All counties in California have an animal control department where dog owners, victims of dog bites, and concerned citizens can obtain valuable information about dog bites and where all citizens can turn in emergency animal situations. Your local animal control department is a great resource for information on dog bites and dog bite emergencies.

If you experience or witness a dog bite emergency, it's important to contact emergency medical care and then report the report the bite. Medical professionals are required by law to report dog bites to the proper authorities. Even if no medical attention is required, it's important to report the bite because by law, animal bites must be investigated for everyone's protection. Bite investigation does not automatically mean the animal is impounded - it may only be that vaccination and licenses are verified.

Animal control also can provide valuable dog bite prevention advice for owners. Animal control websites provide important advice to both dog owners and citizens in their area, no matter where in California the dog resides or where the dog bite takes place.

There are a number of ways for dog owners to prevent dog bites and act responsibly:

• Do not play aggressive games with your dog
• Be cautious with your dog in new situations
• Never leave your dog alone with a small child
• Keep your dog up-to-date on all vaccinations and shots
• Keep your dog in a locked fenced enclosure
• Control your dog with a leash when away from home or walking
• Spay or neuter your dog to reduce their desire to roam
• Properly train and socialize your dog

Concerned citizens can benefit from the following animal control information to avoid being bitten by a dog:

• If you are knocked down by a dog, roll into a ball and do not move
• Never allow a child to play with a dog without adult supervision
• Do not make direct eye contact with a dog
• Do not disturb a dog when it is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies
• Never pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first
• Never approach an unfamiliar dog
• Never run from a dog and scream
• Stay motionless if approached by an unfamiliar dog

By following animal control information, you can avoid dog bite incidents that can cause extensive harm to yourself and others. For additional dog bite resources and for information on your rights as a dog bite victim, make sure to contact your local California county animal control or a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer immediately.