Hospitalizations for dog bites increased by 86% over 16 years in the United States. In 1993, 5,100 people were hospitalization after suffering a dog bite-related injury compared to 9,500 people in 2008.
The report from the Department of Health and Human Services' Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality estimated that 316,000 emergency department visits in 2008 were a result of a dog bite. That translates to 866 emergency visits and 26 hospitalizations a day!
Data shows that annually 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs, according to the AVMA and the CDC. Of those, only approximately 17% receive medical attention. The main reason for medical attention is infection resulting from the bite. The second most common reason are open wounds on the extremities and wounds on the head and neck. Other, less common injuries from dog bites include fractures and blood poisoning.
Seniors and young children are most likely to be hospitalized for a dog bite. Children under 10 years of age have the highest rate of hospitalization. Males received medication attention at a higher rate than females.
The report did not offer any suggestions as to why there has been an increase in hospitalizations for dog bites. It may be due people being more eager to seek medical attention, an increase in the number of people owning dogs, or other factors. Regardless of the reasons, please always be responsible with your dogs. Keep them on a leash or in supervised situations. If your dog has aggressive tendencies, please be smart about where you take them.
