Using civil claim enquiry data to understand the context and impact of dog-related injuries in England and Wales between 2017 and 2024
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Background
Dog-related injuries, particularly bites, are a growing public health concern, yet key context for effective prevention remains limited. This study takes a novel approach by analysing civil claims enquiry data to describe the context and impact of dog bite and non-bite incidents in England and Wales.
Methods
Descriptive analysis of anonymised civil claims enquiry data from 2017 to 2024. Demographic and injury consequences were compared between bite and non-bite incidents using Chi2 and Mann-Witney U tests.
Results
A total of 816 incidents (842 claims) were analysed; 91.3% were dog bites, 6.7% dog strikes. Bites occurred outside of residential properties (40.9%) or on public highways or pavements (22.0%). Non-bite incidents were in public spaces (44.3%) or public highways or pavements (38.6%). Delivery workers accounted for 32.4% of victims. Most dogs were off lead at the time of injury (80.2% bites, 85.7% non-bites). Fractures occurred in 72.7% of non-bite incidents. Mental illness followed in 15.1% of bite cases and 10.0% of non-bites; 6.5% were diagnosed with a specific phobia, 4.1% with post-traumatic stress disorder. Work absence was reported in 59.5% of bites, whilst 54.3% reported lost earnings.
Discussion
Civil claims data offer valuable insights into the burden and context of dog-related injuries. Dog strikes, though less common, often result in severe injury. Most public incidents involve unrestrained dogs. This work provides emerging evidence of the psychological impact of dog-related injuries.
Conclusions
We present a novel methodology for contextual injury research and highlight the need to assess enforceable dog lead use on highways and certain public spaces.
What is already known on this topic
Dog-related injuries, particularly bites, are recognised as a growing public health concern. Contextual information critical for prevention strategies is limited, with a focus on injuries within the home. This study proposes a new methodology, of analysing legal claims data, to identify contextual injury information.
What this study adds
We now know that most public dog-related injuries occur when a dog is unrestrained. Dog strike-related injuries are likely to be more severe than previously thought. For the first time, we show the degree of psychological trauma resultant of these injuries.
How might this study affect research, practice, or policy
This study supports an exploration of legislative change to mandate lead usage in certain public spaces, reducing off-lead incidents and improving public safety. More research is needed into the psychological consequences of dog-related trauma and what patient support is needed.
