Dog bites a weekly occurrence in Yuma

A recent study by Quote Wizard found that when it comes to dog bite settlements, Arizona ranks in the top five in the country.

Last year, settlements totaled over 17 million dollars.

But, every dog bite doesn’t result in a lawsuit because if they did, there would be hundreds of lawsuits in Yuma every year.

According to Animal Control, reports of dog bites are actually very common in Yuma, r eceiving two to three reports of someone being bitten by a dog every week.

In most cases, a dog owner is trying to protect their pet from a stray dog, getting mauled in the process.

Children are also vulnerable to dog attacks, especially when out playing or riding a bike.

Which is why there are dos and don’ts when dealing with man’s best friend.

Animal Control Supervisor, Sgt. John ” Big Dog ” Allen, said there are more don’ts than dos.

1. Ask people before you pet their animals because you don’t have any idea of the character of that particular animal.

2. Don’t stare an animal in the eyes because they see that as aggression.

3. Don’t run from a dog because they’re faster than you are.

4. If you’re approached by a dog, standstill. Become like a tree. Turn sideways and stay still. Hopefully, the dog will get disinterested and go away.

Sgt. Allen has seen severe bite wounds in his days but regularly, most victims suffer minor puncture wounds.

Animal Control said anytime someone is bitten by an animal, no matter how small it may be, they should always report the incident to Animal Control.