[caption id="attachment_48232" align="alignleft" width="200"] Image: Meagen H.[/caption]National Dog Bite Prevention Week takes place during the third full week of May each year, and focuses on educating people about preventing dog bites. This year it will be celebrated May 19-25, 2014, and the American Veterinary Medical Association wants you to know that:

• Each year, more than 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs.

• Almost 1 in 5 people bitten by dogs require medical attention.

• Every year, more than 800,000 Americans receive medical attention for dog bites; at least half of them are children.

• Children are, by far, the most common victims of dog bites and are far more likely to be severely injured.

• Most dog bites affecting young children occur during everyday activities and while interacting with familiar dogs.

• Senior citizens are the second most common dog bite victims.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, suggests that since children are most often victims of dog bites, parents should teach these basic safety tips.

• Do not approach an unfamiliar dog.

• Do not run from a dog or scream.

• Remain motionless (e.g., "be still like a tree") when approached by an unfamiliar dog.

• If knocked over by a dog, roll into a ball and be still.

• Do not play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.

• Immediately report stray dogs or dogs displaying unusual behavior to an adult.

• Avoid direct eye contact with a dog.

• Do not disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.

• Do not pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.

• If bitten, immediately report the bite to an adult.

As responsible pet parents, it is important that you:

• Spay or Neuter Your Dog – Neutered pets can be calmer, healthier and less likely to be aggressive in some situations.

• Condition Your Dog – Give your puppy lots of new positive experiences.

• Supervise Your Dog – Supervise your dog at all times around children.

Upcoming Events:

Mark your calendars and plan to visit Braxton’s as they host local rescue organizations in May. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet some of the wonderful pets available for adoption. For more information on any of the meet and greet events, click here.