A person's natural instincts can sometimes cause worse results if attacked by a dog or attempting to rescue a victim. Consider the following tips that may not only lessen the severity of injuries but possibly avoid a fatal dog attack.
What to Do If You're the Victim of a Dog Attack
First, consider how you may prevent an attack in the first place. It's important to understand that running elicits a chase. So while it's a normal reaction to run from a threatening dog, try to stand completely still instead. Keep your arms at your sides and don't make eye contact.
If an attack does ensue, create a barrier between you and the dog. This could be an item you have on hand such as a backpack, purse, bicycle or umbrella. It may even be a nearby object, such as a stick or the lid of a garbage can.
Don't fight the dog, as this will only fuel its aggression. Instead, curl into a ball and cover your ears if you’re unable to block the dog with the barrier object. The most important areas to protect are the face, throat, chest and thighs. Also, to prevent injury to your fingers, ball your hands into fists.
Try to avoid rolling around or screaming. And don't pull away while the dog is biting, as that can tear the flesh and worsen the injury.
What to Do When a Dog Is Attacking Someone
In 2006, Good Morning America had dog trainer Bob Conklin and his assistant Harry Lazorda on the show to provide tips on not only what to do and not to do if you’re attacked, but how to rescue a child who is being attacked.
They recommend to redirect the dog's attention by striking it with an object if you see it attacking a child. If possible, grab the sides of its neck. This will help control its head so it can't turn around and bite you. Another option is to grab it's Adam's apple and choke the dog.
Just as you shouldn't pull away from a dog biting, they recommend that you don't attempt to pull the dog off the victim. It can result in tears to the skin.
If someone you love was the victim of a fatal dog attack in Atlanta, it's important to understand your legal rights to file a wrongful death claim. Call Jason R. Schultz at 404-474-0804 to set up a consultation.