Awareness and Education About Dog Bites

According to the AVMA, in the USA, each year, over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has partnered with American Humane, Positively Victoria Stilwell, and others to promote peaceful coexistence between people and their canine companions.

This relates to the honor of National Dog Bite Prevention Week (April 9 to 15).

AVMA reports that 45% of U.S. households own at least one dog, which represents ‌88 million canine companions. Still, each year, over 4.5 million people are bitten, making dog bites a serious public health risk.

In the NDBPW coalition, Victoria Stilwell, the animal behavior expert and trainer said, “The tragedy of dog bites is that most are preventable.” “The more we take the time to understand dogs’ needs and teach them the skills to cope with the challenges of living in a domestic environment, the fewer bites will occur,” she added.

There are several types by the National Dog Bite Prevention Coalition that veterinarians should share with pet owners. These include:

Not leaving children alone, even with family pets (dogs). Ensuring the health conditions of the dog and having veterinary checkups and examinations regularly.
Helping the dog to adjust to the new environment, minimizing stress, and rewarding it for good and gentle behavior.
Educating pet owners in positive training techniques and having enough interactions with their dogs. Avoid approaching the dogs without the permission of the pet owners.
Putting a leash every time around the dog’s neck while walking along.
Monitoring pet activity and behavior.

AVMA President Lori Teller, DVM, DABVP (Canine/Feline), CVJ, said, “While dog bites are a serious public health issue, the good news is that most dog bites are preventable.

By taking these steps to train and properly socialize our dogs, and educate ourselves and loved ones on dog bite prevention, we can help reduce bites and keep dogs in loving homes, where they belong.

According to the AVMA, all dogs, even well-trained and gentle ones, can bite on provoking them. Provocations might occur when unexpected strangers or delivery drivers approach the house, and the dog is eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.

In recent years, the risk of dog bites to delivery drivers has become a particular concern owing to the national rise in e-commerce sales. According to the coalition, regarding dog bite prevention, there are some other essential tips veterinarians should share with dog owners:

Dog should be secured in a separate room or fenced during delivery times. This would help prevent surprise encounters.
Keep signs showing the dog's presence in the house to warn strangers or delivery drivers.
Train your dog to follow your commands and be‌ comfortable with strangers.
Socialize your dog to help him adapt to new situations without creating any inconvenience for you.

In case of noticing any aggression signs in your dogs, consult your veterinarian immediately.