This week, May 2oth through the 26th, is National Dog Bite Prevention Week hosted by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Did you know, 4.7 million people in this country are bitten by dogs each year? It’s a staggering number, but there are ways for you to avoid becoming another statistic. According to our Medical Director, Dr. Michael Bassett, bite prevention is key to keeping us and our canine companions safe. “It is important to realize, as dog owners, we have a responsibility to keep ourselves, our families, the public and other pets safe from being bitten. This is an important way to protect our dogs from being given up and even put to death,” says Dr. Bassett. According to the AVMA:
- 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
For more information on dog bite prevention, visit AVMA.org.