Shriners Children’s Boston Provides Safety Tips and Resources to Prevent Dog Bite Injuries

Every year, more than 2 million children in the U.S. are bitten by dogs. As warmer weather draws families outdoors, Shriners Children's Boston is urging parents to take extra precautions.

"Any dog can bite, whether it's a stray on the street or a beloved family pet, which is why supervision and prevention are essential," said Branko Bojovic, M.D., chief of plastic, laser and reconstructive surgery at Shriners Children's Boston. "Small children should never be left alone with a dog, and dogs should not be allowed close enough to lick a child's face or hands. While Shriners Children's is highly equipped to care for dog bite injuries with advanced laser treatments to help minimize scarring, our goal is to prevent these injuries altogether."

Doctors at Shriners Children's Boston treat approximately five dog bite injuries each month. Many of these injuries affect the head, neck and face, areas that are especially vulnerable due to a child's height and proximity to a dog. These types of injuries require emergency care, reconstructive surgery and sometimes hospitalization. However, Dr. Bojovic noted that the impact of a dog bite can extend well beyond the initial recovery period.

"Physical wounds can heal with time and treatment, but the emotional trauma from such an experience can last much longer," said Dr. Bojovic. "These can be complex injuries, particularly when they involve the face, often requiring years of reconstructive treatment. Many children also develop fear and anxiety that can affect how they interact with pets, other animals and even people. These are life-changing injuries that, with greater awareness and education, Shriners Children's Boston can help prevent."

According to the World Journal of Pediatric Surgery, children under the age of 10 account for the majority of pediatric dog bite cases.

Shriners Children's Dog Bite Injury Prevention Tips:

• Never leave small children alone with a dog.
• Teach children to ask permission before petting someone else's dog.
• Avoid hugging dogs or putting faces close to a dog's face.
• Do not disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping or caring for puppies.
• Encourage calm behavior around dogs and avoid sudden movements.

If your child receives a dog bite injury:

• Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage to stop any bleeding.
• Assess the wound and disinfect with clean water if possible.
• Seek medical attention for bites that:
  • Break the skin.
  • Involve the face, neck or hands.
  • Appear deep.
  • Won't stop bleeding.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you are unsure about the dog's rabies vaccination status or if your child hasn't had a tetanus vaccine in the last five years.