(Photo credit: Jackie/Flickr)
Dogs can be great companions for families and people of all ages, but canines can also be harmful and dangerous.
In Canada, one to two human deaths a year are related to dog attacks, according to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. Between 1964 to 2010, there were 47 documented fatalities from dog bites, according to the National Canine Research Council. Along with that, there were 13,000 emergency room visits in Ontario between 2011 to 2012 due to a canine attack, according to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI).
Children have the highest risk of being attacked with children younger than 12 accounting for 85.7 per cent of 28 attacks. Also, attacks were more likely to happen when a child was left alone with a dog with this being the case in 22 incidents.
A dog bite’s severity ranges based on the animal’s size, but it can cause damage to a person’s bones, muscles and nerves. Dog owners are responsible if their pet attacks another person or another dog.
But there are ways parents can prevent their children from becoming a victim.
If you’re looking to become a dog owner, research dog breeds to ensure they’re family-friendly. The National Companion Animal Coalition provides a checklist to help future dog owners be aware about what they should consider when picking a family friend. A parent should always be in close supervision when children are playing with dogs. Also, dogs should be trained to prevent potential issues. Also, spaying or neutering your canine will decrease their aggressive behaviour, according to the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies.
Also, you’ll likely see dog walkers around your neighbourhood and here are some rules you can teach your children on how to approach these pets.
- If you see a dog, always ask the owner for permission to pet them. Don’t assume the dog will be friendly and it may bite you as a reaction to being scared.
- Do not pull on a dog’s ears or tail. This could agitate them and they could react by biting you.
- Treat dogs kindly and do not start a fight. Think about how you want to be treated and chances are if you’re stealing a dog’s food or toys, they won’t react well to you.
- Do not approach a stray dog. There’s always a risk the dog could have rabies and you’re better off being safe rather than sorry. If a stray dog approaches you, your first instinct might be to move, but it’s not the reaction since the dog may chase you. Stand still, don’t make any noise and let the dog sniff you.
Sometimes accidents happen and Neinstein Personal Injury Lawyers are here for you if they do. The personal injury and accident lawyers have been handling all types of injuries for over 45 years including injuries caused by dog attacks. We understand the impacts injuries can have on you and we can help fight your case. Call us at 416-920-4242. Set up a free consultation and come chat with us.