For many people, a pet is like a member of the family. But the family dog's bite could very well be worse than his bark. According to experts, 30 percent of all dog bites are inflicted by the family pet. Children, adults and the elderly are all potential victims. To deal with issues of community safety and public health associated with dog bites, initiatives, such as the National Dog Bite Prevention Week, were established.
Founded in 1993 by the Humane Society of the United States, National Dog Bite Prevention Week was created to promote dog bite prevention, education and awareness. In 2011, the American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) and the United States Postal Service (USPS) led the charge, and medical organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM) joined the cause.
Dog bites are a serious matter. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4.5 million people are bitten by man's best friend each year and one in five of these bite victims require medical attention. The ASPS reports that nearly 33,000 reconstructive procedures were performed last year on dog bite victims. Injuries can range from abrasions, lacerations and punctures to fractured bones, infections, disfigurement and death.
While educational media and materials are available, many health prevention and safety organizations offer basic tips for avoiding dog bites. For strange dogs, people should educate themselves and their children to recognize warning signs. Dogs that persistently bark, growl and even back away are agitated and uncomfortable and may be prone to attack. Interfering with a canine's meal, rest, puppies, or protected area may put a person at risk. Running away from a dog, screaming at a dog or approaching unfamiliar dogs are all things to avoid.
Thousands of people are treated each day in emergency rooms as a result of dog bite-related injuries. Not all dog bites are preventable, but taking precautions can reduce the risk. For those victims attacked by a stranger's dog, medical bills, lost time from work, and other complications can arise. In these cases, legal advice from an attorney can help protect your rights.
