Staying Safe Around Dogs

Key points

  • Dogs can be scared and stressed after a natural disaster and may be more likely to bite or scratch.
  • Do not approach an unfamiliar dog and remain motionless if one approaches you.
  • Avoid direct eye contact, and never disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.
  • Children should not play with dogs without the owner’s permission and adult supervision.

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This is an important message from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dogs can be scared and stressed after a natural disaster and may be more likely to bite or scratch. Do not approach an unfamiliar dog, and remain motionless if one approaches you. Avoid direct eye contact, and never disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies. Children should not play with dogs without the owner’s permission and adult supervision. To learn more, call CDC at 800-CDC-INFO.

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Content Source:
National Center for Environmental Health