Studies have shown that the incidence of dog bites increases during the holiday season. Dogs, like people, are normally more stressed during the holidays resulting in an increase in bites and attacks. The holidays also bring loud children to homes where they are made to interact with dogs that they are unfamiliar with. These unfamiliar guests accompanied by changes in a dog's normal routine can lead to an increase in aggression.
Some suggestions to reduce dog bites during the holidays include crating a dog when your house guests arrive at the home. Although the dog might be confined, this will serve to permit the animal to feel comfortable in a place they are familiar with when the guests invade their space. You can also put your dog on a leash inside an area of your home or gate the dog so that it only has access to one area of the house.
Of course, holiday guests should not hug, chase or scream near a dog. Guests should also refrain from pushing and pulling the animal and picking it up. These can all cause a dog to become afraid and act on its fear. Finally, a holiday guest should never disturb a dog while it is eating. This can result in dog bites, attacks and maulings.
Have a happy and, more importantly, safe holiday season - free of dog bites and animal attacks.
For a free consultation regarding your dog bite or animal attack case, please contact The Citron Law Firm at 877-550-4LAW.
