(COLORADO SPRINGS/PUEBLO, Colo.) —The Humane Society of Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR) is reminding individuals how to keep safe and avoid accidents with pets this holiday season. Each year, HSPPR receives reports of bites all over the areas they cover. According to Cody Costra, HSPPR Public Relations Manager, it is possible the risk of animal bites increases at times when more people are out and about and usually relates back to spring break, summer, and over the holidays when friends and family visit. "Animals get stressed out in new situations and sometimes the hustle and bustle can be too much for even the most well-adjusted pet," said Costra. Three zip codes, two in El Paso County and one in Pueblo, had the highest number of bites that HSPPR's team covers and include the following numbers from 2024: 80909: 20 bites 80916: 19 bites 81001: 19 bites In November, HSPPR's Youth Education Manager and her dog Rigby visited a preschool located in one of the "high bite" zip codes where they taught animal safety to kiddos. "Teaching children about responsibility, empathy, and compassion toward animals is not only important—it's powerful," wrote HSPPR via Facebook. "When we inspire kids to be kind and respectful to animals, we're setting them on a path to become shining examples of positivity. These lessons extend beyond our furry friends; they help shape future generations who will care for not just animals but also each other and our planet." When visiting family members with pets, it may be best to let them get adjusted to you. Although it may be fun to have a new animal to pet or spend time with, pets need space and time to get used to new additions. "As hard as it can be, the safest way to introduce yourself to new animals is don’t," said Costra. "Generally, ignoring pets in people’s homes will give them the time and space to decide if they’d like to interact with you." Some advice HSPPR offers when interacting with a new pet in someone else's home includes: Keeping a neutral body position Avoid direct eye contact Speak in a natural tone Avoid feeding pets in other people's homes, some will react by guarding a high-value item Avoid putting your hand in a dog's face Contrary to popular opinion, waving a hand in front of a dog's face is not the best option, and can even lead to a trip to the hospital. "Despite what we’ve all been told, avoid putting your hand in a dog’s face, we promise they can smell you before you even come near! A hand rushing toward them may startle them and illicit a bite that neither of you expected." After all, pets are family and although you may want to include them it is important to remember that a pet's mechanics for handling stimulating situations are limited to body language, and if pushed to their limits, that includes biting according to Costra. "It’s also important to let guests know what your pet dislikes and make sure that they are contained if they are the type of pet to run for the door," Costra added. "If your pet is highly anxious in novel situations, please reach out to your veterinarian and a reputable trainer sooner rather than later to help them through the extra stress that the holidays bring." And an extra tip to those pet owners who will be hosting these holidays: give your pet time to get adjusted. Give them a safe, quiet space to get away from the noises, sights, and smells where they can decompress.