By Julann Esse
Public Health Madison & Dane County

Every year, Public Health Madison & Dane County (PHMDC) responds to thousands of calls about stray animals and animal bites. The Animal Services officers who respond to those calls have some reminders about dog safety so the dogs and the people in our community can coexist peacefully.

Tags are important
Renew your dog’s license each year and always keep their license and ID tags on them. These tags are their first ticket back home in case of accidental separation. If your neighbor finds your dog, they can call the number on the ID tag 24/7 to quickly reunite you. Your dog’s license tag also immediately informs Animal Services officers and neighbors that your dog is vaccinated against rabies should a bite incident occur.

Prevent bites
Socializing your dog with other people and dogs, and training it, go a long way in preventing bites because they teach your dog appropriate behavior. So does avoiding situations you know are stressful to your dog, like being in a crowd or having visitors.

Even if you see the neighbor’s dog every day, always ask before petting it; and if you don’t know the dog, don’t pet it at all. Watch for body language that gives a warning that dogs may bite. They may stand stiff and still, stare at you, or hold their tail stiffly and up in the air.

If a bite occurs, treat it like a car accident — exchange names, phone numbers, rabies information and veterinarian name. Report the bite to PHMDC by calling Police and Fire Dispatch at 255-2345 and asking for Animal Services. This ensures that any necessary follow up can happen.

If we all follow this advice, we’ll have safer people and dogs, and a happier and safer neighborhood.