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Pongrácz P, Dobos P. Behavioural differences and similarities between dog breeds: proposing an ecologically valid approach for canine behavioural research. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024. [PMID: 39101379 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
The behaviour of dogs holds great relevance for not only scientists from fundamental and applied research areas, but also due to the widespread roles of dogs in our societies as companions and working animals; their behaviour is also an important factor in animal and human welfare. A large proportion of dogs currently under human supervision belong to one of roughly 400 recognised breeds. Dog breeds can be characterised by distinctive, predictable and reproducible features, including some of their behavioural traits. To the scientist, the comparative analysis of the behaviour of dog breeds provides an opportunity for investigating an array of intriguing phenomena within an easily accessible model organism created from natural and human-driven evolutionary processes. There are many ways to design and conduct breed-related behavioural investigations, but such endeavours should always be based around biologically relevant research questions and lead to ecologically valid conclusions. In this review, we surveyed recent research efforts that included dog behaviour-related comparisons and applied a critical evaluation according to their methods of breed choice and the subsequent research design. Our aim was to assess whether these two fundamentally important components of experimental design provide a solid basis to reach valid conclusions. Based on 97 publications that fulfilled our selection criteria, we identified three primary methods used by researchers to select breeds for their investigations: (i) convenience sampling; (ii) hypothesis-driven, ancestry-based sampling; and (iii) hypothesis-driven, functional sampling. By using the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) evaluation system, we highlight each of these techniques' merits and shortcomings. We identify when particular methods may be inherently unable to produce biologically meaningful results due to a mismatch between breed choice and the initial research goals. We hope that our evaluation will help researchers adopt best practices in experimental design regarding future dog breed comparisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Péter Pongrácz
- Department of Ethology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Pázmány Péter sétány 1/c, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Petra Dobos
- Department of Ethology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Pázmány Péter sétány 1/c, Budapest, Hungary
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2
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Guvenc-Bayram G, Semen Z, Polat-Dincer PF, Sertkaya ZT, Ustundag Y, Ates C, Aktas B, Yalcin M. The Relation between Plasma Nesfatin-1 Levels and Aggressive Behavior in Pit Bull Dogs. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:632. [PMID: 38396600 PMCID: PMC10886264 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Aggression is a prevalent and concerning behavioral issue in dogs. Pit Bull dogs, known for their high levels of aggression, are recognized as a focus of concern in society. In our study, we aimed to investigate the behavioral characteristics of Pit Bull dogs and explore the potential roles of peptides involved in the neurobiology of aggression. Initially, female, and male dogs underwent aggression tests, and their aggression levels were categorized. Plasma nesfatin-1, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine levels were quantified using ELISA, with blood samples collected after a 24 h fasting period and 2 h post-refeeding. Our findings indicate that aggression in Pit Bull dogs correlates with decreased plasma nesfatin-1, serotonin, and oxytocin levels, while dopamine levels increase. The study's findings indicate that fasted dogs exhibited lower plasma levels of nesfatin-1, serotonin, and dopamine, while plasma oxytocin levels were higher. Furthermore, while the research findings do not suggest a significant relationship between the severity of aggression and the gender of the dog, male Pit Bull breeds appear to have higher plasma nesfatin-1 and serotonin levels compared to their female counterparts. The study's findings demonstrate that nesfatin-1, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine play pivotal roles in Pit Bull dogs' aggression, indicating potential interactions among these neuropeptides at the central nervous system level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gokcen Guvenc-Bayram
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35890, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Semen
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35890, Turkey;
| | - Pelin Fatos Polat-Dincer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35890, Turkey;
| | - Zeynep Tugce Sertkaya
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Medipol University, Ankara 06050, Turkey;
| | - Yasemin Ustundag
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35890, Turkey;
| | - Can Ates
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Aksaray University, Aksaray 68100, Turkey;
| | - Bugra Aktas
- Manisa Metropolitan Municipality Temporary Animal Shelter, Manisa 45125, Turkey;
| | - Murat Yalcin
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa 16059, Turkey;
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3
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Caddiell RMP, White P, Lascelles BDX, Royal K, Ange-van Heugten K, Gruen ME. Veterinary education and experience shape beliefs about dog breeds. Part 2: Trust. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13847. [PMID: 37620438 PMCID: PMC10449930 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40464-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dog breed stereotypes are frequently used to inform people's expectations about canine behavior, despite evidence that breed is largely uninformative in predicting individual dog behavior. Further, these beliefs differ among populations. However, it remains unknown how ratings of warmth toward a breed are associated with ratings of other social behavioral domains, and whether differences exist between populations with varying experience with dogs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate ratings of trust and warmth among survey respondents including veterinary students, veterinary faculty and staff, undergraduates in animal-health related majors and members of the general public. Using an online survey, respondents rated their likelihood to trust a dog in varying scenarios for 10 different dog breeds. Additionally, respondents used a feelings thermometer to rate how warm or cool they felt towards each breed. Findings revealed differences in feelings thermometer and trust ratings across populations. All ratings were lower among the veterinary academic respondents compared to the general public and undergraduates. Veterinary students further along in their training, as well as undergraduates with clinical experience, reflected perceptions similar to those of the veterinary faculty and staff providing support for cultural transmission of beliefs during veterinary education and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M P Caddiell
- Comparative Behavioral Research, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Translational Research in Pain, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Philip White
- Department of Statistics, College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - B Duncan X Lascelles
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Translational Research in Pain, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Comparative Pain Research and Education Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Thurston Arthritis Centre, UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Translational Pain Research, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kenneth Royal
- Comparative Behavioral Research, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Kimberly Ange-van Heugten
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Environmental Medicine Consortium, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Margaret E Gruen
- Comparative Behavioral Research, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
- Comparative Pain Research and Education Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
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4
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Caddiell RMP, Cunningham RM, White PA, Lascelles BDX, Gruen ME. Pain sensitivity differs between dog breeds but not in the way veterinarians believe. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1165340. [PMID: 37435196 PMCID: PMC10332458 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1165340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Veterinarians hold distinct breed-specific pain sensitivity beliefs that differ from the general public but are highly consistent with one another. This is remarkable as there is no current scientific evidence for biological differences in pain sensitivity across dog breeds. Therefore, the present study evaluated whether pain sensitivity thresholds differ across a set of dog breeds and, if so, whether veterinarians' pain sensitivity ratings explain these differences or whether these ratings are attributed to behavioral characteristics. Methods Pain sensitivity thresholds [using quantitative sensory testing (QST) methods] and canine behaviors (using owner questionnaires and emotional reactivity tests) were prospectively measured across selected dog breeds. Adult, healthy dogs from 10 dog breeds/breed types were recruited, representing breeds subjectively rated by veterinarians as high (chihuahua, German shepherd, Maltese, Siberian husky), average (border collie, Boston terrier, Jack Russell terrier), or low (golden retriever, pitbull, Labrador retriever) pain sensitivity. A final sample of 149 dogs was included in statistical analyses. Results Veterinarians' pain sensitivity ratings provided a minimal explanation for pain sensitivity thresholds measured using QST in dogs; however, dog breeds did differ in their pain sensitivity thresholds across the QST methods evaluated. Breed differences were observed for some aspects of emotional reactivity tests; however, these behavioral differences did not explain the differences in pain sensitivity thresholds found. Veterinarians' pain sensitivity ratings were positively associated with dog approach scores for the disgruntled stranger test suggesting that the way dogs greet strangers may be a factor influencing veterinarians' ratings of pain sensitivity across dog breeds. Conclusions and clinical relevance Overall, these findings highlight a need to investigate biological mechanisms that may explain breed differences in pain sensitivity because this may inform pain management recommendations. Further, future research should focus on when and how these breed-specific pain sensitivity beliefs developed in veterinarians, as veterinarians' beliefs could impact the recognition and treatment of pain for canine patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M. P. Caddiell
- Comparative Behavioral Research, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Translational Research in Pain, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Rachael M. Cunningham
- Comparative Behavioral Research, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Translational Research in Pain, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Philip A. White
- Department of Statistics, College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States
| | - B. Duncan X. Lascelles
- Translational Research in Pain, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Comparative Pain Research and Education Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Thurston Arthritis Centre, UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Center for Translational Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Margaret E. Gruen
- Comparative Behavioral Research, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Comparative Pain Research and Education Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
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5
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Petrescu-Mag RM, Petrescu DC, Radu Tenter A. Citizens' Beliefs Regarding Dog Breed-Specific Legislation. The Case of Romania. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2023; 26:168-183. [PMID: 33982616 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2021.1923492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This contribution aimed to highlight the importance of the legal framework on human-dog interactions to better understand the "more-than-human cosmopolitanism". Thus, it gives insight into the never-ending debate of how we can share the living space with other forms of life. The study acknowledged the inconsistencies between community members' and experts' opinions on the best methods to prevent dogs' attacks, the imperative to consider concerns for animal welfare and public safety while improving the legitimacy of different implemented measures. The seriousness of the dog control problem determined the enactment of laws to limit or ban dogs purely on their breed/type. The study explores Romanian citizens beliefs regarding law labeled "dangerous" dogs within the context of Romanian breed-specific legislation (Governmental Emergency Ordinance No. 55 of 2002). An overwhelming majority of respondents considered that a dog's dangerousness must be assessed individually, according to each specimen's characteristics, and regardless of the breed/type to which it belongs. A significant percentage of people were unaware of the legal regime in place for "dangerous" dog breeds. Responsible dog ownership intertwined with learning to care could solve the societal annoyance of "blacklisted" dog breeds/type.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ancuta Radu Tenter
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai Univversity, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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6
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Kogan LR, Packman W, Erdman P, Currin-McCulloch J, Bussolari C. US Adults' Perceptions of Dog Breed Bans, Dog Aggression and Breed-Specific Laws. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10138. [PMID: 36011770 PMCID: PMC9408513 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Dog aggression directed towards people is a leading reason for relinquishment and a major public health hazard. In response to the threat of dog aggression and dog bites, breed-specific legislation has been introduced in numerous cities within the United States and countries throughout the world. There is limited evidence, however, to suggest that such laws are effective. This study explored, through an online, anonymous, cross-sectional survey, US residents' views about the bite risk of common dog breeds, breed-specific legislation, and alternative options for improved public safety. A total of 586 surveys were completed by adult US residents, 48.8% female and 48.6% male. Approximately half of the respondents reported feeling that dog bites are a serious public health issue. Although 70% of respondents were opposed to a breed ban, only 56% felt that banning specific breeds creates an animal welfare issue. Females were less likely to support a ban or agree that specific breed bans improve public safety. When participants were asked to indicate their support of several alternatives to breed-specific legislation, the most frequently endorsed options included public education about animal welfare and animal behavior, and stricter leash laws. Further research pertaining to the most effective public education dissemination methods is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori R. Kogan
- Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Wendy Packman
- Department of Psychology, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Phyllis Erdman
- College of Education, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA
| | | | - Cori Bussolari
- Counseling Psychology, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA
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7
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Isolierte bilaterale kranielle Hundebissverletzung bei einem Neugeborenen. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-022-00558-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
ZusammenfassungDurch Hundeangriffe können lebensgefährliche Verletzungen verursacht werden. Die Lokalisationen von Hundebissen korrelieren mit dem Alter und den motorischen Fähigkeiten des Opfers. Bei Kindern unter 6 Jahren finden sich im Vergleich zu Erwachsenen und älteren Kindern häufiger schwere Bisswunden, v. a. im Kopf-Hals-Bereich. Es wird der Fall eines 20 Tage alten Neugeborenen mit einer schweren Form der Osteogenesis imperfecta vorgestellt, das mit 2 Hunden allein gelassen und attackiert wurde und eine isolierte, bilaterale Kopfschwartenverletzung und intrakranielle Verletzungen erlitt. Besonderheiten von Hundebissen werden mit besonderem Augenmerk auf Säuglinge und Kinder diskutiert. Isolierte schwere Kopfverletzungen nach Hundebissen sind ein seltenes Phänomen.
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8
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How Parents Perceive the Potential Risk of a Child-Dog Interaction. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19010564. [PMID: 35010826 PMCID: PMC8744742 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Dog attacks on children are a widespread problem, which can occur when parents fail to realise a potentially dangerous interaction between a dog and a child. The aim of the study was to evaluate the ability of parents to identify dangerous situations from several everyday child–dog interactions and to determine whether the participants connected these situations to a particular breed of dog. Five sets of photographs depicting potentially dangerous interactions from everyday situations between children and three dogs (one of each breed) were presented via an online survey to parents of children no more than 6 years old. Data from 207 respondents were analysed using proc GLIMMIX in SAS program, version 9.3. The probability of risk assessment varied according to dog breed (p < 0.001) as well as to the depicted situation (p < 0.001). Results indicated that Labrador Retriever was considered the least likely of the three dogs to be involved in a dangerous dog-child interaction (with 49% predicting a dangerous interaction), followed by Parson Russell Terrier (63.2%) and American Pit Bull Terrier (65%). Participants considered one particular dog-child interaction named ‘touching a bowl’ a dangerous interaction at a high rate (77.9%) when compared with the other presented situations, which were assessed as dangerous at rates of 48.4% to 56.5%. The breed of dog seems to be an influential factor when assessing a potentially dangerous outcome from a dog-child interaction. Contrary to our hypothesis, interactions involving the small dog (Russell Terrier) were rated more critically, similarly to those of the Pit Bull Terrier. These results suggest that even popular family dog breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, should be treated with more caution.
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Lee CJ, Tiourin E, Schuljak S, Phan J, Heyming TW, Schomberg J, Wallace E, Guner YS, Vyas RM. Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Dog-bite Wounds: A 5-year Retrospective Review. West J Emerg Med 2021; 22:1301-1310. [PMID: 34787555 PMCID: PMC8597704 DOI: 10.5811/westjem.2021.9.52235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dog bites are a significant health concern in the pediatric population. Few studies published to date have stratified the injuries caused by dog bites based on surgical severity to elucidate the contributing risk factors. Methods We used an electronic hospital database to identify all patients ≤17 years of age treated for dog bites from 2013–2018. Data related to patient demographics, injury type, intervention, dog breed, and payer source were collected. We extracted socioeconomic data from the American Community Survey. Data related to dog breed was obtained from public records on dog licenses. We calculated descriptive statistics as well as relative risk of dog bite by breed. Results Of 1,252 injuries identified in 967 pediatric patients, 17.1% required consultation with a surgical specialist for repair. Bites affecting the head/neck region were most common (61.7%) and most likely to require operating room intervention (P = 0.002). The relative risk of a patient being bitten in a low-income area was 2.24, compared with 0.46 in a high-income area. Among cases where the breed of dog responsible for the bite was known, the dog breed most commonly associated with severe bites was the pit bull (relative risk vs German shepherd 8.53, relative risk vs unknown, 3.28). Conclusion The majority of injuries did not require repair and were sufficiently handled by an emergency physician. Repair by a surgical specialist was required <20% of the time, usually for bites affecting the head/neck region. Disparities in the frequency and characteristics of dog bites across socioeconomic levels and dog breeds suggest that public education efforts may decrease the incidence of pediatric dog bites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine J Lee
- University of California - Irvine School of Medicine, Department of Plastic Surgery, Orange, California.,Children's Hospital Orange County, Division of Plastic Surgery, Orange, California
| | - Ekaterina Tiourin
- University of California - Irvine School of Medicine, Department of Plastic Surgery, Orange, California
| | - Sawyer Schuljak
- University of California - Riverside, School of Medicine, Riverside, California
| | - Jonathan Phan
- University of California - Riverside, School of Medicine, Riverside, California
| | - Theodore W Heyming
- Children's Hospital Orange County, Department of Emergency Medicine, Orange, California.,University of California - Irvine School of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Orange, California
| | - John Schomberg
- Children's Hospital Orange County, Department of Nursing, Orange, California
| | - Elizabeth Wallace
- Children's Hospital Orange County, CHOC Research Institute, Orange, California
| | - Yigit S Guner
- University of California - Irvine Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Irvine, California.,Children's Hospital Orange County, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Orange, California
| | - Raj M Vyas
- University of California - Irvine School of Medicine, Department of Plastic Surgery, Orange, California.,Children's Hospital Orange County, Division of Plastic Surgery, Orange, California
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10
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Reuter Muñoz KD, Powell LE, Andersen ES, Nye AD, Powers JM, Rhodes J, Pozez AL. Analysis of Pediatric Dog Bite Injuries at a Level 1 Trauma Center Over 10 Years. Ann Plast Surg 2021; 86:S510-S516. [PMID: 34100808 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000002928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dog bite injuries cause significant preventable patient morbidity and health care expenditure in children. This study aimed to characterize the patient and healthcare burden related to pediatric dog bite injuries at a level 1 trauma center. METHODS This is a retrospective review of 356 pediatric patients who presented to Virginia Commonwealth University Pediatric Emergency Department between July 2007 and August 2017 after sustaining dog bite injuries. Demographic information, injury details, management, outcomes, and financial information were analyzed. RESULTS Most pediatric dog bite injuries afflicted male children (55.6%), ages 6 to 12 years (45.7%), by a household dog (36.2%). The most common offending breed was a pit bull or pit bull mix (53.0%). Infants and grade schoolers were more likely to sustain bites to the head/face (P = 0.001). Usual management consisted of primary repair (75.9%), whereas approximately 25% of the patients required advanced reconstructive techniques. Most patients healed uneventfully, but prolonged antibiotics, additional wound care, or procedures were necessary in 8.4% of the patients. Hospital charges per patient averaged US $8830.70 and tended to be higher in the younger age groups. Insurance status was statistically associated with use of conscious sedation, surgical consult placement, and surgical repair. CONCLUSIONS Although most pediatric dog bite injuries in this study healed uneventfully from primary management in the emergency department, 25% required additional interventions. Furthermore, patient care for these injuries was associated with significant but potentially avoidable personal and financial burden to families. Our data reflect a need for safety education on animal care, behavior, and interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren E Powell
- From the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
| | | | | | | | - Jennifer Rhodes
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Children's Hospital of Richmond
| | - Andrea L Pozez
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center; Richmond, VA
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11
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Fine AH. The Psycho-Social Impact of Human-Animal Interactions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17113964. [PMID: 32503255 PMCID: PMC7312061 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17113964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
When I was asked by the Journal to guest edit a special issue on the psychosocial impact of human-animal interactions, I was honored to accept the invitation [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Aubrey H Fine
- Department of Education, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA 91768, USA
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12
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Jakeman M, Oxley JA, Owczarczak-Garstecka SC, Westgarth C. Pet dog bites in children: management and prevention. BMJ Paediatr Open 2020; 4:e000726. [PMID: 32821860 PMCID: PMC7422634 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2020-000726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dog bite injuries are a significant public health problem and many are sustained by children. These injuries can be complex, both physically and psychologically, and in rare cases fatal. This paper will review current evidence-based approaches to treatment, explore identified patterns in biting incidents and discuss the effectiveness of prevention strategies. Safe management of these patients requires a comprehensive approach. Physical injuries need to be accurately assessed with a high index of suspicion for underlying injuries, particularly in younger children less able to communicate. Treatment depends on severity and location, but all bites must be irrigated to reduce the risk of infection but may not always require prophylactic antibiotic use. Careful exploration of the circumstances in which the bite occurred is essential to make safeguarding decisions and prevent future bites. Reducing the incidence of paediatric dog bites requires education of both children and parents that any dog can bite, regardless of breed, and all child-dog interactions must be highly supervised. However, education alone is unlikely to prevent dog bites. Policies that support environmental changes need to be developed such as provision of pet dogs less likely to bite (or bite as severely), through breeding for temperament and appropriate socialisation. Additionally, investment in psychological support for bite victims and their families is required to reduce the long-term impacts of being bitten.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Jakeman
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Merseyside, UK
| | - James A Oxley
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Livestock and One Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sara C Owczarczak-Garstecka
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Livestock and One Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Dogs Trust, London, UK
| | - Carri Westgarth
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Livestock and One Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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