completely be prevented, this video raises awareness of the potential for dog bites, even from dogs we know. It highlights the importance of bite prevention, including the ability to spot the warning signs. The video concludes by signposting clients to seek veterinary attention if they have any concerns about their pet’s behaviour. So, start educating your clients today! Log into your www.vetchannel-meida.co.uk account and place the latest videos into your playlist!