Delaware
Are Dogs A Real Danger?
A National Canine Research Council Perspective Report
Over the past 43 years (1965 - present) there have been 2 fatal dog attacks in Delaware, or an average of one (1) fatal dog attack every 21 years.
Two different breeds/types of dogs were involved in the two fatal attacks in the state.
Both cases involved the victim (one adult and one child) attempting to interact with an unfamiliar, chained dog (1989, 2002).
Both of the dogs involved in fatal attacks in Delaware were intact (not neutered).
In spite of the reckless ownership practices of some dog owners, dogs still pose an incredibly low risk for causing a fatality:
Fatal Dog Attacks in Delaware as Compared to Other Selected Risks:
Snapshot of Delaware: (5 years) 2001 - 2005
| Persons killed by dogs: | 1 |
| Persons killed by lightning: | 1 |
| ATV-related fatalities: | 4 |
| Persons drowned in swimming pool: | 9 |
| Bicycle-related fatalities: | 15 |
| Alcohol-related traffic deaths: | 64 |
| Total traffic fatalities (alcohol & non): | 133 |
| Tobacco-related deaths: | > 1,200 |
So, are dogs a danger? Fact is, people in Delaware routintely accept far greater risks from ATVs, bicycles and swimming pools than any that are associated with companion animals.
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