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Dog Bite attacks on the increase

The number of people hospitalised after being bitten by dogs is on the increase. A total of 466 people across Greater Manchester sustained injuries that required treatment at hospital after a dog attack.


United Kingdom – WEBWIRE –

In 2013, there was a 6% increase in the total admissions to hospitals across England due to dog bites, compared to the previous year.

The number of people hospitalised after being bitten by dogs is on the increase. In Salford alone, over 60 people were admitted to hospital after being bitten by a dog in 2013. A total of 466 people across Greater Manchester sustained injuries that required treatment at hospital after a dog attack.
 
In 2013, there was a 6% increase in the total admissions to hospitals across England due to dog bites, compared to the previous year. Children under 9 are most likely to be injured by a dog. A spokesperson from the RSPCA has said that children need to be better educated on how to interact safely with dogs, and adults need to know how to control their dogs to prevent accidents happening.
 
There are several ways you can help protect yourself whilst around dogs: 

  • Look out for signs that the dog is becoming agitated – if it moves away from the interaction, turns its head away or keeps licking itself or the person it can be signs the dog is not happy and to move away from it for a while.
  • Growling, showing its teeth and the whites of its eyes show that the dog is preparing to attack – do not look the dog directly in the eyes. Refrain from running away, try to stay calm and face the dog.
  • If the dog attacks try to grab an object to put between yourself and the dog - If it manages to bite you, try not to pull away as this can cause more damage.


 
The law around dog attacks and keeping your dog under control has recently been changed so that it includes attacks that take place in owner’s homes. It is now against the law for your dog to be dangerously out of control anywhere. This includes in a public place such as a park, a private area such as a friend’s or neighbour’s house and also in its owners home. It is classed as being dangerously out of control if it causes injury to someone or makes someone believe they are under threat of being attacked. The sentences for owners who allow their dog to become out of control have also been lengthened.
 
Animal welfare minister Lord de Mauley commented on the change in legislation saying, “Irresponsible dog owners will not only face longer prison sentences, but will also be liable for prosecution regardless of where an attack takes place, even in their homes. This will give better protection to those who provide vital services to the community – postal workers, nurses, utility workers – as well as people visiting family and friends”.
 
Sadly, as these figures show, dog attacks are all too common. The damage they can do can have devastating consequences on not only the victim’s life, but also their family and friends lives. Injuries can range from small bites, to life threatening and sometimes fatal injuries.
 
If you, or a loved one, have been attacked by a dog you may be able to claim compensation. No matter where the attack took place, you could be successful in claiming for personal injury. Freeclaim Solicitors are specialist personal injury lawyers. They have dealt with hundreds of animal attack claims, and could help you.
 
To find out more visit their website http://www.freeclaim.co.uk, or call their helpline 24 hours a day on 0800 612 7340.

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Dog Attacks


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