Tips To Stay Safe During Dog Bite Prevention Week

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – We've finally hit that time of year when dogs and their owners can't wait out of the house. But with more dogs out and about in the metro - the threat of being bitten is going up.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 800,000 people require medical attention for dog bites each year in the U.S. Children are the most common victims.

There's an easy way to avoid such problems with your pet: Find the right park for your pet to interact with other dogs and lower their stress. You'll want to let them play and not force it that gives them the best chance to be social without the danger of being violent.

It's when dogs feel threatened that they generally react in a more violent way, so take them off their leash at the dog park and let them feel free. If a child wants to pet your dog, make sure your pet approaches them slowly and doesn't feel threatened or nervous.

Experts said let the dog take control in a social situation and they'll feel more comfortable. Then they'll also be less threatening to other dogs and young kids.