New research from Johns Hopkins University underscores a growing concern: injuries related to dog walking have surged over the past two decades. As dog ownership continues to rise in the U.S., the number of related injuries has also increased, affecting both adults and children.
According to the study, which spans from 2001 to 2020, the annual number of emergency room visits for dog-walking injuries has risen sharply from 7,300 to 32,300. Lead researcher Ridge Maxson reported that women account for 75% of these injuries, with individuals aged 40 to 64 comprising 47% of the cases.
This data does not encompass injuries treated outside emergency rooms, such as those addressed in primary care or urgent care settings. Maxson noted the rise in dog ownership, partly driven by the pandemic, as a significant factor in this increase.
Safety Measures for Dog Walkers
To mitigate risks, experts recommend several precautions for dog owners. Staying focused and avoiding distractions, such as mobile phones, is crucial, especially when handling powerful or excitable dogs.
Noel Holston of Athens, Georgia, recounted a personal injury while walking his pit bull, which resulted in a severe ankle fracture after his dog bolted. Similarly, Susannah Johnston, a yoga instructor from Croton-on-Hudson, New York, sustained a fractured finger when her lab mix lunged after a squirrel.
Running with a leashed dog, particularly one that is easily startled or prone to sudden bursts of energy, also poses risks. Robert Godosky of Manhattan experienced broken ribs after his rescue dog unexpectedly darted in front of him.
Additional Risks and Recommendations
In rural areas, the danger of being struck by vehicles is a serious concern, especially when sidewalks are absent and visibility is poor. Steven Haywood, an ER doctor in Corinth, Mississippi, emphasized the importance of visibility in preventing such accidents.
For safer dog-walking practices, experts recommend:
Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with good treads and consider options with spikes or studs in snowy or icy conditions.
Leash Type: Use a non-retractable leash of 6 to 8 feet to avoid tangles and improve control. Retractable leashes can be hazardous and harder to manage.
Harnesses: A no-pull harness with the leash attached to the dog’s chest provides better control and reduces strain on the dog, according to San Francisco dog trainer Shoshi Parks.
Parks also advises holding the leash close to your torso and avoiding retractable leashes due to their potential to cause burns if they retract quickly.
Seeking Professional Help
For those with balance or mobility issues, enlisting the help of a neighbor, older child, or professional dog walker is advisable. Regular strength and balance exercises, particularly for older adults, can also help reduce the risk of falls.
Experts concur that working with a dog trainer can enhance both the dog’s behavior and the walker’s ability to manage their pet safely. As Steven Haywood points out, even strong and healthy individuals may struggle with controlling large breeds, making proper training and preparedness essential for safe dog walking.
