DOG BITE AWARENESS & PREVENTION CIRCULAR

In the interest of student safety and well-being, the school is issuing the following guidelines on Dog Bite Awareness, Prevention, and Response Procedures, in accordance with the DOE Circular F.No. DDE/PA/CTB/2025-26/1771. All students, parents, teaching and non-teaching staff are advised to read and adhere to the instructions carefully.

UNDERSTANDING DOG BEHAVIOUR

Learning to recognize basic dog behaviour can help prevent incidents:

  • Aggressive / Fearful Dog
     Tucked tail, growling, stiff body posture
  • Relaxed Dog
     Loose tail wagging, calm and friendly posture
  • Alert Dog
     Barking to warn or protect territory

DO’S AND DON’TS

✅ DO’S

  • Remain calm and avoid sudden movements if approached by a dog.
  • Walk away slowly; do not panic.
  • If a dog approaches aggressively, stand still “like a tree”.
  • Maintain a safe distance from dogs, especially when they are eating or sleeping.
  • Report aggressive, injured, or stray dogs to the concerned authorities.
  • Dispose of garbage in closed bins to avoid attracting dogs.

❌ DON’TS

  • Do not tease, shout at, or provoke dogs.
  • Do not throw stones or objects at dogs.
  • Do not run or scream near dogs, as this may trigger a chase instinct.
  • Do not disturb dogs while they are eating or sleeping.
  • Do not touch puppies, as mother dogs may become aggressive.
  • Avoid loud noises or sudden gestures near dogs.

STEPS TO FOLLOW IN CASE OF A DOG BITE

A. DOG BITE INSIDE SCHOOL PREMISES

Immediate Action by the Student

  1. Inform the nearest teacher or staff member immediately.
  2. Stay calm and avoid panic.
  3. Move to a safe area away from the dog.

Action by School Staff

1. First Aid

  • Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
  • Apply antiseptic (Betadine/Dettol) if available.
  • Cover the wound with a clean cloth or bandage.
  • Do not apply a tight bandage.

2. Immediate Intimation

  • Inform the Principal / Vice Principal / Headmistress / Coordinator.
    Inform parents/guardians immediately.
  • Notify the School Nodal Officer.
  • Inform the School Clinic/Medical Officer.

3. Medical Assistance

  • Escort the student to the nearest clinic/hospital/health centre.
  • Ensure the student is accompanied until the parent/guardian arrives.
  • Ensure that anti-rabies treatment is initiated within 24 hours.

4. Documentation

  • Record complete details of the incident (date, time, location, description of the dog).
  • Fill out the incident report form.
  • Maintain medical records.

5. Follow-Up

  • Report the incident to the local municipal authority (MCD/NDMC).
  • Inform the Caretaking Branch, Directorate of Education (DOE).
  • Ensure completion of the prescribed vaccination schedule.

B. DOG BITE OUTSIDE SCHOOL PREMISES

Immediate Action by Student / Parent

1. Wound Care

  • Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for 15 minutes (this is the most critical step).
  • Apply antiseptic if available.

2. Seek Medical Attention

  • Visit the nearest hospital/PHC/health centre without delay.

3. Medical Treatment

  • The doctor will assess the bite category.
  • Begin anti-rabies vaccination as advised.
  • Administer Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG), if prescribed.
  • Complete the full vaccination course.

4. Inform the School

  • Inform the class teacher on the next working day.
  • Submit the medical certificate.
  • Share the vaccination schedule with the school.

5. Report to Authorities

  • Inform the local civic body about the incident location.
  • Notify animal welfare authorities, if required.

6. Follow Medical Advice

  • Complete all doses strictly as per schedule.
  • Preserve the vaccination card.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHILDREN

  • Never approach stray dogs, even if they appear friendly.
  • Avoid playing in areas where dogs congregate.
  • If a dog approaches, stand completely still.
  • Avoid direct eye contact with the dog.
  • Keep your hands close to your body.
  • Call an adult immediately for help.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

  • Prevention is always better than cure.
  • All dog bites are medical emergencies.
  • Never delay medical treatment.
  • Rabies vaccination is life-saving.

This circular is issued in the interest of safety and awareness for all students, teaching and non-teaching staff. Strict compliance is expected.

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