Unfortunately, dog bites have become a growing problem in Wichita Falls and across Texoma.
In March, we reported on a cyclist who was attacked by dogs while riding on Kemp. Children, the elderly and postal workers are the three groups who are most at risk for being attacked by dogs, so citizens are encouraged to keep their pets under control at all times. KFDX News Channel Three recently reported on the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA’s) National Dog Bite Prevention Week.
Dog Bite Prevention Tips
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer a wide variety of tips for dog bite prevention. Dog owners are encouraged to spay and neuter their pets which can help to reduce potentially aggressive tendencies. They also offer fantastic information for families who are interested in buying or adopting the perfect dog and tips for safe interactions between children and pets. The CDC also wants to remind people that dog bites are largely a preventable public health issue. At the end of the day, it’s up to responsible owners to keep their dogs under control. It doesn’t matter how responsible you are with your own pet, if somebody else allows their dog to run loose, you or your child can get attacked.
Dog Bites in the United States
- Approximately 4.5 million people are attacked my dogs every year.
- Nearly one in five dog bite victims require medical attention for their injuries.
- About half of those injured are children.
- Dog bites were the 11th leading cause of nonfatal injury to children ages one to four from 2003 to 2012.
- 66 percent of bites among children happen to the head and neck areas.
- 27,000 people had to undergo reconstructive surgery for dog bites in 2012.
- Children, age’s five to nine, are most at risk for dog-bite related injuries.
After a Dog Bite
Dog bite victims may be facing extensive medical bills for multiple reconstructive surgeries. If dogs aren’t kept up-to-date on vaccinations, victims may be looking at a variety of antibiotic and vaccine protocols too. An aggressive and violent attack by one of “man’s best friends” can also leave victims with painful memories of the attack and a future distrust of potentially friendly pets. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, contact the experienced team at the Altman Legal Group at 940-761-4000 for a free consultation today.