Dog bite incidents continue to be headline news, especially when a tragic mauling or fatality occurs. Most dogs involved in a serious bite incident have a history of aggressive behavior that should have served as a warning. While the majority of dog bite injuries are comparatively minor, the consequences are felt by dog bite victims and dog owners alike.
Over half of dog bite victims are children. It is truly unfortunate that physical and/or emotional scars frequently mar childhood memories, which ideally should include the joy of canine companionship.
Some 800,000 to 1 million of the 4.7 million persons bitten by dogs annually in the United States require medical treatment. The number of uninsured people in California averaged 19.2% during the 3-year period ending in 2002.
Insurance companies paid $250 million for dog bite liability claims nationally in 1997. Some insurers are charging higher premiums or refusing to write policies for homeowners with what they determine to be aggressive dogs.
A dog owner in California is subject to a civil standard of strict liability when their dog bites a person. The dog owner may also be subject to criminal penalties and the dog may be subject to abatement as a public nuisance.
The tragedy of dog bite incidents is not only in the consequences but also in the fact that most incidents could have been prevented. What can we as dog owners do? An attitude of “not my dog” is unrealistic and could lead to heartache.
Public health authorities, veterinarians, humane organizations, and insurance providers all agree on the following tips to prevent your dog from adding to the statistics:
- Spay or neuter your dog. A spayed or neutered dog is 3 times less likely to bite someone.
- Do not ignore signs of aggression. Guarding food, toys, or a coveted easy chair is a red flag. Seek professional advice from a veterinarian, an animal behaviorist, or a qualified dog trainer.
- Train your dog to respond to basic obedience commands.
- Socialize your dog by introducing it to different people in various settings so that it becomes used to the proper way to interact with people. However, be careful in situations where the dog may feel threatened.
- If your dog spends unsupervised time outside, provide an adequately fenced enclosure that is locked to prevent unauthorized access. Do not keep your dog on a chain. Do not expect your dog to distinguish between a burglar and an Avon lady. Never leave any young child unattended with your dog. Dog bite incidents occur on the property of the dog owner 70% of the time. Use a hand-held leash when in public.
- Spend time with your dog. Provide an appropriate level of exercise for the breed. However, do not play aggressive games like wrestling or tug-of-war.
Article by J.F. Treece, County of San Diego Department of Animal Services • www.sddac.com