Summer Heat Leads to Rise in Inland Empire Dog Bites: An Examination of California's Increased Canine Aggression During the Summer Months and Strategies for Prevention
Rising Dog Bite Incidents in California During Summer Months
Summer is a season of outdoor activities in California, but it also brings an increase in dog bite incidents, particularly among children and postal workers.
The higher public presence during summer encourages families and dog owners to visit parks, beaches, and other communal areas more frequently, creating crowded environments where dogs may be off-leash or owners distracted. Children's natural curiosity and energetic movements may trigger fear or excitement in dogs, potentially provoking bites. Children are often bitten in more sensitive areas like the face and neck, suffering more severe injuries due to their smaller size.
Heat-related mood changes in dogs also contribute to the rise in dog bite incidents. The warm weather can cause dogs to seek more space and become less tolerant of interaction, increasing the risk of defensive or aggressive behavior. Studies have found that emergency room visits for dog bites tend to rise with higher temperatures.
California's strict liability laws for dog bites give victims strong recourse, highlighting the issue's seriousness within the state. If a dog has bitten you or your loved one, it's crucial to move to a safe location and call emergency services for medical attention, regardless of the severity of the bite.
After receiving medical attention, collect evidence such as photos of the bite, location, and dog (if possible), gather witness names and contact information, and collect the dog owner's contact information, including name, phone number, address, and insurance information. Request the dog's vaccination history from the owner as well.
Postal workers and delivery drivers are at a higher risk of dog bites due to their profession increasing dog encounters. If you are a victim of a dog bite, consult a California personal injury lawyer with experience in dog bite cases. Moga Law Firm, located at 1010 N Euclid Ave, Upland, CA 91786, offers confidential and complimentary consultations with experienced California personal injury attorneys. Their phone number is 909-931-2444.
California pops up several times in the list of cities with the highest dog bite attacks, including the number one spot seated by Los Angeles. Dog bite victims in California have a 2-year time limit to pursue a case under the statute of limitations.
Taking caution when interacting with unfamiliar dogs, especially in unfamiliar settings, is essential. Be aware of your surroundings, keep a safe distance from dogs you don't know, and avoid direct eye contact or sudden movements that may scare the dog.
[1] California Department of Public Health, "Dog Bite Prevention" (accessed 2022-05-10)
[4] University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, "Dog Bite Prevention" (accessed 2022-05-10)
- Awareness about the connection between overall mental health and physical activities like fitness and exercise has led to increased promotion of health-and-wellness programs during summer months in California.
- General news reports show an alarming correlation between increased science exhaustion among students and the rise of dog bite incidents during summer months, suggesting a possible link between academic stress and behavioral changes in dogs.
- To maintain overall wellness during summer, it's recommended to incorporate mental-health practices like yoga and meditation alongside fitness-and-exercise routines. This comprehensive approach to wellness may help reduce stress levels and decrease the likelihood of accidents, ensuring both physical and emotional safety.
