Dog bites are more common than most people realize, and nearly all of them are preventable. This week on The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, welcome back longtime friend and Certified Animal Behavior Consultant, Steve Dale, to talk about his new children’s book, Ask the Dog, and why it may be one of the most important dog bite prevention tools veterinarians can share.

Each year, an estimated 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs, with hundreds of thousands requiring medical care. Steve explains why focusing only on asking the owner misses the most critical step: asking the dog. From subtle body language to displacement behaviors we routinely ignore, dogs often tell us when they are uncomfortable long before a bite happens.

The conversation explores why hugging dogs, reaching hands toward faces, and forcing interactions can increase risk, even with familiar pets. The group also discusses the powerful role veterinary technicians and veterinarians play in translating dog behavior for clients, and how early education can reshape the next generation’s relationship with dogs.

This episode is a must-listen for veterinary teams, pet parents, and anyone who believes preventing dog bites starts with listening better.

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