Dog Attacks and Bite Prevention
Dealing With A Dog Attack/Biting Incident
To report a dog attack or biting incident, residents should:
- call 911 for immediate assistance if the incident is in progress.
- call Animal Services at 490-4000 or 1-800-835-6428 (Toll free Nova Scotia Only).
If you have been attacked or bitten by a dog you should:
- seek medical assistance if necessary.
- clean any wounds thoroughly with soap and hot water.
- photograph any injuries sustained during the attack.
- report the incident to Animal Services at 490-4000 or 1-800-835-6428 (Toll free Nova Scotia Only).
more information on registering a complaint
Why Do Dogs Bite?
Dogs bite:
- to protect themselves, the people they love and their territory.
- because they are sick or injured.
- if they are trained to be aggressive.
Preventing Dog Attacks and Biting Incidents
Responsible dog owners prevent their dogs from attacking/biting people or other animals by:
- keeping their dogs under effective control at all times.
- preventing their dogs from running at large.
- supervising their dogs when children are present.
- socializing their dogs at a young age so they are comfortable around people and other animals.
- training their dogs to obey basic commands.
- spaying/neutering their dogs to reduce aggression.
- taking steps to address aggressive and dominant behaviour in their dogs.
For more information on aggressive and dominant dogs visit the links listed below:
People can reduce the risk of being bit or attacked by a dog by:
- avoiding strange dogs.
- avoiding dogs that exhibit signs of fear or aggression.
- keeping a safe distance from dogs that are chained.
- treating dogs with respect and consideration.
- teaching children about appropriate behaviour around dogs.
- standing still "like a tree" with your arms held against your body if approached by an aggressive dog. If the dog attacks, lay on the ground "like a log" with your hands protecting your neck.
- backing away slowly from an aggressive dog. Never turn your back to the dog and/or attempt to run away.
Did You Know?
Most dog bite injuries received by children occur during play with a dog they know. For more information on children and dogs visit the link listed below:
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