HAWAIIAN HUMANE SOCIETY

National Dog Bite Prevention week starts today, and in recognition of the occasion, the Hawaiian Humane Society is offering its Mr. Bugs Dog Bite Prevention program at 6 p.m. Wednesday. The free one-hour session focuses on preventive measures for when unexpectedly encountering an unfamiliar dog as well as understanding canine behavior.

"Many companies enroll in our dog prevention training, especially those with employees who visit people at their homes," says Neal Chung, an investigator with the Hawaiian Humane Society. "The course is also beneficial to the general public; it'll teach people what to do if ever confronted by a loose dog."

An estimated 40 percent of O'ahu families have dogs — that's more than 158,000 dogs in neighborhoods across the island. Although most dogs are sociable, enjoying and craving human contact, any canine can bite, regardless of size or breed.

When greeting a dog that is not yours, it's unwise to immediately approach and reach out to it, even if you have been previously introduced. The dog may perceive your approach as confrontational.

A relaxed dog typically holds its head up and mouth open with lips slightly pulled back, giving the impression of smiling. Its tail may be down and may wag back and forth. A wagging tail is often interpreted as happiness, but remain alert. Dogs that appear friendly may still be inclined to bite.

Children have a natural desire to pet animals. As kids are taught to practice safety in everyday situations, they should also learn to be safe around dogs. The most important lesson for children to learn is not to chase or tease dogs and to be careful around dogs they don't know.

Ask the dog's owner for permission before approaching the animal, even if you have met before. If the owner allows you to greet the pet, do not look directly into his eyes. Move slowly toward him with the back of your hand extended under his chin and allow the dog to sniff. Stroke him gently on the chest, shoulder or under the chin; refrain from patting him on the top of his head.

Angry dogs try to appear bigger than they are. They'll puff up their ears, fur and tail. Scared dogs do the opposite; they shrink to the ground. Angry or scared dogs should be avoided.

People should stay away from dogs that may be protecting something such as their food or toys. Don't pet sleeping dogs and never sneak up to play.

A child who finds an injured or lost dog should ask a parent or guardian for help.

If a strange dog approaches, remain still with your hands at your side; he will most likely sniff you and go away. You should never try to outrun a dog; back away slowly instead.

Responsible dog ownership is key in preventing bites.

"Start socializing your dog as soon as you bring him home," says Wendy Mah, director of Sirius Puppy Training & Behavioral Consulting. "Enroll him in an obedience class, then practice what you've learned in class. Encourage the entire family to participate in teaching him basic obedience commands. Integrate him to the family."

SMOKY

TAG NO. 07-7279

Poor little Smoky; he was returned to the shelter on April 13, and is feeling very "purr-anoid" right now. A black and grey tabby, Smoky is timid at first but sweet as sugar once you get to know him. If you give him a second chance, he promises to love you "fur-ever" and ever, amen!

KIRBY

TAG NO. 07-6745

Kirby was brought to us as a stray on April 7. He is mostly white with some light brown markings, and is very active and rambunctious for a 9-year-old. Kirby has been known to bark for attention but is a good dog at heart with an even "dis-paw-sition."

These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open weekdays from 11 a.m.7 p.m., weekends and holidays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For directions, special events and to see more pets available for adoption, visit www.hawaiianhumane.org or call 946-2187. Call immediately to report lost or found animals, ext. 4.