No Bites, No Scratches, No Problems

According to the text, what do millions of Americans share their homes with?

• big, brown dogs

• wolves

• dogs and cats

• cats only

What does the text describe in the section titled "Talk to Me, Fido"?

• how dogs love their owners

• why it's important to have a dog

• how to treat a dog that doesn't know you

• where to buy dog and cat toys

Read the following sentences from the text.

"Cat scratches and bites don't get the same attention that dog attacks do. Cats are small and not as strong as large dogs, and they don't maul people. But cats can still cause injury."

What can you conclude based on this information?

• Both dogs and cats can hurt people.

• Dogs hurt more people than cats do.

• Cats hurt more people than dogs do.

• Cat bites hurt more than dog bites.

Based on the text, what might you do before you get a pet?

• pick different colored clothing to wear depending on the type of pet you get

• look into the pet shop you are buying your pet from to make sure the pet is healthy

• learn about their behaviors so you can keep yourself and others safe around your pet

• use a laser or flashlight to create a spot of light on the floor in a zigzag pattern

What is the main idea of this text?

• You shouldn't try to hold a cat that is frightened because it may hurt you as it tries to protect itself.

• If your dog enjoys playing with a tennis ball, make sure to replace it when it starts to fall apart.

• Dogs and cats are both common pets but dogs are the safer choice if you don't know which to choose.

• Dogs and cats are animals that may attack you and you can stay safe by learning about their behavior.

Read the following sentences from the text.

"Cats are small and not as strong as large dogs, and they don't maul people. But cats can still cause injury. They want to protect themselves, and their claws and teeth are what they use."

As used in these sentences, what does the word "injury" mean?

• comfort or rest to the body

• hurt or damage to the body

• hunger or thirst in the body

• disease or sickness in the body

According to the text, you should ​ (a)   if you are approached by a strange dog with your by your side.​

• stand absolutely still
• run away quickly
• yell loudly
• kick the dog

Why might knowing the natural behavior of a dog or cat keep you safe from bites and scratches? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.