Dog Bite Prevention Week MEDIA SESSION

SHELTERING SAFELY WITH PETS AT HOME

Join the 2020 Dog Bite Prevention Week coalition members for a media-only session to learn more about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on dog bites and behavior.

The coronavirus (COVID-19) has introduced a good deal of uncertainty into our lives, as well as our pets. As people shelter at home with children and pets, adopt new animals or foster dogs for sick family and friends, now is the time to reinforce safety and responsible pet ownership as a way to reduce the risk of dog-related injuries.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week is April 12-18, 2020.

Members of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week Coalition include the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), State Farm®, Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), American Humane, and the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training and Behavior.

Representatives from the coalition will share information and resources about how COVID-19 is impacting pets and increasing the risk of dogs biting people in the home. Experts will also provide safety and training tips for sheltering at home with dogs, provide information on how to support animal shelters and rescues struggling with resources, and dog-related injury insurance claims data for 2019.

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Dr. John Howe
• Celebrity dog trainer, author and TV personality - Victoria Stilwell
• American Humane – Dr. Lesa Staubus
• State Farm - Heather Paul, Specialist – Public Affairs
• Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) - Janet Ruiz, Director - Strategic Communications

Dog bites are a nationwide issue and pose a double tragedy to the victim and the fate of the dog. Children and babies are at the highest risk for injury. These tragedies are preventable through responsible pet ownership including the training of owners and pets.

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