Here are some basics on dog behavior and safety tips:

WHEN A DOG MAY BITE:

• When it feels threatened or frightened.
• When it is protecting its territory, food, toys, puppies, home or family.
• When it is excited or playing.
• When it doesn't know you.
• When it is enticed to "chase."
• When it has been trained or bred to be aggressive.
• When it is in pain or being teased.

SIGNS A DOG MAY BITE:

• If it stands stiff and still, or with its "hackles" up.
• If it stares at you.
• If it holds its tail stiff or up in the air, possibly wagging it, too.
• If it growls, snarls, bares its teeth or barks.

HOW TO ACT IF A DOG THREATENS:

• Stand very still and try to be calm. DON'T scream or run away.
• Know where the dog is. Don't turn your back on him or stare into his eyes.
• If the dog comes up to sniff you, don't resist. Don't react at all.
• If you speak, use a calm, firm voice.
• Try to stay until the dog leaves, then back away slowly.
• If the dog attacks suddenly, put your jacket, purse or anything else in its mouth to distract it.
• If you fall or are knocked down, curl into a ball, putting your arms over your head and neck. Don't scream or roll around.

IF YOU ARE BITTEN:

• Kids should tell an adult or parent immediately. All bites should be reported to the police and/or local animal control officers.
• Go to a doctor or hospital for treatment.
• Tell officers as much about the dog as you remember so that they can locate the dog and its owners and check its rabies vaccination status.

IF YOU OWN A DOG:

Here are some tips to help prevent your dog from becoming involved in a biting incident:

• Be sure to keep all rabies and other vaccinations up to date.
• Do not intentionally train your dog to be vicious or aggressive to other dogs, people and especially children.

TIPS FOR CHILDREN:

• Dogs don't like to be teased. Stay away from dogs that are chained or in fenced yards. Do not shout, run around or stick hands at dogs through fences or open car windows. Never approach strange dogs.
• Dogs are possessive about certain things. Don't grab bones, balls, or other toys from a dog.
• Never stick your hand into a dog fight. Find an adult to help.

Sources: The American Humane Association and Dogs.Net (www.dogs.net/Dogs/bite)