National Dog Bite Prevention Week

There are millions of nice dogs out there but any one of them can bite at any time. It’s estimated that over 4 million people are bitten by dogs every year, and at least half of the people bitten are children.

Here are the facts:

• Almost 1 in 5 people bitten by dogs require medical attention.
• Children are by far the most common victims of dog bites and far more likely to be severely injured.
• Most dog bites affecting young children occur during everyday activities and while interacting with familiar dogs.
• Senior citizens are the second most common dog bite victims.

Dog bites can happen for many reasons. A dog might bite to defend itself or its territory, when scared or threatened or because they aren’t feeling well and want to be left alone. The key is to avoid risky situations such as:

-If the dog is not with its owner
-If the dog is with its owner but the owner does not give permission to pet the dog
-If a dog is sleeping or eating
-If a dog is sick or injured
-If a dog is resting with her puppies or seems very protective of her puppies and anxious about your presence
-If a dog is playing with a toy
-If a dog is growling or barking
-If a dog appears to be hiding or seeking time alone

Pay attention to a dog’s body language – most will give warning signs before the bite. Always better to be safe than sorry!