Illinois is filled with tons of dogs, and if you’re a dog lover, it’s tempting to want to pet every dog that you see. From the outside, dogs may seem approachable and friendly, but you never know how they are going to act when you get close to them. Here are some tips to avoid an animal attack in Joliet while simultaneously enjoying the company of the animal.
Put Yourself in the Dog’s Position
If you were standing on the street and a stranger came up to you and started to put their hands on you, it would make you uncomfortable and on-edge. Some dogs don’t mind the attention, but some may be triggered by strangers coming up to them.
Approaching the Dog Safely
As a general rule of thumb, don’t pet any dog without the permission of the owner first. If you see a dog that is tied up outside or not standing directly next to their owner, don’t approach the dog until you have direct permission from the owner. Even after the owner has given you permission to pet the dog, look at the dog’s body language to ensure they seem relaxed. Start by stroking the dog’s shoulder or chest rather than their face. The dog will likely turn away or become disinterested when they’ve had enough petting.
Other Tips
Don’t make sudden movements around dogs that you don’t know. This could trigger them and make them feel uncomfortable. Also, keep in mind that every dog has their own personality, so if they are giving you the cold shoulder, don’t take it personally!
If you or a loved one has been a victim of an animal attack in Joliet, please contact our team at Block, Klukas, Manzella & Shell, P.C. today!
