Canine canines the focus of Dog Bite Prevention Week

National Dog Bite Prevention Week will be observed May 21-27. Sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States, the program is aimed at reducing the number of dog bite injuries through public education and the promotion of responsible dog ownership.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly two percent of the US population is bitten by a dog each year. This represents more than 4.7 million people per year, most of whom are children. Ten to 20 people die every year as a result of dog bites in the United States. By far, most of the victims are children.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week is co-sponsored by the AVMA, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, American Medical Association, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Independent Insurance Agents of America, National Animal Control Association, and the US Postal Service.