State Farm names Top 10 states for dog bite claims

I just going to hit the nuts and bolts of this article I read in DVM Magazine about dog bites.  I want to throw my 2 cents worth in first.  I do feel that there are good and bad dogs, but I often find they are strongly influenced by good and bad dog owners.  In my experience its usually the humans fault they get bite, most dogs warn people several times before they bite (I have had an occasional dog that gives no warning, but its very rare).  It is just that most people don't understand those warnings.  I think everyone can be a good dog owner, they just need some guidance from their veterinarian and a recommended dog trainer.  Dog training classes are more about 'people' training than they are dog training. 

-State Farm paid more than $109 Million as a result of 3,800 dog bite claims filed in 2011.

-Insurers across the country paid nearly $479 million in total dog bite claims in 2011.

-Almost 5 million people are bitten or attacked each year.  Children and senior are the most frequent victims, with children accounting for half of those victims.

-Children between the ages of 5 to 9 are the most often bitten, and usually by a dog in their own household

-State Farm reports that a dog's tendency to bite depends on several factors, hereditary, training, socialization, and the victims behavior.  There are aggressive and non-aggressive dogs within every breed.

-Your veterinarian can help you choose a dog that is a good match for your family.

-'When Pet Meets Baby', a free down loadable book from the American Humane Association that helps with introducing your pet to the new baby.  When Pet Meets Baby

-Safety Tips:
  1.  Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog
  2.  Always be on the lookout for unleashed animals and potentially dangerous situations
  3.  Educate all children, including toddlers, to be calm and careful around all pets.
  4.  Tell children they should never approach strange dogs.
  5.  Make sure children ask an owner's permission before petting any dog.

Top 10 States for Dog Bite Claims:

More information:
State Farm Learning Center:  www.statefarm.com/dogbites
American Humane Association:  www.americanhumane.org