Maine
Are Dogs A Real Danger?
A National Canine Research Council Perspective Report
Over the past 43 years (1965 - present) there have been two (2) fatal dog attacks in Maine, or approximately one (1) fatality every 21 years.
Two different breeds were involved in the two fatal attacks in Maine.
Both cases involved young children and a resident dog, and both appear to be unfortunate accidents. (1969, 1999)
The most recent case involved a very young child who tripped over a sleeping dog and the child received a single, lethal bite from the startled dog.
No doubt there are some negligent and less than responsible dog owners in Maine, yet dogs still pose an incredibly low risk for causing a fatality:
Fatal Dog Attacks in Maine as Compared to Other Selected Risks:
Snapshot of Maine: Year 2005
| Persons killed by dogs: | 0 |
| Child abuse death: | 1 |
| Bicycle related fatalities: | 3 |
| Persons drowned in bathtub or swimming pool: | 5 |
| ATV-related fatalities: | 11 |
| Alcohol-related traffic fatalities: | 60 |
| Total traffic fatalities (alcohol & non): | 169 |
| Tobacco-related deaths: | 2,200 |
So, are dogs a danger? Fact is, people in Maine routinely accept far greater risks from bicycles, ATVs and swimming pools than any that are associated with companion animals.
www.nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com