THIS WEEK IS NATIONAL DOG BITE PREVENTION WEEK

This week is National Dog Bite Prevention Week (May 18-24). According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control CDC, Dog bites are the 11^th leading cause of nonfatal injury to children ages 1-4, the 9^th for ages 5-9 and 11^th for ages 10-14. The American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery reports that according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 26,935 reconstructive procedures were performed in 2013 to repair injuries caused by dog bites. The American Humane Association reports that 66% of bites among children occur to the head and neck.

Remember, a responsible dog owner should:

• Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog, even if it is a family pet. Children are often bitten by a dog in their own household.

• Ask permission before touching or playing with a dog.

• Remember that any dog can be dangerous and any dog can bite.

And remember, if you, a family member or friend is the victim of a dog bite-call Schauermann Thayer Jacobs Staples & Edwards PS. We deal with the financial and emotional implications of dog bite cases.