Using the S.A.F.E. Program for Bite Prevention

Have you heard of the S.A.F.E. program? It helps children and adults learn about the prevention of dog bites. Children significantly benefit from this program because their high-energy levels can be highly misunderstood by a dog unfamiliar with them. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) states that more than 4.5 million people in the United States get bit by a dog yearly. Continue reading to learn more about the S.A.F.E. program and how to stay informed about dog bite prevention.

S.A.F.E. stands for – Stay, Arms, Face, and Eyes.

Stay – Please remain quiet and avoid running away from the dog.

Arms – Avoid moving your arms around as it may excite the dog. Keep your arms crossed and close to your body.

Face – Turn your face away to avoid injury.

Eyes – Avoid making direct eye contact with the dog. This is because some dogs consider this a challenge or invitation to attack.

The good thing about the S.A.F.E. program is that it teaches children (and adults) to be calm during dog interactions. We advise you to teach your child how to interact with dogs. Teach them how to pet dogs gently while treating them with kindness. The S.A.F.E. program will help people learn how to handle various situations they may encounter with dogs.