How to Be a Responsible Dog Owner

If you own a dog, you have an increased liability risk. According to DogsBite.com, about 1,000 people daily require medical care as a result of dog bite injuries in the United States.

Dogs, as animals, are likely to react with a bite when they feel at risk or protective. Even the most careful pet owner should have adequate home insurance to cover such dog bites. This coverage can protect you in case your dog bites someone else who then seeks compensation.

What You Need to Do to Avoid Dog Bites

Responsible dog owners know that preventing dog bites is important. There is no absolute solution to stop them from occurring. There are several things you can do to minimize these risks, however. 

Consider the following tips:

• Always keep your pet on a leash when outside of the home. Even if the pet is in your yard, it should be on a leash. Keep a collar on your pet, too. This provides a way for you to hold the pet.
• Train your dog. Professional training is always encouraged because it ensures your pet learns proper commands for various situations. Your dog trainer can help you learn how to defuse situations as well.
• Don’t play fight with your dog at home. Even if it is harmless to you, these same actions can become aggressive with unknown people.
• Don’t allow strangers to pet your dog, even when you are walking it. Unknown humans are a threat to some dogs, causing them to lash out and bite.
• Keep your pet active and mentally acute. That means spending time with the pet, playing with them, teaching them, and keeping the pet busy. Aggressive behavior can stem from a bored or neglected animal.

Most importantly, be responsible for your pet by being attentive. Don’t let your dog out of your sight when it is outside of the home. When visitors arrive at your home, move the dog to a safe place. Don’t overcrowd the pet. Don’t encourage or allow the pet to jump on others. Even small dogs can be a risk.

If a non-family member suffers a dog bite, your home insurance may cover the costs of any claims filed against you. Preventing this from happening is always the better solution, though.

If you want to make sure that your El Paso home insurance has dog bite coverage, call us today at 915-562-0009.