National Dog Bite Prevention Week: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Dog Bite Prevention Week (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Dog Bite Prevention Week is observed on April 9th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Dog Bite Prevention Week, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as interesting facts you might want to know about National Dog Bite Prevention Week.

📅 What day is National Dog Bite Prevention Week 2024?

In 2024, National Dog Bite Prevention Week is on Sunday, April 9th. It is the 2nd Sunday in April; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the fun details and facts about April 9, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Dogs can be charming, caring, and calming, but it’s important to remember that they are still animals and have the potential to bite. National Dog Bite Prevention Week, held in the second week of April and backed by the American Veterinary Medical Association, aims to raise awareness about the fact that dogs, while being beloved family members that bring happiness and companionship, can also pose a biting risk. When a dog does bite, it can be both unpleasant and dangerous. In the United States alone, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, and 20% of these cases require immediate medical attention. This week, let’s spread the message that preventing life-threatening dog bites is always preferable to treating them.

📜 National Dog Bite Prevention Week History

Thousands of civilizations in ancient times were terrified by the disease known as rabies. It is caused by the bite of a rabid dog and leads to inflammation in the brain and ultimately death. The term ‘rabies’ comes from Sanskrit and Latin words that mean violence and ranting respectively. The rabies virus belongs to the Lyssavirus genus, which is derived from a Greek word meaning anger.

The earliest record of rabies causing death can be found in the Mosaic Esmuna Code of Babylon dating back to 2300 B.C. The Babylonians imposed heavy fines on those whose dogs spread rabies to others. In the first century A.D., the Roman scholar Celsus discovered that saliva from the biting animal was the means of transmitting rabies. He also suggested a bizarre treatment involving submerging patients, which unfortunately resulted in some drowning.

To promote pet safety and educate people on preventing dog bites, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) established National Dog Bite Prevention Week. This initiative is a collaboration with State Farm Insurance, the American Humane Association, the Insurance Information Institute, and Victoria Stilwell Positively.

✅ National Dog Bite Prevention Week Facts

🔖 They can see better in the dark
Dogs possess light-sensitive cells that grant them superior vision in low-light conditions compared to humans.

🔖 Dogs have unique nose print
Each dog has a unique nose print, just like how every person has distinct fingerprints.

🔖 Dogs do dream
Based on a psychology author’s perspective, dogs have dreams about various dog-related experiences.

👍 Why Is National Dog Bite Prevention Week Important

Every year, over 800,000 people in the United States require professional medical attention after being bitten by a dog for pain relief, infection treatment, plastic reconstructive surgery, and other therapies to ease the consequences.

Children aged nine and under had the greatest risk of dog bites among all dog bite victims. Those who were bitten suffered nerve injury, facial feature damage, and mental distress.

We must abandon the notion that only certain dog breeds bite or that only certain dog bites might result in serious consequences. This week, it’s critical to underline that no matter how nice a dog appears to be, it can bite when provoked.

🙂 How To Observe National Dog Bite Prevention Week

⚡ Use social media to emphasize any dog can bite

⚡ Educate your family and friends
During this week, make it a point to educate your friends, family, and neighbors about the fact that all dogs, regardless of their breed, have the potential to bite. It is essential to spread awareness that even dogs that receive proper training can bite, especially when they are interrupted while eating or resting, or if they are caught off guard, like during a postal delivery.

⚡ Be a responsible dog owner
Learn more about how to stop dog bites and use the #PreventDogBites hashtag on social media to share news, statistics, and important information.

📅 When is National Dog Bite Prevention Week?

See all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Animal and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about National Dog Bite Prevention Week. So be sure to check back soon.