As we move into summer, more people will be outside with their dogs. While sunshine and exercise are good for animals and humans, dog owners need to make sure that their dogs don’t harm anyone.
As the number of canine pets rises (about 90 million in the U.S. alone), so does the number of dog bites. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), there are millions of dog bites every year. While many of these go unrecorded, the same isn’t true for fatal dog attacks, which have roughly doubled in the past decade.
Simple steps for dog owners
Dog owners play a critical role in preventing their dog from biting or attacking. Keeping them on a leash while they’re out is key. That includes watching them. People who walk their dogs while engrossed in their phones put people and dogs in danger.
When dogs are outside, they should be behind a sturdy fence or wall that they can’t jump over. That’s for everyone’s safety – including the dogs’.
It’s especially important for owners to closely supervise their dogs while they’re around children. They’re the most likely dog bite victims – and often the ones most seriously injured.
The head of the AVMA notes, “Almost all dog bites are preventable, and prevention begins with education….Responsible pet ownership and respectful interactions are key to strengthening the human-animal bond and reducing the risk of injury.”
It’s important to remember that dogs don’t bite for no reason. Often, it’s because they think they’re protecting their person or another pet – or even their toys or food. They bite when they’re afraid or stressed. Dogs who are sick or in pain can also bite if someone is trying to play with them or get too close. Everyone should recognize these signs in a dog.
Supervised socialization is a good way to get a dog used to being around people they don’t know, whether it’s a repair person in their home or a neighbor out for a run. Sometimes, it’s necessary to invest in training.
“Dog bite prevention is a community effort”
Of course, everyone needs to use common sense when they encounter a dog who isn’t familiar with them – and even those who are. As the AVMA president says, “Dog bite prevention is a community effort.”
A dog bite – even from a small dog – can be serious and costly. The dog owner’s homeowners’ insurance may cover it. However, it’s dog bite victims can and should seek compensation for medical bills and other costs and damages, with legal guidance. Of course, prevention of dog bites is a far better option.
