Unfortunately, federal health agencies have all but abandoned long-term testing of chemicals on animals. This type of testing has been only method known to accurately predict a substance from causing cancer in humans. The authors contend that change was brought about by barrage of public relations produced by big chemical industry players. Animal-rights advocates are no match to manufacturers' clout and financial advantage. This was during time when information came out that manufacturers' products cause rat tumors and abnormalities.

On EPA's part, instead of conducting their own tests, they often evaluate and rely on tests that have been designed and conducted by chemical manufacturers themselves. On other occasions, it was found out that EPA evaluated tests conducted by companies hired by manufacturers.

In effect, federal government provides opportunity for these chemical manufacturers to test toxic effects of their own products and produce results that are advantageous to their cause. One review provided a perfect description: "It is a fox-guarding-the-henhouse system that lends itself to manipulation and even outright fraud."

In addition, dogs may confuse children's movements and behavior and mistake them for prey. It is better to take precautionary measures now than be sorry later on. Below are a few instructions that parents should teach their children:

Not every dog that wags its tail is friendly. Do not approach or play with a dog unless an adult is present. Do not approach a stray dog, or a dog you do not know. Get permission first from dog's owner before approaching it. When you approach a dog, be sure that owner is present. Remain calm and still when a dog approaches you. Do not tease dogs, or make loud noises around a dog. Avoid staring into a dog's eyes. Do not try to help an injured dog. Get a grown-up to help you. Don't put your hand between two dogs. If dog is behind a fence, do not reach through fence. Keep your face away from dogs. If you got scared by a dog, do not run away, scream or shout. If a dog knocks you over, stay on ground. Stay completely still. Protect your head, face, neck and arms. Tell a grown-up right away. If a dog bites, try to give something else for dog to bite or chew. Give your backpack or jacket. Protect your head and face. As always, tell a grown-up right away.

Special Circumstances Have you noticed that paperboy riding a bike is always attacked by dogs in your neighborhood? There are special cases when dogs readily attack people. Rapid movement attracts a dog's attention that's why it is best to take caution when engaged in certain activities.

Riding a bicycle, jogging, running and rollerblading are some of activities that regularly get dogs excited. People who engage in these activities are at risk of being bitten. You should always try to keep a safe distance from dogs, including those that are on leashes.

When in a bicycle, not only do you have risk of getting bitten, you also may be injured if you hit a dog as it runs in front of you. So if you know that you're approaching a place where there are dogs around, it is best to steer away or keep a good distance between yourself and any dogs.

If you are approached by an unrestrained dog when you're jogging, running or rollerblading, do not try to outrun it--- it is probably faster than you. Just stay still until it losses interest in you.