2 Children Injured in Dog Attack
The family dog is not always man’s best friend. Sometimes dogs attack children and other household members. These attacks can result in serious injuries.
Two children from Lauderhill were hospitalized after they were bitten by the family dog on the morning of April 1. Police received a call and arrived at the home, located in the 2200 block of NW 59 Avenue.
Police officers found a 12-year-old and a 9-year-old inside the home. Both had been bitten by their dog. They were taken to a local hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.
Animal Control was called out to the scene. They went to the residence, but no adults were home. Since the dogs belong to the family, Animal Control had to go to the hospital to get the full story.
Neighbors know the dogs well and claim they are aggressive. The two dogs, a chihuahua and a pit bull, often escape from the home. When the chihuahua comes at a person, the pit bull follows. So it all depends on what the chihuahua does.
One neighbor has spoken to the children’s mother about the dogs. He told her that she needs to lock up the dogs, as he has two young kids and he’s scared of what the dogs may do to them when they go outside to play.
Neighbors are sad to hear that the two children are in the hospital from serious dog bite injuries. One person was devastated to hear the news.
Children and Dog Attacks
Dog attacks involving children are a significant concern, with children under 12 accounting for nearly half of all dog bite victims in the United States.
Approximately 4.5 million Americans suffer dog bites each year, with over 2 million of these victims being children. The majority of pediatric dog bites (more than 60%) occur on the head and neck, followed by the hands or arms (20%), and feet or legs (13%).
Several factors contribute to the increased risk of dog attacks among children:
- Size and behavior. Children’s smaller stature and unpredictable movements can be perceived as threatening by dogs.
- Lack of understanding. Children often misinterpret a dog’s body language and may not recognize warning signs of aggression.
- Resource guarding: Dogs may become aggressive when protecting food, toys, or resting areas, especially if they feel threatened by a child’s actions.
To reduce the risk of dog attacks on children:
- Supervise them. Never leave young children alone with a dog, regardless of the dog’s history or temperament.
- Educate them. Teach children to avoid disturbing dogs that are eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies, and to ask permission before approaching unfamiliar dogs.
- Recognize the signs of aggression. Learn to identify signs of aggression in dogs, such as growling, stiff posture, or avoidance behaviors.
- Train and socialize the dog. Ensure your dog is well-trained and properly socialized to interact safely with children.
Contact Us Today
Dogs can suddenly become aggressive, causing serious harm to even household members.
If you have been injured by a dog attack, a Bradenton dog bite lawyer from Cahall Law Firm can help you get compensation. To schedule a consultation, call (941) 281-2019 or fill out the online form.
Source:
cbsnews.com/miami/news/2-lauderhill-children-bitten-by-family-dog-taken-to-the-hospital/
