Town of Hamlin
Dog Control Services

How to avoid getting bitten

Never approach a dog you don’t know or which is alone without its owner, especially if the dog is confined behind a fence, within a car, or on a chain.

Don’t disturb a dog which is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.

Don’t pet a dog, even your own, without letting it see and sniff you first.

When approached by a dog you don’t know, don’t run or scream. Stand still with your hands at your sides and do not make direct eye contact with or speak to the dog. Teach children to “be a tree” until a dog passes away. Practice with a stuffed toy dog.

If you’re knocked to the ground by a dog, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears. Lie still and quiet until the dog goes away. Teach children to “be like a log” until the dog goes away.

Try “feeding” an attacking dog your jacket, purse, bicycle or anything else that can serve as a barrier between you and the dog.

What to do if you are bitten by a dog >

See Also:

• Dog Bites
• Duties of the Dog Control Officer
• Complaint to have a dog confined
• New York State Dog License
• Rabies

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James Atkins
Dog Control Officer
Pager: 525-1608
Email: hamlindogcontrol@frontiernet.net

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