Steps Dog Owners Can Take to Prevent Dog Bites

New York residents may be interested in knowing that the second week of April is recognized as Dog Bite Prevention Week every year. Every year, around 4.5 million dog bites are reported. Around 20 percent of these dog bite cases require emergency room treatment.

Every year, thousands of children are victims of dog bites. However, the most affected are postal workers, with more than 6,200 incidents reported in 2017. One-third of homeowner liability insurance claims are connected to dog bites. The average payout is $37,000.

There are some things that people can do to minimize the chances of getting bit by a dog. For example, dog owners should use positive reinforcement and rewards when training. This is better than hitting the dog or using forms of punishment.

Since a number of dog bites involve children, owners should actively supervise their dogs when kids are around. It could be dangerous to assume that just because a dog is well behaved around adults they are going to be the same way with children. Kids move differently than adults and may not take the same care when interacting with dogs. This could make a dog nervous.

Dog owners will want to socialize with their pets. This means getting their pet acquainted with people outside of the family. It is up to the owner to understand their dog’s body language. If a dog has a history of aggression, it may be good to put the dog in a secluded place when deliveries are being made.

Getting bit by a dog can be a traumatic experience. Bites often result in lacerations, broken bones, punctures and other injuries that may require stitches or even cosmetic surgery. A personal injury lawyer could help a client who is the victim of a dog bite. Legal counsel may help their client understand the laws pertaining to dog bites and premises liability.

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