Miami-Dade County Animal Services shares dog bite prevention tips

In light of recent reported animal bites to humans, Miami-Dade County Animal Services Department (Animal Services) is sharing tips on how to prevent dog bites and promoting responsible pet ownership. According to Department data, there were 2,031 animal bites to humans reported in the Miami-Dade County from January 1st, through December 31, 2022. During the same period in 2023, there were 2,167 animal bites to humans reported. This represents an increase of 136 reported incidents or .06 % more reported animal bites in the County. To date, in 2024, there have been 253 reported dog bites to humans. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year. While most dog bites are preventable, they can cause serious injuries and even death. Additionally, pet owners can be held liable in these incidents. That is why it is important for pet owners and the public to know what they can do to help prevent dog bites. 

The following safety tips can help prevent dog bite incidents:  
• Steer clear. It is best to steer clear of dogs who are loose, behind a fence or tied up. Avoid dogs who are cowering, barking, or growling.  
• Stay calm.  If an unknown dog approaches you, stay quiet and still. Do not run or scream. Calmly try to steer yourself into a safe area away from the loose dog(s).  
• Ask first! When meeting an unfamiliar dog, do not reach out to pet them. Ask the pet parent, “May I pet your dog?” A strange hand in a dog’s face may scare them, leading to a bite. 
• Use the proper approach. If you receive permission to pet a dog, let them sniff your closed hand. Then, you may proceed to pet their shoulders or chest. Avoid petting the top of the dog’s head. If the dog looks uncomfortable, speak happily to the dog and casually remove your hand. Resist moving abruptly. 
• Never face to face. Never put your face directly in front of or near the dog’s face.
• Always supervise children and dogs. Never leave a baby or young child alone with a dog. Teach your children to treat your dog gently and with respect, giving the dog their own space and opportunities to rest. 
• Always leash dogs. When in public, always keep your dog on a leash for the safety of your dog and those around them.  Remember that Miami-Dade County law requires pets to always be leashed when in public. 
• Safeguard your property. Pet owners should check their fencing regularly and ensure it properly safeguards their pets from getting out. 
• Post signage. Post clearly visible signage to advise visitors or passersby that there are dogs on your property.  
• Be careful. Use caution when you are entering and exiting your home or yard to ensure pets do not get out. 

“We hope that by sharing these helpful tips on dog bite prevention, we can help prevent injuries and promote positive interactions between people and pets,” said Annette Jose, Animal Services Director. “We’re committed to ensuring the safety of our community while also promoting responsible pet ownership.” 

The tips on dog bite prevention are just one of the many ways that Animal Services is working to promote the well-being of animals and the community. We encourage everyone to join us in this effort by learning more about dog bite prevention and responsible pet ownership.

For more information about Animal Services’ programs and initiatives please visit www.miamidade.gov/animals or call 311.

About Miami-Dade County Animal Services 
Every year Miami-Dade County Animal Services Department (Animal Services) takes in approximately 30,000 to 36,000 lost, abandoned, injured, ill, or abused dogs and cats. Every day, Animal Services staff works diligently to find life-long homes for these abandoned animals by facilitating onsite adoptions, hosting offsite adoptions at events and locations throughout the community, and working collaboratively with rescue organizations, volunteers, and adoption partners.