Key Takeaways:
– The number of dog-walking-related injuries has surged over the past two decades, with fractures, sprains, and head trauma being the most prevalent.
– Adults, particularly women, are the most affected demographic, accounting for 75% of all incidents.
– Measures like maintaining balance, focusing attention, and taking extra precautions during adverse weather conditions are requisite for safe dog walking.
– Experts recommend using non-retractable leashes and wearing appropriate footwear with proper grip to prevent falls.
Despite their unquestionable loyalty and delightful companionship, dogs could potentially pose dangers to their owners. In the past 20 years, researchers from Johns Hopkins University have noted an unexpected uptick in injuries related to dog walking among adults and children in the United States.
The Sharp Surge in Dog Walking Injuries
As reported by lead researcher Ridge Maxson, the figure of adults reporting at emergency departments due to dog-walking injuries ballooned from 7,300 in 2001 to a staggering 32,300 per year in 2020. Notably, women represented a significant proportion of these patients, accounting for 75% of them. Concurrently, adults aged between 40 and 64 comprised 47% of these incidents.
Maxson further highlighted that these statistics only account for emergency room visits. He said, “We know that a significant number of people might seek treatment at primary care, specialty or urgent care clinics for their injuries.” This implies that the actual number of dog-walking-related injuries could be substantially higher.
A combination of increased dog ownership – around half of U.S. households have at least one dog – and the augmented instance of dog walking during the pandemic are likely contributing factors to this surge.
Protective Measures and Precautions
Maintaining safety when walking a leashed dog mandates diligence and attention, particularly in poor weather conditions. Dog owners are advised to refrain from multitasking and to stow away their phones when walking their dogs.
Highly dramatic instances of dog walking injuries further underscore the importance of these precautions. From fractured bones due to sudden dog movements, to severe injuries brought on by the forceful pull of a lunging pet, a variety of accidents can occur during seemingly innocuous dog walks.
Shoshi Parks, a dog trainer based in San Francisco, has some practical tips for dog walkers. These include using a no-pull harness with the leash clipped to a dog’s chest rather than their back, which would allow for better control and less strain on the dog.
Potential Road Dangers and Solutions
In addition to dog-related incidents, outdoor hazards such as vehicular accidents pose a significant risk to dog walkers, especially in areas with minimal pedestrian infrastructure. To combat this issue, it’s vital for dog owners walking at night to wear reflective clothing and ensure that their pets also have visible reflectors or lights.
Even with these precautions, individuals with mobility or balance issues are encouraged to enlist the help of a neighbor, an older child, or a professional dog walker for their dog’s outings, particularly during adverse weather.
Overall, staying safe while dog walking boils down to diligence, appropriate equipment, and an understanding of how to manage the dog properly. Practicing balance and strength-training exercises can help improve stability and decrease the risk of falls and fractures. Furthermore, engaging with a dog trainer can undeniably reduce the risk of unforeseen incidents by enhancing the owner’s capacity to read their pet’s body language better.
In conclusion, though the joy of owning a dog is unparalleled, the potential risks associated with dog walking cannot be overlooked. By implementing careful practices and appropriate precautions, dog owners can ensure enjoyable and safe walks with their furry friends.