UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently made a significant announcement to ban all Pitbulls. This decision has sparked debates and discussions about the dangers associated with certain breeds, particularly Pitbulls.
Dog bites, including those by Pitbulls, have become a growing concern in both the United States and the United Kingdom. In the UK, hospital admissions for dog bites rose 88% from 2007 (4,699) to 2022 (8,819). US hospitalizations average about 800,000 per year.
Suffering an injury in a dog bite attack isn’t just terrifying. It’s also excruciating. Animal attacks can lead to extensive treatment and debilitation. Sand Law has extensive experience in dog bite cases and a long track record of success.
We’ll investigate the incident to determine who is to blame and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf. If you would like to schedule a free consultation, please call 651-291-7263 or contact us online.
The Dangers of Pitbull Attacks
Pitbull attacks are a cause for alarm due to several specific dangers. These dogs are known for their powerful jaws and a tendency to lock onto their target and refuse to release. Sadly, Pitbulls are responsible for a disproportionately high number of fatal dog attacks worldwide. Recent incidents in the UK have illustrated the severity of these attacks, with victims enduring painful and life-altering injuries.
In a speech, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to protect the public from dangerous dogs. He stated, “We have a responsibility to keep our communities safe, and that includes protecting people from dangerous dogs. We will not tolerate this kind of behavior, and we will take whatever steps are necessary to protect the public.”
Why Ban All Pitbulls?
The arguments in favor of banning Pitbulls are multifaceted:
- Many believe these dogs are inherently dangerous due to their physical characteristics and breeding history.
- Pitbulls can be challenging to rehabilitate once they display aggressive behavior.
- Pitbulls are often exploited in illegal activities, such as dogfighting, increasing their risk to society.
Statistics on Dog Bites in the US and the UK
Dog bites are a widespread issue with significant implications for public safety and well-being. In the UK, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) reported a staggering 8,000 dog bite incidents in 2021-22. Meanwhile, in the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates more than 4.5 million people suffer dog bites every year.
In the US, Pitbulls are responsible for nearly 70% of all dog attacks, even though they only make up 6% of the population of dogs in our country.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average insurance claim arising from a dog bite is nearly $65,000. Some claims, of course, will be much higher due to the devastating consequences of an attack.
But the emotional costs can be just as horrible. When someone suffers severe injuries after an attack, they may never feel comfortable around a dog for the rest of their lives. Sometimes, they may fear walking around their neighborhood or leaving their home.
Facts About Dog Bites
No one should paint any breed with a broad brush. If a breed is known as “aggressive,” that doesn’t mean every dog in that group will attack. But, unfortunately, there are some breeds that, in general, are more dangerous than others.
Some breeds often associated with dangerous behavior include Pitbulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds. The following is a brief look at what experts consider breeds of concern, ranked by the number of fatal attacks in the US between 2005-2017.
- Pitbull – 284
- Rottweiler – 45
- German Shepherd – 20
- Mixed breeds – 17
- American bulldog – 15
However, it’s essential to reinforce the fact that an individual dog’s behavior can vary widely, and breed alone should never be the sole determining factor in assessing a dog’s temperament.
Target Areas and Potential Consequences of a Dog Bite
When dog bites do occur, they frequently affect the face or neck. This is especially the case when it comes to children. A child’s face and neck are often at the same level as the dog’s head, making these areas more vulnerable during an interaction.
Dog bites can result in a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more severe consequences. These injuries may include broken bones, deep lacerations, and infections due to bacteria in a dog’s mouth. Tragically, in some extreme cases, dog bites can lead to fatalities, especially when vital areas like the neck are involved.
Are Pitbulls More Dangerous Than Other Dogs?
Whether Pitbulls are inherently more dangerous than other dog breeds is a topic of debate. While it’s crucial not to generalize about all Pitbulls, statistics suggest that they’re more likely to cause severe bites than other breeds. This is partly due to their physical strength, bite force, and historical association with dogfighting activities.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Breeding: Pitbulls have been historically bred for various purposes, including dog fighting. Some breeders have focused on breeding for aggression, which can contribute to a higher likelihood of aggressive behavior in specific individuals.
- Physical characteristics: Pitbulls are known for their muscular build and powerful jaw strength. Experts have measured the bite force of the American pit bull at 235 psi (pound-force per square inch. For comparison, a human’s bite force is about 120 psi. While these traits don’t necessarily make them more dangerous, they can potentially lead to more severe injuries if a bite does occur.
- Socialization and training: Upbringing, socialization, and training strongly impact a dog’s behavior. Correctly socialized and trained Pitbulls can be friendly and well-behaved like any other breed.
- Ownership and environment: The responsibility lies with the owner to ensure they raise their dog in a safe and nurturing environment. Neglect, abuse, or irresponsible ownership can lead to aggressive behavior in any breed.
Are Pit Bulls Illegal in America?
The legality of owning pit bulls in the United States varies from place to place. There is no nationwide ban on Pitbulls in the United States. However, the regulation of Pitbull ownership is left to individual states, cities, and municipalities.
Some areas have implemented breed-specific legislation (BSL), which may restrict or outright ban the ownership of certain breeds, including Pitbulls. BSL aims to reduce the risk of dog attacks, but its effectiveness is a subject of debate. Since 2018, 120 US cities have repealed their previous BSL.
Contact Sand Law If You Suffered A Serious Dog Bite
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Sand Law if you or someone you love suffered a severe injury in a dog bite attack. We’ll do all we can to help you obtain the money needed to recover financially while you recover physically. Use our online form or call 651-291-7263 for a free case review.