Pit bulls are at the center of a new series of studies on dog bites. The controversial breed has made headlines and garnered passionate allies and ardent opponents through the years, but the science behind pit bull attacks has been light – until now.
Published earlier this summer, a study out of a Pediatric Trauma Center in Atlanta found that one hospital saw 25 percent of child injuries caused by pit bulls. More specifically, pit bull bites accounted for more than half of all required surgeries. The study’s main takeaway? Though pit bulls might not bite any more frequently than other breeds of dogs, when they did attack, they did more damage than the average dog bite.
The study also emphasized the connection between family dogs and attacks on infants. Infants are the group most likely to be injured by dog bites – four times more likely than any other age group. They are also six times more likely to be bitten on the neck or head.
The pit bull debate will continue to wage on regardless of these findings. But the most important thing to remember is that all animals can misbehave, lash out and hurt those around them. Good pet ownership means training your dog as well as keeping it on a leash or secured at home. Many serious, fatal dog attacks can be traced back to their owner’s negligence. When children are near dogs of any breed, attacks can happen. Supervision, along with proper education about pet behavior with kids, can save lives.
Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Dog Bite?
GET HELP NOW. Free Consultations 877-544-5323
If you’ve been attacked by someone else’s dog, it is important that you collect as much evidence as possible. The Virginia dog bite lawyers at the Law Offices of Richard J. Serpe, PC understand the need for an immediate investigation because proof is essential in obtaining the highest possible settlement or verdict for your case. If you’d like to speak with our Virginia dog bite lawyers, contact us for a free consultation 877-544-5323.
