'I'm a dog behaviour expert and three things may save your life during an attack'
22.09.2023 - 13:01
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
A dog behavioural specialist has issued some life-saving advice if you find yourself being attacked by a canine.
The UK government has recently announced it will ban the sale of American XL Bully dogs in this country following a string of attacks and fatalities involving the pets.
Most recently, 52-year-old Iain Price was mauled by two dogs believed to be of that breed and was tragically confirmed dead at Birmingham's Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
Videos of the attack were circulating on social media, prompting concerned members of the public to wonder what they should do if they witness one - or if they're being mauled themselves.
According to one American Bully XL enthusiast, who spoke to the Guardian in August, these dogs are so strong that "no man on this earth could hold them".
To help, one expert has shared her advice on what to do in the event of an attack.
Jane Williams, committee member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC), told the Express about three key things that could save your life if you find yourself in that situation.
Jane says that if you're being attacked by a dog, it's important to identify if there are any safe spaces nearby.
"If you can get into a corner that will help from being attacked from multiple sides," she said.
"You also want to be beside or find some sort of physical barrier that can be placed between you and the dog."
Creating some distance, either through a door, wall or a large object that can be moved, may help you in this situation.
Putting an actual barrier in place may not always be possible, and won't always keep you safe as "a dog can come around the side of it".
In this event, distracting the dog may be a viable option to keep yourself, or the person who's being