Dog Bite Prevention

Some say there is an epidemic of dog bites.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association:

• Each year, more than 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs.
• Almost one in five people bitten by dogs require medical attention.
• Every year, more than 800,000 Americans receive medical attention for dog bites; at least half of them are children.
• Children are, by far, the most common victims of dog bites and are 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

Others argue, considering the number of dogs there are in American (nearly 80 million, according to American Pet Products Association), and that most bites don’t require hospital attention, there actually aren’t all that many bites.

Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Amy Pike talks about how most bites can be prevented, and she offers some helpful tips. This video is important, particularly for families with children.