The Humane Society of the United States gives these tips on a successful meeting of canine and human:
* Always ask permission
to pet a dog.
Then let the dog sniff the back of your
hand
in order to identify you.
* Never
touch
a dog without letting it see and sniff you.
See a
neighbor's dog sitting in the car? Even if the dog knows you, and
you have petted
him before,
never reach inside the window. The dog could think he's on guard and
defend
his territory.
* Don't approach a strange
dog,
especially not one that is confined or restrained.
* Never run past
or turn your back
on a dog and run away. Its natural instinct
is to chase.
* Don't make jerky movements
,
wave your arms, or scream even in play.
Such
actions may provoke the dog's chase response.
* Don't stare into a
dog's eyes
because that's how dogs challenge each other to fight.
Always
assume that a strange dog may see you as an intruder.
You may want to help an injured animal, but take precautions. Even your own pet may bite if it's in pain or afraid. Don't try to pick him up or pet him. Move slowly and try loosely muzzling the dog with a leash or strip of cloth.
* If you have a dog, don't teach him to "sic.
" You would be teaching him that it's
OK to attack.
Dogs can be wonderful
companions, but they should be approached with care if they belong
to someone else.
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