For individuals working in roles that involve approaching private properties or outdoor areas, such as delivery drivers, mail carriers, utility workers, and maintenance staff, the risk of dog bites is a serious concern. Proper knowledge and preparation can significantly reduce the chance of dog-related injuries and keep workers safe on the job. Here, we share practical tips for occupational dog bite prevention and secure practices when encountering dogs.
1. Recognize Dog Body Language
Understanding and recognizing dog body language is one of the most effective ways to prevent potential bites. Dogs often communicate their mood and intentions through body language, and reading these signals can provide insight into a dog's level of comfort.
Key Body Language Cues to Watch For
- Relaxed and Friendly: A wagging tail, open mouth, and relaxed posture indicate a friendly, approachable dog.
- Anxious or Fearful: Ears pulled back, a lowered head or a tucked tail are signs of anxiety or fear. Avoid approaching these dogs, as fear can lead to defensive biting.
- Aggressive or Defensive: Rigid posture, direct eye contact, growling, raised fur, and bared teeth indicate a dog that may bite if it feels threatened. Maintain distance from such dogs.
2. Maintain Situational Awareness
Constantlys assess your surroundings for signs of dog presence before approaching a property. Look for visible signs such as dog bowls, toys, or pet doors, and listen for barking. Knowing a dog might be present allows you to approach the property with extra caution.
3. Do Not Approach Dogs Directly
If a dog is present, avoid direct eye contact and never approach it. Dogs often interpret direct eye contact as a challenge or threat, which can lead to defensive reactions. Instead, approach the property at an angle, keeping a relaxed demeanor and moving calmly.
4. Carry Deterrents
Carrying deterrents can help you safely manage unexpected encounters with dogs. There are non-harmful tools designed to deter dogs without causing harm:
- Ultrasonic Dog Deterrent Devices: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant for dogs but inaudible to humans, helping to keep them at a safe distance.
- Dog Repellent Sprays: Non-toxic dog sprays can effectively deter aggressive dogs without causing lasting harm.
- Whistles or Personal Alarms: Sudden loud noises can startle a dog and potentially deter it from approaching.
5. Use Barriers for Protection
If you need to interact with a dog or the dog is approaching, using objects as a barrier can protect you from a potential bite.
- Carry an Item as a Shield: Using an item such as a clipboard, bag, or umbrella can act as a shield to prevent direct contact if the dog becomes aggressive.
- Deliver from a Safe Distance: Leave packages or paperwork in designated drop-off areas to avoid entering the dog’s territory.
6. Stay Calm and Avoid Sudden Movements
Dogs are susceptible to body language and can react defensively to sudden movements. If a dog approaches:
- Stand Still: Avoid moving or making noise, as sudden actions can escalate the situation.
- Turn Sideways: Standing sideways rather than facing the dog directly can reduce the perceived threat, making it less likely to feel provoked.
- Avoid Running: Running can trigger a dog’s prey drive, causing it to chase. Instead, calmly and slowly back away if the situation allows.
7. Use Clear, Firm Commands
Dogs may respond to basic commands, mainly if they are accustomed to them. Use a firm, clear voice to issue commands such as "No," "Stay," or "Back." Avoid yelling or sounding fearful, as this can escalate a dog’s aggression or make it more defensive.
8. Plan Safe Exits
If you know of aggressive dogs on a property or route, plan an exit strategy to avoid dangerous encounters. Maintain knowledge of gates, fences, or exits for a safe retreat.
9. Report Aggressive Incidents
Any encounters with aggressive dogs should be documented and reported to your employer or supervisor. Reporting incidents ensures that preventive measures can be implemented in the future, such as updating the location’s records or coordinating with the property owner for safer access.
10. Get Training on Dog Behavior
Some employers offer or require training on handling and reading dog behavior. This training can increase awareness of body language cues and provide additional strategies for avoiding bites, equipping workers with essential safety skills.
Conclusion
Occupational dog bite prevention is all about awareness, preparation, and using the right tools and techniques. By recognizing body language, staying calm, using deterrents, and following these preventive tips, workers can stay safe and minimize the risks associated with encounters with dogs on the job. Following these practices can ensure that lone workers are well-equipped to protect themselves and significantly reduce the risk of dog bites.
At Grennier Law, PC, we also think it is important to spread information to aid in dog bite prevention.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year.
Over half of these incidents involve children.
Surprisingly, most bites come from a dog familiar to the victim, so it is extremely important to know what to do when a dog becomes hostile.
More detailed information is available at CDC.gov.
We know how to maximize the law [Civil Code section 3342(a)], which provides in part: “The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place…”
