There are many examples in the media today of dogs attacks, from the dogs simply nipping at someone to catastrophic injuries caused by them. Many people don’t think about the costs that can come from a horrific dog attack and just what kind of damage they can really do.
In 2011 alone, a survey showed that insurance companies paid nearly $479 million in claims. It is one contributing factor for the costs is the rising cost of health-care. The majority of dog attacks occur on the face , making necessary and a plastic surgeon in order to repair the victim’s injuries. Nearly 31,000 people had reconstruction surgery due to being bitten by a dog in 2006.
Certain breeds of dog that are popular amongst the general public are responsible for most attacks. A study published in the Annals of Surgery in the spring of 2011 said that “attacks by pit bulls are associated with higher morbidity rates, higher hospital charges, and a higher risk of death than are dog attacks by other breeds of dogs.”
While most dogs as domesticated animals are great companions and friendly, be leery of another's dog which you do not know. Always ask permission to pet another's dog, and if with your child, stay close and vigilant. Children are bitten more often. Why? Namely because of their height. Looking a dog in the eyes can represent a "challenge", and children are just about the right eye height.
Be careful, but also be educated. Dogs are fun loving animals. They can also be our greatest companions. But just like with anything else, always stay alert and aware of what you are doing and how it could possibly aggravate the animal in anyway.
