May 2, 2005

PRESS RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT:
Ria Brown, Public Information Specialist
Lee County Animal Services
(239) 432-2090 Ext. 241

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dog Bite Prevention Week is May 15 - 21
Lee County Animal Services Offers Tips on Safety

Fort Myers, FL (May 2, 2005) - Did you know that Lee County Animal Services responds to and process nearly 1000 reported bite cases each year? Those are bites where the victim has sought medical treatment and are reported by medical professionals. The actual number of bite cases is probably much higher. In the US, over 4 million people are bitten each year, 80% of victims are under 13 years of age, and most victims know and have interacted regularly with the animal that bit them.

Dog Bite Prevention Week runs from May 15-21.  However, Lee County Animal Services warns all citizens to be aware of the potential dangers of dog bites and how to prevent them year round.  The concern with bite cases is the possible transmission of the rabies virus - a fatal neurological virus that can be transmitted from animals to humans through saliva. Any dog that bites or scratches breaking the skin is required by law to be quarantined for a period of ten days to watch for signs of rabies (this also applies to cats and ferrets). If the animal does not have a current rabies vaccination and is not licensed in the county the quarantine must be at Animal Services with appropriate fees and fines. 

All bites, and details about the animal and owner (if known), should be reported to Animal Services at 432-2083.  In addition to the quarantine, Animal Services' Officers will ensure that the dog is up-to-date on a rabies vaccination and County license.  Anyone bitten should first seek medical attention, control the bleeding, and wash thoroughly with soap and water.  If bitten by an unknown animal the victim should attempt to safely contain the animal if possible - otherwise they may be required to undergo post-exposure rabies treatment if the animal cannot be identified or apprehended.

Regardless of size or breed, all dogs may bite.  Only responsible pet ownership and proper training prevent animals from becoming potential biters. Sterilization, socialization and proper play that does not encourage aggression or biting help limit any risks of bites. Many people simply point the finger a select few breeds as problem animals - but did you know that Labrador Retrievers are the number one bite case animal in the United States?

Lee County Animal Services, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and other animal professionals offer these safety tips:

1.  Ask before petting. Never pet a dog without asking the owner's permission.  If it's ok, approach slowly, letting the dog sniff you first, then pet the dog's sides or back gently.
2.  Never sneak up on a dog.  Animals that are eating or sleeping may bite if startled or frightened.
3.  Never pet a dog that is playing with a toy, in a car, behind a fence, or caring for puppies.  Dogs can often be very protective of their possessions and territory. 
4.  Learn to understand dogs' body language.  Frightened, as well as angry dogs, may bite.
       An angry dog's ears, fur, and tail will be up and it may show teeth, growl, and stare.
       A frightened dog may shrink to the ground, puts its ears back, and tuck its tail between its legs.
5.  Avoid strange dogs.  Slowly and quietly walk away from unknown dogs or any dogs that are off-leash without an owner.  If the dog approaches, stop and stand still with your hands at your side.  Do not make direct eye contact. 
6.  Never try to out run a dog.   Even a small dog can out run an adult.  Running will only make the dog want to chase you.  Back away slowly instead.
7.  Protect yourself if a dog acts aggressively.  Drop to your knees with your face to the ground.  Cover your ears with your forearms and keep your hands in a fist.  Although the dog may still bite, this position will protect the most vulnerable parts of your body and help avoid serious injury.

More information on bite safety and responsible pet ownership is available on Lee County Animal Services' website, www.LeeLostPets.com.

Lee County Animal Services provides animal control services throughout Lee County and operates an animal shelter to house stray and abandoned domestic animals. It also administers low-cost spay and neuter programs, educational initiatives, rabies and bite case control programs, and humane euthanasia when appropriate. It employs 37 and has an annual operating budget of $3.06 million.
 

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