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The most important rule about staying safe around dogs: Always ask permission from a dog's owner before you touch it! If the owner is not right there for you to ask, leave the dog alone!

How Can I Know That a Dog Feels Upset?

Watch and listen for the warnings that a dog will give you. If his ears are laid back against his head, or his legs are very stiff, he is probably warning you that he feels threatened and will protect himself if he must. If the hair on his back is standing up, that is another warning. If a dog is growling or barking with his teeth showing, that dog is ready to bite.

A dog's warning signs mean that you are doing something the dog doesn't like. So stop doing that! Pay attention to warnings, and if you see them, you should:

• Freeze.
• Count to five, slowly and silently.
• Move away very slowly, sideways or backwards.
• If the dog jumps on you, act like a rock: Curl up into a ball and cover your face and head with your arms.

DON'T stare at the dog — that means, "I dare you to bite me!" DON'T run, jump, or wave your arms around. DON'T scream. DON'T throw anything at the dog or hit him.

What If I Get Bitten?

If you are bitten by ANY animal, you should:

• Go to your doctor.
• Wash the wound with warm soap and water.
• Write down the size, type and color of the animal. Was he wearing a collar? Any identification tags? Where were you when you were bitten? Where did the animal go?
• Report all of this information to the animal control office in your county or city.