Dog Bite Prevention

Did you know that ...

 

• 4.7 million people in this country are bitten by dogs every year
• children are by far the most common victims
• 800,000 Americans receive medical attention for dog bites each year
• children are far more likely to be severely injured; approximately 400,000 receive medical attention every year
• 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

There are a number of things that you can do to avoid dog bites, ranging from properly training and socializing your pet to educating your children on how, or if, they should approach a dog. Information is one of the best preventions.

 

How can you protect your family?

 

Be cautious around strange dogs, and treat your own pet with respect. Because children are the most common victims of dog bites, parents and caregivers should:

• NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.
• Be alert for potentially dangerous situations.
• Teach children – including toddlers – to be careful around pets. Children must learn not to approach strange dogs or try to pet dogs through fences. Teach children to ask permission from the dog's owner before petting the dog.

 

Dog Bite Emergencies

 

If you are bitten by a dog, here is a checklist of things you should do:

 

• If the dog's owner is present, request proof of rabies vaccination, and get the owner's name and contact information.
• Clean bite wound with soap and water as soon as possible.
• Consult your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if it's after office hours.
• Contact the dog's veterinarian to check vaccination records.