What to do if a strange dog attacked? - briefly
If you encounter an aggressive or unleashed dog, remain calm and still. Avoid eye contact, and slowly back away while keeping your hands at your sides.
What to do if a strange dog attacked? - in detail
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation where a strange dog attacks, it is crucial to remain calm and follow these specific steps to ensure your safety:
-
Stay Calm: Panic can escalate the situation. Try to stay as composed as possible to avoid triggering further aggression from the dog.
-
Do Not Run: Running may stimulate a dog's predatory instinct, causing it to chase you. Instead, stand your ground and avoid making direct eye contact, which can be perceived as threatening.
-
Slowly Back Away: If possible, slowly back away from the dog while keeping an eye on it. This approach shows that you are not a threat and may allow the dog to lose interest in you.
-
Find Cover: Look for something solid between you and the dog, such as a fence, a car, or a tree. This can provide protection and potentially deter the dog from approaching further.
-
Put an Object Between You and the Dog: If there is no immediate cover, use any available object like a bag, a jacket, or even your hands to create a barrier between you and the dog.
-
Communicate Calmly: Speak in a low, calm voice. Avoid shouting or making sudden movements that could startle the dog.
-
Prepare for Defense: If the dog continues to approach and you cannot find protection, prepare to defend yourself. Use any available object as a shield.
-
Protect Vulnerable Areas: If the dog attacks, protect your face, neck, and throat with your arms or any object you have. Try to stay on your feet if possible, as falling down can make you more vulnerable.
-
Call for Help: While defending yourself, try to call out for help from nearby individuals who might be able to assist or distract the dog.
-
Seek Medical Attention: After the attack, regardless of whether you were bitten, seek immediate medical attention. Even if the bites seem minor, they can become infected and pose serious health risks. Additionally, report the incident to local animal control authorities for follow-up action.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of staying safe during an unexpected dog attack.