Dog Bites Statistics
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year in the U.S. Out of those 4.5 million, 800,000 needed to receive medical attention. However, half of these bites are received by children. This concludes that children are most likely to be bit by a dog.
Dog Bites: Why do they happen?
Every dog has the capability to bite and there are many different reasons as to why a dog may feel the need to bite someone. The most common reason is that it feels stressed and overwhelmed, making it seem like it may be in danger. They also can bite if they are feeling sick or injured. When a dog is not feeling its best, it is in the owners’ best interest to leave the dog by itself due to the dog’s already high-stress levels. On the other hand, dogs may become very excited, especially puppies, and want to nip and bite as a way to play. Riling up a dog through a tug of war or wrestling may lead to accidental nips or bites that could potentially harm someone especially a young child.
How to Prevent a Dog Bite:
- Educate your family
- Since it is so common for young children to get bit, parents must be vigilant in teaching their kids how to approach and probably treat their pet. Accidents can happen, but the more educated children are, the less likely a dog would feel the need to act out against them.
- Socialize your dog
- Keeping your dog used to meeting new people is something that is very important. Having them being exposed to different environments is essential for control over your dog in situations that they may not feel comfortable in if they weren’t exposed to large groups and children as a puppy.
- Be a Responsible Owner
- Lastly, the AMVA encourages every owner to be an attentive owner. Proper training, physical activity such as walks, and spaying your pet are steps that dog owners should consider taking to prevent risky situations that can lead to dog biting.
Taking these steps prevents serious accidents and is an efficient way you can keep yourself, your children, and your dog, safe.
Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer at DLP for a Free Consultation
Those injured in dog bite attacks need top-notch legal representation. The trial lawyers at Dougherty Leventhal & Price, LLP are ready to help. With nine (9) attorneys, four (4) offices, and decades of experience, DLP has handled big cases against the biggest corporations. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite attack, call DLP for a free consultation. Remember— Injury? Call DLP! (570) C-A-L-L-D-L-P.
Source: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/dog-bite-prevention
