Program Tells Pupils How to Avoid Dog Bites

To educate children and their parents on how to protect themselves from dog bites, the Los Angeles Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on Monday began its feral dog program.

The program targets residents in South-Central Los Angeles and East Los Angeles, where an unusually high number of dog bites are reported, many of them from wild or abandoned animals roaming the streets, said Jony Melrod, director of humane education for the Los Angeles SPCA.

Through the summer, the SPCA and Pedigree Food for Dogs is sponsoring workshops at elementary schools where youngsters will be taught responsible pet ownership and dog bite prevention tips.

The children will also take fliers in English and Spanish home to their parents that outline the tips they learned.

Melrod, who led the first workshop Monday at 102nd Street Elementary School in Watts, explained to the students how to deal with a stray dog.

She emphasized that dogs act aggressively if they feel the need to protect themselves, and that their belongings--such as food, toys and puppies--are best left alone in these situations.

“Do not panic and do not run,” she said. “That sets off the dog’s chase instincts.”

If a dog does approach, Melrod said, “Stand still as a tree and put your fists up under the chin” [to protect your neck] and tell the dog “no” or “go home” in a firm voice. She added that you should never stare an animal in the eye.

If these instructions are followed, the dog will probably walk away, she said.

If the dog attacks, Melrod suggested putting something like a backpack or purse between yourself and the animal. If you are knocked over, you should stay still and bring your knees to your chest, put your fists over your ears and elbows over your eyes, she said.

Melrod urges people to get their dogs spayed or neutered, not only for health and population control reasons, but because unspayed and unneutered dogs are three times more likely to bite, she said.

In addition, she suggested that dogs be taught appropriate behavior with people at an early age. “You shouldn’t leave a dog tied up in the backyard and kept away and unsocialized because they are more likely to bite,” she said.

Information: (213) 730-5300.