THE TEN MOST COMMON PET-RELATED INJURIES

Have you ever been tripped over by your dog? Has your cat ever scratched you so badly that it’s drawn blood? Has your rabbit ever bitten you? Then you’re not alone, according to a new survey by the Pet Owners Association.

Injuries and accidents caused by household pets range from bites and scratches to strains and even burns according to the study. Bruises and tripping as a result of falling over our animals is the number one cause of pet-related injury, with one in five pet owners having experienced this. For an activity that is supposed to be so good us, our pets would seem to be the cause of a lot of trouble and strife!

It has been widely recognised for several years now that pet ownership is linked to good health. Indeed, the British Medical Journal said in 2005 that pet owners have a reduced risk of heart disease, lower use of family doctor services, and that there is a reduced risk of asthma and allergies in young children whose families have a cat or a dog. It suggested that social benefits and emotional support explain the link and contribute to human health, particularly for older people and patients recovering from major illness

However, the new survey shows that owning a pet isn’t all about cuddling your cat and walking your dog on the moors! These 567 pet owners might beg to differ, with some unusual if obviously fairly common ways in which your pet can cause accidents and injuries:

1. Bruises from tripping and falling over pets .......................................................... 21%
2. Repetitive Strain injuries from throwing balls & sticks for dogs .................... 17%
3. Puncture wounds & scratches from trying to put a cat into a basket .......... 13%
4. Back strains from putting down pet food & water ............................................. 12%
5. Puncture wounds & scratches from trying to give a cat a tablet ................... 11%
6. Minor burns from getting caught up in nylon dog leads .................................... 10%
7. Back strains from lifting a dog into the car ............................................................ 7%
8. Scratches while trying to move a cat from a piece of furniture ....................... 5%
9. Bruises from being swept off feet whilst walking dog ........................................ 3%
10. Bites from parrots & budgies when cleaning the cage ...................................... 1%

Source: Pet Owners Association

When it comes down to it though, although we might have to put up with bruises, scratches and bites from those we voluntarily choose to look after and to feed, and although you’d think they might be a little more grateful, we wouldn’t be without them, would we?!

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Posted: 21 July 2008
See Also:
Cat Accessories
Dog Accessories
Rabbit Accessories
Pet Care Advice