Cat Saves Boy From Dog Attack
In a story that made national headlines, a young boy was saved from an attack by a vicious dog by the unlikeliest of heroes: his pet cat.
The four-year-old California child appears on surveillance video riding his tricycle in front of his home. A dog runs up behind him and grabs him by the leg, dragging him from the bike and toward the street. Suddenly, in a burst of fury, Tara the cat launches itself at the dog, causing the animal to drop the boy and run. Another surveillance camera shows the cat continue to chase the dog for several yards before returning to the victim. Because of the cat’s quick action, the boy only needed a few stitches and is expected to make a full recovery. “Tara is my hero,” he said.
The dog, which belonged to a neighbor, is under quarantine at a local animal control center and will be euthanized.
Dog Bite Injury Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are approximately 4.5 million dog bites each year in the United States. About 20 percent of these victims seek medical attention. Half of all people seen in hospital emergency rooms for dog bites are children. About 27,000 people required reconstruction surgery in 2012 for dog bite injuries.
Children are more likely than adults to be treated for dog bites, and children between the ages of five and nine are most likely to be bitten. Men are more likely than women to suffer dog bites as well.
As the number of dogs in a home increases, the chances of dog bites increase. Most people who suffer dog bites are bitten on private property rather than in public locations.
What To Do If You Are A Dog Bite Victim
If you have been the victim of a dog bite injury, it is very important to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you believe the bite is not serious, dogs can transmit diseases that can cause grave health risks.
Once you have been treated for your bites, it is important to notify authorities and seek the help of a personal injury attorney. Daniel M. Gilleon has been helping San Diego residents with dog bite injuries and other personal injuries for many years and may be able to help you recover damages in a dog bite case. You may be able to receive payment for your medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. Contact Daniel M. Gilleon in San Diego today to learn more.
