Experts join forces to prevent dog bites to children
In 2022 a total of 1,700 children were admitted to hospital after being bitten by a dog.
The RSPCA, Child Accident Prevention Trust, Dogs Trust and Defra have joined forces to provide important information for parents and carers to help prevent dog bites to children. They are raising awareness of the issue during Child Safety Week which runs from 5-11 June.
The informative factsheets recommend that children are closely supervised when they are with dogs, and aim to give individuals an understanding of dog body language. The organisations say that both are crucial to be able to prevent incidents occurring.
It is also recommended that during busy times when people are distracted, such as the morning rush, that dogs and children should be kept separately.
The organisations have produced the factsheets to help prevent incidents of dog bites to children. In 2022 a total of 1,700 children were admitted to hospital after being bitten by a dog.
Dr Samantha Gaines, head of companion animals at the RSPCA, said: “Parents and guardians naturally love the idea of their child having a close bond with the family dog, and in many cases they do, but having a close bond doesn’t mean that the dog will never bite.
“1,700 children were admitted to hospital last year because of a dog biting incident - which is very worrying. But thankfully many bites are preventable and as parents and guardians, we can play an important role in protecting our children and keeping our dog happy.
“Dog body language can tell you so much about how your dog is feeling and when they want to be left alone. A small amount of research could stop countless accidents every single year.”
Tips to keep dogs and children safe and happy together are available on the Child Accident Prevention Trust’s website.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
