JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

Did you know that in 2006, more than 31,000 people underwent reconstructive surgery because a dog bit them? In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dogs bite about 4.5 million people every single year.

These statistics are scary, but there are ways to reduce your risk of being a victim of a dog attack in Philadelphia. The University of Pennsylvania’s Center for the Interaction of Animals in Society reports that certain breeds of dogs that are more dangerous than others. It’s impossible to completely avoid the risk of dog attacks, but being aware of breeds more likely to bite will help you steer clear of potentially bad situations. The University did not look at mixed breeds, so if you encounter a dog that seems to be mixed with the dangerous breeds, you should still be careful. The most dangerous breeds identified by the study are:

• Pit Bull
• Dalmatian
• Rottweiler
• German Shepherd
• Old English Sheepdog
• Chihuahua
• Miniature Pinscher
• Bull Mastiff
• Llasa Apso
• Jack Russell Terrier
• Dachshund
• Papillon
• Giant Schnauzer
• Akita
• Chow Chow

The researchers based their list on owner aggression, stranger aggression, aggression toward other dogs, and rivalry with other dogs. They also reminded the public of the fact that every dog has its own personality, so while it’s important to be cautious, don’t assume every dog is inherently dangerous. A dog’s temperament can also be largely based on whether or not it has been abused or taught to be vicious by its owner.

If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog in Philadelphia, contact Mednick, Mezyk and Kredo at 215-545-1870 or 215-545-1870 for a free consultation.