We Cover All Costs Until You Receive A Settlement Or Trial Award

Dog attacks tend to increase in the summer months

On Behalf of | Jun 10, 2020 | Dog Bites |

Summer is associated with fun, sunshine and relaxation. In the St. Cloud metro area, you can experience these things in droves in our many parks. In the summer, many people also choose to bring their dogs on outdoor excursions to enjoy the warm weather. Unfortunately, this means that the frequency of dog attacks tends to increase during the summer.

Why do bites and attacks go up in summer?

Man’s best friend can turn and bite at any time of year, so why do dog attacks tend to increase in the summer? There are a few hypotheses and potential remedies:

  • Social gatherings

Summer means more social gatherings, so dogs are surrounded by several other people and animals, some of whom may be unfamiliar to them. This can cause stress to an animal and prompt a bite attack. To reduce the likelihood of an attack, limit dogs to social gatherings that will not overwhelm them.

  • Hot weather

Extreme heat can make even the calmest human feel testy. In dogs, heat can bring out aggression and stress. By keeping a dog cool and comfortable, you can prevent heat-related attacks.

  • More dogs outside

Let’s face it: in Minnesota’s bitter winters, fewer people—and dogs—want to go outside. But during the gorgeous summer, everyone wants to be outdoors, including four-legged creatures. A higher concentration of dogs may correlate to the higher rate of attacks. To remain safe, be aware of your surroundings. If there are lots of dogs around you, remain vigilant of a potential bite.

What to do if a dog bites you

Even the most cautious of humans and the most well-trained of dogs may experience a dog attack. If a dog bites you or someone you love, immediately seek medical attention. In severe attacks, call an ambulance. Get the name and contact information of the dog’s owner as well as the names contact information of any witnesses. Remember not to speak to any insurance companies; instead, work with an attorney who has experience in animal attacks.