Nearly 5 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Sadly, the majority of bite victims are children, and most dog bite injuries could have been prevented.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week, May 16 - 22, is a campaign run by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) aimed at reducing the annual number of dog bite injuries through public education and responsible dog ownership.

Basic training for dogs
According the HSUS, dog bite victims are most frequently small children, the elderly and postal carriers. Whether or not the encounter is prompted by the actions of these people, the dog owner is responsible for controlling his or her pet.

Dogs who are obedience trained and well socialized are less likely to bite, say Best Friends professional trainers. All dogs should know basic commands including 'sit,' 'stay,' 'down,' and 'come,' which can be used to control an off-leash dog.

Dogs should be taught to behave calmly when they are around children. Some breeds are very social and crave play and human interaction. Puppies and young dogs may view running, shouting children as 'littermates' who like to pounce and play. Trainers recommend taking the dog to a place where children gather (dog friendly park or playground) and putting him through his obedience paces before letting him run to the children. Teach him control first, and then, let him go say 'hello' to the children as a reward.

No matter how much training you've done, however, it is NEVER safe to let an aggressive animal run free where children are playing. If you know your dog has aggressive tendencies, keep him on a leash and away from small children.

People need training, too
The HSUS offers the BARK Dog Bite Prevention Program (Be Aware, Responsible and Kind) for elementary school children. Consisting of a video and activity booklets, the program teaches kids basic dog safety rules, such as:

• Never pet a dog you don't know without asking the owner.
• Walk slowly and quietly (don't run) past dogs you don't know, even if they're tethered or penned.
• Never disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, intently chewing on a toy or caring for puppies.
• Don't approach a dog from behind and grab him or put your arms around his neck.
• If a strange dog approaches to sniff you, stay still and try to relax. Avoid direct eye contact, and don't scream.

As a courtesy and safety precaution, keep dogs inside when letter carriers or deliverymen are expected. Too many victims have been scarred by dogs "who would never bite anyone."

Finally, spay or neuter your pet. HSUS statistics indicated that dogs that have not been spayed or neutered are three times more likely to be involved in a biting incident.

For more information on dog training or to find a professional trainer, speak with the staff at your local Best Friends Pet Resort, and for more information about bite prevention, visit www.hsus.org.