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Safety Around Animals

Dog bites are a serious problem in our country, with more than 500,000 bites that require medical attention. Our shelter receives over 1,200 bite calls every year, all of which must be investigated as part of our public health and rabies control responsibilities. Sadly, children make up more than 60 percent of all dog bite victims.

Though the majority of dogs are well behaved, even the cuddliest, cutest dog can bite if provoked. Educate yourself and your children about animal behavior, responsible pet handling, and steps you can take to address this problem. If you are bitten, follow dog bite instructions.

Child Friendly Dog Safety Information -- Download Brochure 

Helpful Links:

• American Veterinary Medial Association - A Community Approach to Dog Bite Prevention
• American Veterinary Medical Association - Educational Resources for Dog Bite Prevention
• Animal Sheltering - Making Dog Bite Prevention a Community Affair
• Center for Disease Control - Bibliography of Articles on Dog Bites
• Center for Disease Control - Report on Fatal Dog Bites
• The Humane Society of the United States - Dog Bite Prevention Resources for Children
• Sacramento County Public Health Veterinarian- Information about Rabies, Bites etc.
• School of Veterinary Medicine - University of California, Davis - Companion Animal Behavior Program
• UC Davis - Strategies for Avoiding Dog Bites
• UC Davis - References on Dog Aggression

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