May 18 through 24 is National Dog Bite Prevention week.
Did you know that according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, each year, more than 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs?
Almost 20% of people bitten by dogs require medical attention. Every year more than 800,000 Americans receive medical attention for dog bites, and at least half of them are children.
Unfortunately, children are by far the most common victims of dog bites, and are far more likely to be severely injured. Senior citizens are the second most common dog bite victims.
Most dog bites affecting young children occur during everyday activities and while interacting with familiar dogs.
There are many things 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 and education are the best solutions for this public health crisis.
Please visit avma.org/dogbiteprevention to learn more about dog bites and how to prevent them.