MORE ADVICE ASSOCIATED WITH AGGRESSIVE BITERS

The continuation of the discussion on aggressive biting is in response to comments of many dog lovers, who having read the previous columns on Canine Aggressive Biters, were not bashful in stating that while it is all well and good to document the possible causes, what can one do if one is actually attacked, or even just feels threatened with growls and barks - which signals the dog’s intention to attack and bite.

If the mauling/fighting has already begun, it is difficult to physically stop it. Hosing the aggressor and the victim with water never seems to work, nor does shouting or beating the animal with a piece of wood. But intervene, you must.

Here are some pearls of wisdom that dog handlers/ breeders, colleague veterinarians, and publication on the issue have suggested. I am not endorsing specific suggested actions; some may work while other would not. I dare say it has to do with the type of advances/exhibitions of the attacking dog, and the situation that is unfolding. The following suggestions are not dogmatic nor represent infallible and guaranteed successful solutions, if one is attacked or threatened.

* Do not run or scream. Stand absolutely still, side on, legs together, with hands in fist to protect your fingers and arms protecting the face and neck. DO NOT MOVE. Dogs have a natural instinct to chase “prey” that run away from them.

* Do not stare at the dog directly in its eyes. Animals interpret stares as challenges.

* You may try a calm but loud shout of “NO” in a firm and confident tone of voice as the dog approaches. Many dogs do indeed recognise “NO” as an admonishment and will desist.

* If the dog stops, and even backs off, you must back away slowly and calmly.

* If the dog is bent on continuing its attack, try “feeding” him your jacket, handbag, briefcase, cell phone case, bicycle or any other object that you can place between yourself and the dog.

* If the dog knocks you over, roll your body into a tight ball with your knees against your chest and use your hands and arms to protect your face, ears and neck. Once again, the advice is to remain absolutely still.The parts of the body that are least problematic to recover from bites are the forearms and shins.

* If the dog bites, do not try to tug away forcefully as this will tear away muscles and flesh. You can attempt in that instant grab hold of its back legs and lift the entire body which will be sufficient to throw the attacker off-guard. Indeed, some of my clients have told me that they managed to grab hold of the dog’s tail and threw it a distance off, allowing time for the victim to be scuttled to a safe place. You may quite rightly ask when one is in a state of fear, agitation and panic, how can you remember, much less follow, these suggested actions. I do understand that viewpoint. However, a submissive and subordinating position, may be necessary to save your life. Further, these recommendations have successfully been implemented and documented.

I can share a true-life incident that occurred some years ago here in Guyana. A competent, experienced, and qualified Animal Health

Assistant, who lovingly and professionally cared for her Mastiffs, was knocked over by the pack of huge dogs who ebulliently, welcomingly and energetically (with no malice aforethought) jumped on her as she entered the gate. Within a flash, as if her falling to the ground triggered some latent instinct, the dogs’ behavior changed from playfulness to aggression. The owner did not panic. She managed to regain her upright position and loudly admonished the pack. Her firm, assertive and confident tone was effective. She had taken control of the situation which could have devolved into a less fortunate outcome. Her husband, un- derstandingly wanted to euthanise the entire pack. She was not in agreement. The dogs were sterilized subsequently.

As it relates to preventative measures to protect you, your neighbours, guests, passers-by, or other dogs, please note the following:

1. Ensure that your yard is appropriately fenced. The fence must be sturdy and impenetrable so that the dog(s) cannot jump over, bore through and/or dig a tunnel to escape under the structure.

2. Always have a commercially available aggression-prevention device easily and instantly available, to dent occurs or is potentially ment on canine aggression and expressions of canine viciousness is to state that the selection and training of dogs (Pet Care Article of March 5 and 12, 2023) begin with the education of the owners /breeders on how to be responsible caregivers. sively, since the beginning of this year, on selection pecially if potentially hood. We also wrote on the socialisation and training of your canine wards (Pet Care - March 12, 2023). Please vice proffered