The current issues associated with the recent mauling of a citizen by a Pit Bull have promoted all sorts of emotions – some rational, others way off the radars of logic and scientific facts. My dear colleague, Dr Nicholas Waldron, who now resides and works in Montserrat has taken time to research the matter and share his opinions. I think it is quite appropriate that we suspend our present series in the Pet Corner dealing with the Care of Mother Dog right after whelping.
Over the next two weeks Dr Waldron will function as a Guest Contributor to The Pet Corner.
I thank Dr Waldron not only for sharing his views, not all of which I agree with in totality, but for remaining in contact with the Motherland.
Some facts
– Any dog will bite if provoked, threatened or scared.
– A dog bite is considered a serious public health problem in some countries.
– 2% of the American population is bitten every year. That is about 4.7 million people about 25% of whom require medical attention. There are about 12 fatalities annually.
– Most of the victims are children under 12 years of age. Dog bites are the second most frequent reason for ER visits in this age group.
– Most victims are the dogs’ owners or the owners’ relatives, neighbours or acquaintances, and most of the attacks take place on the dogs own premises.
Why do some dogs bite?
Genetics – A dog whose forbears were aggressive has a greater tendency to show aggression. So, if a pup’s mother and/or father were aggressive dogs (regardless of their respective breed/s) the pup has the potential to be aggressive as well.
Early pup-hood experiences – What happens early on in a pup’s life can affect its temperament later on in life. For example, some pups born into large litters or in some commercial kennels where there is competition for food, warmth, etc, may tend to develop dominant, aggressive or on the other hand very defensive personalities.
Socialization and training – This is possibly the most important factor in making a pet well adjusted and less likely to demonstrate aggressive behaviour. Integration and interaction with humans and other pets as well as basic obedience training ensure that negative traits are corrected early and that your dog develops an even and tolerant personality making it possible for you to control your dog in most situations.
Immediate situation and victim behaviour – An animal that is cornered, injured or otherwise feels threatened is more likely to bite. A dog that feels challenged on its own territory or one that perceives that its owner is under threat may also bite in defence. A victim that attempts to run, strike out at the animal, is screaming, nervous or agitated is very likely to be bitten. Dogs are also more likely to attack if they are in a pack or if the owner is not present.
What if I am threatened or attacked?
– Do not run or scream. Stand absolutely still, side on, legs together with hands and arms protecting the face and neck. DO NOT MOVE. Dogs have a natural instinct to chase ‘prey’ that runs away from them.
– Do not stare the dog directly in the eyes. Animals interpret stares as challenges.
– You may try a calm but loud shout of “NO” in a firm and confident tone of voice as the dog approaches.
Many dogs recognize ‘no’ as an admonishment and may desist.
– If the dog desists from the attack back away slowly and calmly.
– If the dog attacks try feeding him your jacket, handbag, bicycle or any other object that you can put between you and the dog.
– If the dog knocks you over roll into a tight ball with your knees against your chest and use your hand and arms to protect your face, ears and neck. Once again, remain absolutely still.
– If you do get bitten seek professional medical attention immediately. If there is none immediately available wash the wounds with copious amounts of clean water and a mild soap. Control bleeding if there is any.
How can I prevent attacks?
The prevention of dog attacks starts with the education of people on how to be responsible dog
owners, on what we all can do to prevent a tragic incident and on what one should do if he/she witnesses or is a victim of an attack. Here are a few simple tips:-
– Before you acquire a dog or a pup make sure you are ready to own one. Seek professional advice on the correct choice and care of an appropriate dog for you. Your local vet can be of invaluable help.
– Make sure that your pet is properly socialized and receives basic obedience training at an early age. This will ensure that your pet does not feel insecure in unfamiliar situations and most importantly that you have a dog that you can control.
– Neuter or spay your pet. Sterilized dogs are far less likely to be aggressive than unsterilized pets.
More next week.
Please implement disease preventative measures (vaccinations, routine dewormings, monthly anti-heartworm medication, etc) and adopt-a-pet from the GSPCA’s Animal Clinic and Shelter at Robb Street and Orange Walk, if you have the wherewithal to care well for the animals. Do not stray your unwanted pets, take them to the GSPCA’s Clinic and Shelter instead. If you see anyone being cruel to an animal, or if you need any technical information, please get in touch with the Clinic and Shelter by calling 226-4237.
