It’s estimated that 4. 7 million people are bitten by dogs every year, yet most dog bites are entirely preventable through training, proper control of dogs, and education.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM) and the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons (ASMS) are  teaming up to raise awareness during National Dog Bite Prevention Week, May 15-21.

Children are the most common victims, followed by seniors and mail carriers. Every year, about 600,000 children require medical attention for dog bites. Children are more than three times as likely to be bitten as adults. Some of these injuries can be serious, so prevention programs are important.

“Half of all children will be bitten by a dog by the time they are high school seniors,” said Dr. John Fraser, an injury prevention specialist. “Every year, about 600,000 children require medical attention for dog bites. As a pediatrician who has treated some of these kids, I want to do everything I can to prevent these injuries.”
To avoid a dog bite:
• Pick a dog that is good match for your home. Consult your veterinarian for details.

• Socialize your pet. Gradually expose your puppy to a variety of people and other animals so it feels at ease in these situations; continue this exposure as your dog gets older.

• Train your dog. Commands can build a bond of obedience and trust between the dog and owner. Avoid aggressive games with your dog.

• Vaccinate your dog against rabies and other diseases.

• Neuter or spay your dog. These dogs are less likely to bite.

• Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.

•Teach your child to ask a dog owner for permission before petting any dog.

• Let a strange dog sniff you or your child before touching it, and pet it gently, avoiding the face and tail.

• Never bother a dog if it is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.

• Do not run past a dog.

• If a dog threatens you, remain calm. Avoid eye contact. Stand still or back away slowly until the dog leaves. If you are knocked down, curl into a ball and protect your face with your arms and fists.

If bitten, request proof of rabies vaccination from the dog owner, get the owner’s name and contact information, and contact the dog’s veterinarian to check vaccination records. Then immediately consult with your doctor.

Clean bite wounds with soap and water as soon as possible. If the victim is bleeding from a bite wound, apply pressure with a clean bandage or towel to stop the bleeding before washing, and immediately take the person to a doctor or emergency room.

As Dr. Fraser reminds parents, “With school almost over for the year, children will be spending more time in parks, at friends’ houses, and other places where they may encounter dogs, which makes this an especially important time to think about safety.”

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