FOR MORE INFORMATION
healthychildren.org: Tips for Choosing the Right Pet for Your Family
healthychildren.org: Dog Bite Prevention Tips
Pet Safety
There are over 4.5 million animal bites reported in the United States every year. Teach children how to approach and stay safe around animals, including your own pets.
Teach your child not to approach pets or other animals that they are not familiar with. To prevent injuries, avoid leaving children unsupervised with animals.
Dog bites are the most common type of animal bite in the United States. Remember these tips to prevent dog bites:
- Ask permission from a pet's owner before getting close to or touching a dog.
- Let a dog sniff you before you touch it.
- Avoid petting dogs while they are sleeping, eating, or caring for their young.
- Pet gently. Avoid touching faces or tails.
- Play gently. Avoid rough games, like tug of war or wrestling.
If an animal seems angry or upset, stay calm. Do not make eye contact. Back away slowly until it calms down and leaves you alone.
If an animal knocks you down, curl into a ball. Use your hands and arms to protect your head and face.
If you are bitten by an animal, here is what to do:
- If the bite is severe, call 911 or go to the Emergency Department right away for treatment.
- Clean and wash the bite with soap and warm water.
- Call your doctor to see what you should do next. You may need antibiotics or a tetanus shot.
- If a pet bites you, ask for the owner's contact information and the proof that the pet has had its rabies shot.
- Report the bite to local authorities within 24 hours.
- Watch for symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, fever, loss of appetite, body rash, or headache. If you notice any of these, talk to your doctor for help.
If an animal scratches you, here is what to do:
- Wash with soap and water.
- Apply antibiotic ointment.
- Watch for symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, fever, loss of appetite, body rash, or headache. If you notice any of these, talk to your doctor for help.
Animals may transmit illnesses even if they do not bite or scratch you. Practice good hygiene by washing your hands after being around animals. Avoid touching items like beds, cages, or food or water dishes. Adults should sanitize these areas regularly and wash their hands with soap and water after.
Do you have questions about animal safety?
Call our FREE Safety Store Helpline at 317-274-6565. You can talk with our staff live Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM about your safety questions.