Animal bites on the rise Published July 24, 2018 By Staff Sgt. Andrea Butts 75th Medical Group Public Health Each year more than 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Of those bites, one in five require medical attention, and of more than 800,000 Americans that receive medical attention, at least half of them are children. Most animal bites affecting young children occur during everyday activities and while interacting with familiar dogs. Prevention and education are the best solutions for preventing it. Learning how to properly train and socialize with pets and teaching children how to approach animals is very important. Always be cautious around animals and treat your own pet with respect. Since children are the most common bite victims, parents and caregivers should: • Never leave a baby or small child alone with a pet • Be alert for potentially dangerous situations • Teach toddlers and children to be cautious around pets • Teach children to ask permission from the pets’ owner before touching Other helpful tips that may prevent or stop an animal attack: • Do not run past a dog. Dogs naturally love to chase and catch things. Do not give them a reason to become excited or aggressive. • Never disturb an animal that is caring for its litter, sleeping, or eating. • Never reach through or over a fence to pet an animal. Dogs can be territorial and may interpret these actions as a threat. • If a dog approaches to sniff you, stay still. In most cases, the dog will go away when it determines you are not a threat. • If you are threatened by a dog, remain calm; do not scream or yell. If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly. Avoid eye contact. Try to stay still until the dog leaves, or back away slowly until the dog is out of sight. Do not turn and run. • If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck. Protect your face. Remember that even the cuddliest, fuzziest, and sweetest pet can bite if provoked and rabies is a consideration. If you or your family member are bitten on or off base during 75th Medical Group clinic hours: • Collect information from the pet owner, to include the owners name, phone number and address to assist in determining the vaccination status of the animal. • Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water. • Report to the clinic for treatment and to file a bite report. If you or your dependent are bitten on or off base after 75th Medical Group clinic hours: • Follow first two steps above. • Go to urgent care or the emergency room for treatment. • Follow up with the clinic or your primary care provider the following day to file a bite report. For more information about animal bites and rabies, call the Hill AFB veterinarian at 801-777-2611 or Hill AFB public health at 801-586-9783.