Dog bites on the rise in summer months

Dog bite incidents often rise in the summer months and sadly, children are the most at risk. Although the reason as to why dog bites peak during this time is uncertain, we can assume it is simply the warmer weather allowing children and dogs to be outside more often. Whatever the reason may be, it is important to make sure your child is safe around dogs this summer.

When a dog bite occurs, usually the animal is known to the family or individual who sustained the bite. Dog bite injuries often happen as a result of children disturbing dogs while they are sleeping, eating or in general do not wish to be bothered. Teach your children to be gentle and cautious with dogs and avoid bothering them when they seem occupied. In a previous blog post, we discussed how to keep children safe around dogs. For more information on how to teach your children to behave around dogs, see our previous blog post.

Hot weather can cause dogs to be irritable and behave irrationally. As a dog owner, make sure your dog has plenty of water. Also, keep track of how long you keep your dog outside for. High temperatures can not only affect your dog’s behavior but also their health.

The most common injuries a child faces when bit by a dog are bites and scratches to their hands, arms, face and neck. However, dog bites can cause other serious injuries that can debilitate a child’s life. Dog bites can inflict rabies, bacterial infections, tetanus (“lockjaw”) or a viral infection such as herpes simplex virus. It is important to seek necessary medical treatment immediately if your child suffered a severe dog bite.

The most common injuries a child faces when bit by a dog are bites and scratches to their hands, arms, face and neck. However, dog bites can cause other serious injuries that can debilitate a child’s life. Dog bites can inflict rabies, bacterial infections, tetanus (“lockjaw”) or a viral infection such as herpes simplex virus. It is important to seek necessary medical treatment immediately if your child suffered a severe dog bite.

If your child has sustained injuries due to a dog bite, you may have a personal injury claim. It is a homeowner’s responsibility to make sure their dog does not cause harm or injury to others. Contact a personal injury attorney to see what your rights are and if you have a claim to recover damages for your injury.

Source:

eMedicine Health, “Animal and Human Bites.”