This week marks National Dog Bite Prevention Week. This is a campaign started by the United States Postal Service, to call attention to the dangers of dog bites and to offer tips on how each and every individual can prevent such incidents from occurring.
Dog owners in Florida should pay special attention to the disturbing statistics regarding dog bites in Florida, and in Miami. Florida has a low tolerance for dog bite incidents. In fact, Florida statutes impose strict liability upon dog owners for a dog bite that causes injury to a human being. Florida law provides that the owner of any dog that bites any person while such person is on or in a public place, or lawfully on or in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, is liable for damages suffered by persons bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner's knowledge of such viciousness.
That is the case because the facts are troublesome, and as follows:
• Nearly 4.5 billion dog million Americans are bitten by dogs each year.
• One in five bites require medical attention
• More than 31,100 people underwent reconstructive surgery due to dog bites
• Severe injuries from dog bites are highest for children ages 5 to 9 years of age.
• Three-quarters of dogs involved in bite incidents belong to the victim's family or friend. • Sixty-one percent of dog bites occur at home or in a familiar place.
• Small children, the elderly, and Postal Service carriers -- in that order -- are the most frequent victims of dog bites.
• It is also stated that the number of dog bites exceeds the reported instances of measles, whooping cough and mumps, combined.
• Dog bite victims account for up to five percent of emergency room visits.
Despite these troubling statistics, dog bites are easily preventable. It is important that all adults and children practice these simple tips:
• Never tease, pull the tail or ears, poke the eyes, throw things at, try to ride, climb over or step on a dog.
• Never touch or play with a dog while he is eating or sleeping.
• Never take a dog's toy or bone away when he is playing with it.
• Never approach a strange or stray dog -- EVER.
• Never stare directly into a dog's eyes.
• Always ask the owner first before petting a dog.
• Always let a dog sniff your hand first, then pet him under his chin or on his chest rather than on top of his head
• Always go tell an adult if you see a stray dog walking on the street.
Always treat a dog and all animals the way you'd want to be treated.
If you or a loved one have been attacked by a dog, or other animal, please contact our office today.
