Joggers May Be At Risk Of Dog Bite Attacks
So, you are an exercise fanatic and enjoy jogging around the streets of Philadelphia in the spring, summer and fall. All is well until you encounter a dog that is watching you. While most dogs will leave you alone, a small percentage of dogs are will place you at risk for a dog bite attack.
Generally, dog biters fit within two categories; submissive types (fear biters) and dominant types (aggression biters). The submissive types will slow down or veer to one side when you approach them in an attempt to avoid a confrontation dominant types may approach you with their ears and tail standing up tall, showing off their confidence.
If you feel threatened by a dog while jogging, you should try to determine the type of dog that is threatening you and deal with these dogs in different manners. When dealing with a dominant type of dog, you should stop jogging or walking and avoid direct eye contact. Turn your body slightly away from the dog (i.e. avoid full frontal or rear views). Allow the dog to sniff you to establish that you are not a threat. Most dominant dogs will simply leave you alone.
If you feel threatened by a submissive dog, you should once again stop jogging or walking, but this time, face the dog straight on, even if the dog tries to circle around you. Slowly withdraw from the dog's "territory" so that it does not feel threatened.
It is important to remember to never run away, since running triggers the natural instinct in dogs to give chase. Also never stare at the dog or make direct eye contact, since this is perceived as a threat.
Should all else fail and you get attacked by a dog, it is important to try to identify the owner of the dog. This will enable you to get information regarding whether the dog is current on its shots. This could be the difference from having to undergo painful rabies injections or other treatment. You should also contact a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer to obtain information on your rights under Pennsylvania Law.
