BEWARE OF THE DOG. We all love our dogs, but for different reasons some of them bite, sometimes causing very minor injuries and sometimes very serious injuries. More than 4.5 million dog bites are reported each year in the United States. It is estimated that this reported number is just a fraction of the actual dog bites that occur yearly. Of this verified number, 60 percent of the victims are children. There are 334,000 emergency room visits and 20 deaths annually from dog bites. Children are bitten on the head, neck and face 73% of the time. The most likely victims are usually between the ages of 5 to 9. It is important to be aware of free roaming dogs along your jogging route or your child's path to school. For your safety, please review the following tips:

How to avoid being bitten

Don't run past a dog. Its natural instinct is to chase and catch prey.

If a dog threatens you, don't scream. Avoid eye contact. Try to remain motionless until the dog leaves, then back away slowly until the dog is out of sight.

Don't approach a strange dog, especially one that is tied or confined.

Always let a dog see and sniff you before you attempt to pet it.

Don't settle for sorry

Homeowner's insurance policies generally cover the cost of all expenses incurred from an animal attack. There is a four year statute of limitations on an animal attack and may be extended even longer in the case of a minor victim. A large percentage of dog attacks result in permanent disfigurement or scarring. A pet owner is responsible for all injuries caused by the pet. Fortunately, most, it not all, homeowner's insurance policies cover the cost of all expenses incurred from a pet attack. You don't have to suffer an actual bite to file a claim. Any injury sustained in trying to avoid an attack can also be compensated for. The attack does not have to have been reported to the authorities, but it helps. If you have questions regarding your liability or your financial exposure as a pet owner, contact an attorney. To limit possible legal problems, review the guild lines on how to be a responsible dog owner.

In the event of a bite

If you or someone you know is bitten, seek medical attention immediately. Get all facts associated with the bite including time, date, witnesses and other circumstances. Include these in a diary or log. Take photographs of the dog, the injuries, the victim and the area. Keep track of the progress of the injuries, scarring, etc. Contact experienced legal counsel.

How to be a responsible dog owner

Spay or neuter your dog. Un-neutered dogs are more likely to bite

Obedience training can teach your dog proper behavior and help you control your dog in any situation

Provide your dog with some freedom either in the house or in the yard. Dogs who spend long hours chained our in the yard are more likely to become aggressive.

Don't let you dog roam freely. Do let your dog socialize with your family. Keep your dog well fed with plenty of water at all times.

Don't let your child take mail from your letter carrier in the presence of your dog. Your dog's instinct is to protect the family.