Saturday, February 03, 2007

How do you fend off a dangerous dog?


A five-year-old girl in Merseyside has been killed by what police describe as a pit bull terrier type of dog. But what should people do when confronted by what they think is a dangerous dog?
Ellie Lawrenson died of severe head and neck injuries after being mauled at her grandmother's house in St Helens.
The exact circumstances of her death are unclear, but it would appear a small girl like her could do little to defend herself against a killer dog.
However experts say if an individual believes a dog could be intent on attacking them, there are ways to help to defuse the situation.

KEY TIPS
No sudden movements
Put hands in pockets
Avoid eye contact
Back away but do not run away
Children can accidentally provoke a dog
Never try to break up two fighting dogs
"Standing still and put your hands in pockets because they like to get hold of something," says Madeleine Forsyth, a veterinary surgeon and non-practising barrister based in York. "A waving arm is an obvious target."
source BBC

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