We love our dogs and our pets are an important part of our family. Dogs can be tremendous companions for children as many of us have wonderful memories of a beloved dog that kept us company during childhood. However, dogs can bite when threatened, injured or when protecting their territory or their family. To remind us of this, May 17th-23rd has been declared National Dog Bite Prevention Week. Research shows that children are the most common victims of dog bites with dog bites ranking #11 among the most common nonfatal injury among children up to age four. Here are some tips for preventing dog bites:

1. Make sure that you socialize your new puppy with other dogs and humans.
2. Train your dog and seek outside assistance if you need help. Call Utah Redwood Veterinary at 801-966-3974 or email us at Pets@UtahRedwoodVet.com if you need one of veterinarians to give you a referral to Salt Lake City dog trainers to help with a new pet or an overly aggressive dog.
3. Always use a leash when you take your dog out into public.
4. Spay or neuter your pet.

Facts about Dog Bites

• According to the Center for Disease Control, dog bites rank in #11 among the most common nonfatal injury among children up to age four.
• Insurers across the US pay approximately $500 million in dog bites claims according to the Insurance Information Institute.
• Close to 6,000 U.S. Postal Service employees are attacked by dogs each year.

More Information

For more information about National Dog Bite Prevention Week visit the AVMA's web site Dog Bite Prevention Week.