Dog owners and families are being reminded to stay aware and take precautions as Dog Bite Prevention Week gets underway.
Dog Bite Prevention Week is observed annually during the second full week of April to raise awareness about preventing dog bites and promoting safe interactions between people and dogs.
Dog trainer, Katherine Vooys says the annual campaign is all about education and prevention.
She adds that responsible ownership plays a big role. Learning to recognize early warning signs—like a tucked tail, pinned ears, or a dog backing away—can help prevent situations from escalating.
When faced with an aggressive off-leash dog in a park or on a trail, Vooys offers the following advice:
She adds that it’s important to avoid running or making sudden movements. Staying calm and quiet can help prevent further escalating the situation.
Vooys says with better awareness from both dog owners and the public, most dog bites are preventable—helping keep communities safer for everyone.
Written by Jeremy Hall

