To address these problems, the AVMA has joined forces with State Farm Insurance Companies and the institute on a campaign to raise awareness about dog bites and promote responsible pet ownership. The title is meant to make its point through irony. Below the title are five puppies that appear cute and docile, but as the brochure explains, any dog has the potential to bite, if provoked. The focus of the campaign is on prevention, thus, the campaign is honing in on awareness training, how to avoid dog bites, and what to do if bitten.
Dog bites are the number one health problem of children, outnumbering measles and mumps combined.
Because children make up 60 percent of dog bite victims, a large part of the campaign will focus on teaching children how to interact with dogs and teaching dog owners responsible ownership techniques. The brochure further suggests that an infant or small child should never be left alone with a dog, even if the owner believes his pet is completely docile. Children should also be taught not to approach unfamiliar dogs. The brochure offers other tips to prevent or stop a dog attack. The less threat the dog sees, the less chance of an attack.