National Dog Bite Prevention Week

The National Dog Bite Prevention Week® is an annual awareness effort put on by The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). It is traditionally held during the 3rd full week of May. That makes it May 15 through the 21st this year (2016). The purpose is the teach people about Dog Bites, their statistics and most importantly, how to prevent them.

Did you know that there are about 70 million dogs in the United States? Millions of dog bites occur each year, and most of them are to kids. Nearly ALL of them can be prevented.

More facts and reports:

According to the AVMA,

• Dog Bites are #11 among the leading cause of non-fatal injury to kids 4 and younger. #9 for kids between 5-9 and #10 for children from ages 10-14.
• In 2013, nearly $500 million have been paid out due to claims related to dog bites. Yikes!
• In 2013, nearly 27,000 procedures were done in reconstructive surgery, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, due to dog bites.
• Over 5 thousand Postal employees have been attacked in 2013 by dogs. It’s no wonder they carry their pepper spray with them every day.
• It’s been reported that 66% of dog bites to kids are at the head and neck areas.

So, this is nothing to ignore. Please help us to spread the word.

Below is a video you can show your children as one tip.

Source: https://www.avma.org/public/Pages/Dog-Bite-Prevention.aspx