With election season comes the omnipresent campaign volunteers, seemingly located on every corner and knocking on every door. But debates over political ideologies aren’t the most dangerous thing lying behind the average door. Instead lurks a much more potentially dangerous threat: the family dog.
As anyone with a dog knows, strangers on the porch can lead to loud barking followed by sprints to the front door. If that door isn’t secured, or if the dog somehow gets out while the owner is speaking to the volunteer, chaos can wreak havoc. Even the most well-behaved, trained dog can overreact to the presence of a stranger. Given the size and ferocity of some breeds, these door to door campaigners face the very real risk of being bit by a pet dog.
When you answer your door over the next few months, be cognizant of where your dog might be within the house. Consider stepping outside to speak with the person, closing your door behind you to prevent the pooch from escaping. Another option is to keep a screen door closed between you and your visitor, with the dog safely secured inside. Whatever your strategy, keeping distance between the stranger and your pet is key.
For those volunteers heading out into the field over the next few months, consider that any yard could have a dog loose inside its fence. Should a dog launch itself at you, remain calm – never try to outrun an angry animal. Instead, slowly back away from the animal while avoiding eye contact. Once the dog sees you aren’t a threat, it’s likely they’ll back off.
Virginia Dog Bite Lawyers
If you’ve been bitten or attacked by someone else’s dog, you have legal rights. Contact an experienced Virginia dog bite lawyer to discuss your situation. To setup a free consultation call 877-544-5323.
