Summertime is here and that means that more people are out and about in public places like parks. Whether you’re an animal person or not, it’s important to know basic safety tips for interacting with dogs.
Teach children to keep a safe distance from unfamiliar dogs. Never leave a child alone with a dog and be sure to keep an eye on children playing outside in the neighborhood.
If an unfamiliar dog approaches, remain calm and quiet. Don’t make eye contact and stay on your feet. If possible, put something between you and the dog — a trash can lid, a purse, anything that would give the dog something to bite other than your body. If you are knocked off your feet, curl up in a ball and cover your face and neck.
Help keep your community safe by reporting stray or roaming dogs to your local Animal Control. In Orleans Parish, that's the Louisiana SPCA. For a list of other area shelters click here.
