Something To Chew On

Dog Bites Continue to be Public Health Problem

WESTERN NY — Who would have guessed that the number of dog bites out number the reported instances of measles, whooping cough and mumps combined? Or that dog bites account for approximately 5% of all emergency room visits? And of the 4.7 million dog bite victims annually, the majority of those attacked are children.

Postal employees are especially sensitive to dog bites prevention; over 3000 were victimized by dogs in 2007. In Western New York, the 28 carriers bitten by dogs last year, along with the countless others almost bitten, can tell stories of the trauma and stress associated with a dog attack.

So as the flowers, children and dogs come out with the warm weather, the Postal Service wants to once again remind pet owners to properly socialize and then restrain their dogs when visitors come to their home. And parents should talk to children about what to do when approached or approaching a dog.

Please help the Postal Service promote National Dog Bite Prevention Week, May 18 – 24. Take care of your dog and encourage old and young alike to use good safety habits around pets. For more information about dog bite prevention, go to www.nodogbites.org.