Dog bite facts from the AVMA:

• Each year, more than 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs.

• Almost 1 in 5 people bitten by dogs require medical attention.

• Every year, more than 800,000 Americans receive medical attention for dog bites; at least half of them are children.

• Children are, by far, the most common victims of dog bites and are far more likely to be severely injured.

• Most dog bites affecting young children occur during everyday activities and while interacting with familiar dogs.

• Senior citizens are the second most common dog bite victims.

There are many things you can do to avoid dog bites, ranging from properly training and socializing your pet to educating your children on how – or if – they should approach a dog. Information and education are the best solutions for this public health crisis.

The Central California SPCA would like to take this opportunity to teach more about dog bite prevention by offering a community challenge, working together we can prevent dog bites.

     Locally 1300 dog bites were reported during the fiscal year 2010-2011

JOIN US

The CCSPCA is challenging the community to assist in educating 10,000 children about safety around dogs by using the “All Dogs Can Bite” safety program.

• GOAL: 10,000 children educated during the Challenge
• The Challenge will run throughout the summer kicking off during Dog Bite Prevention Week

SCHOOLS / CAMPS / COMMUNITY GROUPS

The All Dogs Can Bite program is a fun interactive program that teaches kids how to read dog body language and act safely around dogs. Sign up for the Challenge so that students can be a part of this life saving event. There is no charge for the presentations. Presentations do need to be scheduled in advance and can be scheduled for the next school year.

PRESENTERS

We are challenging adults to get involved by becoming a presenter.. We need presenters to get training in the All Dogs Can Bite program so that when schools return in the fall we can increase our outreach. Please volunteer and become a valued presenter.

SPONSORS

Sponsor the Education Department classes to bring more schools/groups out to the Animal Center.

Our goal is to reach more schools throughout the year. A teacher, principal, or school can schedule a field trip, school/class visit, or group presentation for any time during the year. All groups that schedule during the challenge period will be included as a part of the challenge.

• Sponsor a field trip to our Animal Center – Cost $1,000 (includes bus & handouts)
• Sponsor a field trip bus – Cost $750
• Sponsor a classroom visit – Cost $200
• Sponsor handouts to 1,000 students – $500
• Sponsor classroom teacher packet and training – $100
• Contact the Ed Dept for other ways to help

VOLUNTEERS

Become advocates for child safety by handing out information on the All Dogs Can Bite program and encouraging schools/groups to register for a class. Enlist teachers that would be willing to schedule a class at any time during the year.

VISIT US

When children come to the CCSPCA Animal Center during Dog Bite Prevention Week they will receive a “Little Bite Book” and coloring sheet with safety tips. Parents can also register for group classes or tours.

* Remember to take advantage of our FREE dog training class (link here). Properly training and socializing your pets can save lives and help prevent injuries.

ASK US / SHARE WITH US

We want to hear from the community so please call the Education Department for questions and resources regarding Dog Bite Prevention. We would also like to hear your stories about dog bites or suggest a group that might benefit from a presentation.

REFLECTION

We will share our success as we head towards our goal of reaching 10,000 children. Please share your group stories about learning Dog Bite Safety.