Dogs remain one of America’s most popular pets, with nearly half of households in the U.S. including a canine companion, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. However, this source also reports that dog bites remain a significant danger for both children and adults, with some attacks serious enough to send individuals to a hospital.
While people of almost any age may suffer injuries from a dog attack, they tend to vary when compared to the ages of the victims, and understanding the reasons behind the differences may help those who live with or near dogs prevent physical and emotional trauma when these animals decide to bite.
Dog bites in adults
Both men and women experience dog bites almost equally, with men suffering bites slightly more often. When compared with younger victims, adults obtained bites mostly in the upper extremities, head and neck. This is likely due to attacks by large-breed dogs that can jump up and bite or knock their victims to the ground in an attack.
Dog bites in children
Dogs of any size can cause serious injuries to babies and children because they are often closer to the ground or sitting in a stroller when attacks occur. Dog bites occur more often in the summer, especially with children, as they may encounter dogs while at a park or in other outdoor locations. Younger victims typically suffer bites in the head and neck area, which can make the injuries more severe, particularly in babies. Generally, children under the age of 10 require a hospital visit after a dog bite due to where the trauma occurs.
Most dog bites occur in the pet’s owner’s home. Those who own dogs may want to make visitors aware of their presence on the property to lower the risk of injury.
