Every parent wants their children to be safe while playing outside. South Jersey is home to numerous beautiful parks and friendly neighborhoods, where kids and pets often encounter each other. However, even a seemingly friendly dog can become overwhelmed or protective in an instant. Understanding canine body language is the best way to prevent a serious injury before it happens.
You should watch for these specific physical cues that a dog may be feeling aggressive or threatened:
- A stiff or rigid body that looks like the dog is frozen in place
- The whites of the eyes showing clearly, often called “whale eye”
- Hair standing up along the ridge of the back or shoulders
- A tail that is tucked tightly between the legs or wagging very stiffly
- Lowered head and ears pulled back flat against the skull
These signs often mean the dog is under high stress and may bite if approached. If you see these behaviors, you should calmly move your child away from the animal immediately.
Why children are at higher risk
Children often do not understand the boundaries that animals require. They might try to hug a strange dog or pull on its ears and tail. Unfortunately, many dogs view these quick movements as a threat. Because children are smaller, dog bites often occur on the face or neck which can lead to permanent scarring.
Parents can teach their children how to interact safely with pets by following these simple rules:
- Always ask the owner for permission before touching any new dog.
- Avoid approaching a dog that is eating or sleeping.
- Let the dog sniff your hand before you try to pet it.
- Never scream or run away from a dog because this triggers their chase instinct.
What to do if a bite occurs
If a dog bites your child, your first priority is seeking medical attention. Even small bites can lead to dangerous infections if they are not treated by a professional. Our firm helps local families find the right doctors if they do not have a primary physician ready. After the child is safe, you should document the incident and identify the owner.
Most dog bite claims in New Jersey involve the owner’s homeowners’ insurance policy. These cases are often straightforward because the law protects victims of unprovoked attacks. You deserve a legal team that focuses on your recovery while handling the insurance companies for you.
Contact our experienced personal injury team
Recognizing the signs of aggression is the first step in safety, but knowing your legal rights is the first step in recovery. Whether you are dealing with an animal attack or another personal injury claim, contact Smith Magram Michaud Colonna at 609-589-0649 or online for the legal experience and tenacious advocacy you deserve.