It sounds hard to believe, but dog bites comprise the second most common childhood injury requiring emergency-room care.

What to Do if Attacked

If the dog does attack, "feed" him your jacket, purse, bicycle, or anything that you can put between yourself and it.

If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears and remain motionless. Do not scream or roll around. The face is the most common area for attack, particularly the lips, nose, and cheeks.

Some people, such as mail carriers, carry protective devices, such as pepper spray, to ward off attacks. One deterrent product that does not physically harm the dog is called the "Dazer." It produces ultrasound that can ward off a dog within a 20 foot radius.

For more information, please read How to Protect Yourself From Dog Bites.