Wales sees significant rise in hospital admissions due to dog bites

Research published in the journal Public Health shows a significant increase in incidences of dog bites in Wales.

The analysis from University of Liverpool veterinary researchers and partners shows that hospital admissions due to dog bites and strikes in Wales rose from 16.3 per 100,000 in 2014 to 23.7 per 100,000 in 2022.

This is a higher incidence, and faster rate of growth, than England and the Republic of Ireland (Northern Ireland and Scotland have not publicly published data on dog bite incidence trends, victim demographics or hotspots).

The University of Liverpool's Dr. John Tulloch said, "Our research highlights the scale of the dog bite problem in Wales, and the need for further research, investment, and legislative reform in affected communities to help prevent serious dog bites and strikes."

The researchers have highlighted a pressing need to investigate the underlying causes of high dog bite rates in Wales and develop targeted prevention strategies, particularly in socio-economically deprived areas.

They also suggest that current dog control legislation may be insufficient, especially for incidents occurring within homes.

The rise in hospital admissions was primarily among non-geriatric adults. Children (≤14 years), whose incidence did not rise, accounted for 20.8% of these admissions.

The Swansea Bay area had the highest incidence of dog bite admissions in Wales, at 56.1 per 100,000 population, this is higher than any area in England. Cwm Taf Morgannwg and Betsi Cadwaladr regions have also shown significant increases in dog bite admissions.

More information:
S.C. Owczarczak-Garstecka et al, Welsh hospital admissions due to dog bites and strikes (2014–2022), Public Health (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2024.05.010

Provided by University of Liverpool