Benefits of a Controlled Human-Canine Interaction
Reduction in Dog Bites
The American Human Association has provided the following dog bite statistics:
Dogs who are chained are 2.8 times more likely to bite. They feel vulnerable, stressed, and protective, which can escalate into aggression. As seen with the article by Vas (2009), the dogs were tied to a tree and acted in opposition to the threatening stranger. Regarding the fact that most bites occur on a victim's property, friends and family may be inclined to immediately make contact with pets without consent of the owner. As noted by Dr. Sophia Yin, people act as if they can approach a dog whenever they want in whatever way they want. Proper education on appropriate behavior around dogs and when approaching dogs can help reduce dog bites.
- An estimated 4.7 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year
- Nearly 800,000 dog bites require medical care
- Approximately 25% of fatal dog attacks involved chained dogs
- Approximately two-thirds of bites occurred on or near the victim’s property, and most victims knew the dog
- The insurance industry pays more than $1 billion in dog-bite claims each year
- Approximately 24% of human deaths involved unrestrained dogs off of their owners’ property
- Approximately 58% of human deaths involved unrestrained dogs on their owners’ property
Dogs who are chained are 2.8 times more likely to bite. They feel vulnerable, stressed, and protective, which can escalate into aggression. As seen with the article by Vas (2009), the dogs were tied to a tree and acted in opposition to the threatening stranger. Regarding the fact that most bites occur on a victim's property, friends and family may be inclined to immediately make contact with pets without consent of the owner. As noted by Dr. Sophia Yin, people act as if they can approach a dog whenever they want in whatever way they want. Proper education on appropriate behavior around dogs and when approaching dogs can help reduce dog bites.
Reduction in Relinquishment
A reduction of dog bites will ultimately lead to a reduction of relinquished pets in shelters. The burden of facing lawsuits, insurance, and stress causes many to relinquish their dogs every year.
A More Positive Relationship Between Owner and Companion
Even experienced dog owners may not pay attention to the involuntary body language that dogs can read. Moreover, they may not fully understand dog body language (Tami, 2009). Education of how to approach dogs and dog behavior towards these approaches would create a more positive experience for the owner. The owner can avoid situations that may lead to his or her dog’s aggression or discomfort, resulting in a happier life for both.