People who suffer from anxiety more likely to suffer dog bite

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that those who own pets are healthier than those who don’t. People with a pet have lower levels of cholesterol, blood pressure and fat.

However, people who suffer from anxiety are more likely to suffer from dog bite according to a research study from the United Kingdom. The researchers published their findings in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. They examined data from 694 people in 385 households. The data included the details of dog ownership, demographics, history of bites, personality types and overall health.

The data showed that about one-fourth of dog owners reported that they had suffered a bite at some point. About one-third of those people suffered bites that needed medical care. Those that had more than one dog were three times as likely to be bitten and males were 1.81 times more likely to suffer a bite. Researchers aren’t quite sure why men are bitten more often than women, but believe that personality could be a reason.

Most people are bitten by dogs that they haven’t had any interactions with. In 2003, a research study found that children who suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to be bitten. The authors of the study believe that someone who is anxious or nervous could have a higher risk of bites.

Many dogs will bite when they are defending their spaces or if they feel jealous. Another reason is if they are disturbed while trying to eat.

Owners of pets are responsible for the actions of their animals. Victims of dog bites have a right to seek compensation from a dog’s owner when they suffer a dog bite. This can include damages for missed work, medical expenses and pain and suffering. An experienced attorney can provide more information on a victim’s legal options.

Source: Newsweek, “People With Anxiety Are More Likely to be Bitten by Dogs,” Melissa Matthews, Feb. 03, 2018