Having animals as pets can be fun.
Dogs, cats and other pets give some sort of therapy to stressed souls.
And for many, dogs provide the best company that other pets are not capable of, such as providing protection at home.
But what happens when the pet whom you love to cuddle, pet and feed suddenly becomes an attacker? According to statistics, an estimated 4.
5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year.
About 750, 000 of these bite incidents require medical attention while only about 18 cases a year are fatal.
Ironically, animal attack incidents often occur in places where leash laws and strict animal ordinances are supposed to be implemented such residential areas and neighborhoods.
Animal attacks can be prevented if one pays attention to signs of misbehavior or aggressiveness in his pet.
The first rule in animal attack prevention is learning how to recognize an aggressive behavior.
To avoid an animal attack situation, you must observe the following actions: oDo not approach a pet or an animal when he is feeding or asleep.
oWhen approached by a dog, do not run or turn away.
If possible, stay calm and do not move from your position.
Dogs are pursuit predators with a chase reflex; your sudden movement might provoke dogs from chasing you.
oTrain your dog.
Consult with an animal or dog trainer.
oAvoid highly excitable games like wrestling or tug-of-war.
Use a leash in public to control your dog.
oKeep your dog healthy.
Have your dog vaccinated against rabies and other infectious diseases.
Parasite control and other health care are important because how your dog feels directly affects how it behaves.
oBe a responsible pet owner.
License your dog with the community as required.
Obey leash laws.
Dogs are social animals; spending time with your pet is important.
Dogs that are frequently left alone have a greater chance of developing behavior problems.
oBe alert.
Know your dog and study its behavior.
oWatch out for signs of illness such as when your dog is uncomfortable or feeling aggressive.
Inevitably, if you are bitten or attacked by a dog, the best thing to do is to protect your face and neck.
This can be done by covering your face with your hands and having your elbows and arms cover your neck.
While you are under attack, stay close as possible to the dog to avoid further injuries.
This could prevent muscle or flesh wounds from being torn open that could cause bleeding.
Seek immediate medical attention for any dog bite or animal attack.
Report the incident to the local police.
To seek damages for injuries sustained in an animal attack, you can always seek the assistance of a lawyer who specializes in litigating cases of similar nature.
A lawyer can provide you with legal information on how you may recover damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of work and many other damages relating to the incident.
Among other things, a lawyer can assist you in preparing your case, making necessary documentation and help you build a strong case.