In recent years, injuries related to dog walking have surged among both adults and children in the United States, according to research from Johns Hopkins University. The data reveals a significant rise in such injuries, which typically include fractures, sprains, and head trauma.
Between 2001 and 2020, the annual number of adults treated for dog-walking injuries in emergency rooms jumped from 7,300 to 32,300, as reported by lead researcher Ridge Maxson in a discussion with the Associated Press. Women accounted for 75% of these cases, with nearly half involving adults aged 40 to 64. However, Maxson cautioned that these figures represent only emergency room visits; many injuries might be treated at other medical facilities, such as primary care or urgent care centers.
The increase in dog ownership—now common in about 50% of U.S. households—may be contributing to this rise in injuries.
Strategies for Preventing Injuries
Ensuring safety while walking a dog requires careful attention and, at times, specialized equipment. This is especially important in adverse weather conditions. Multitasking, such as using a mobile phone, can pose risks. Noel Holston, a dog owner from Athens, Georgia, emphasizes the need for focus: “You can’t really afford to relax when you walk a powerfully built dog… You have to pay attention.”
Holston shared his own experience from the early 2000s, recounting an incident where his dog chased a bird, pulling him off the sidewalk and resulting in a severe ankle injury. “I stepped into a hole and heard my left ankle snap. The pain was so intense. I almost passed out,” Holston, now 76, recalled.
Running with a leashed dog also presents risks, especially with an untrained or excitable animal. Robert Godosky of New York City described a situation where his new dog startled and ran in front of him, causing him to fall and break two ribs.
Rural areas present additional hazards, such as traffic accidents. Steven Haywood, an emergency room physician in Corinth, Mississippi, warns of the dangers posed by roads lacking sidewalks or shoulders. Wearing dark clothing and lacking reflectors or lights can exacerbate these risks.
Safety Recommendations
To mitigate risks while walking dogs, experts recommend several strategies:
Footwear: During snowy or icy conditions, opt for shoes with good treads or those with spikes for better traction.
Leash Choice: Use a non-retractable leash that measures between 1.8 and 2.4 meters. Longer or retractable leashes can lead to entanglements or burns if not managed carefully.
Harness: In San Francisco, dog trainer Shoshi Parks advocates for a no-pull harness with the leash clipped to the dog’s chest. This setup offers better control and reduces strain on both the dog and walker. She also advises against retractable leashes due to potential injuries from their sudden retraction.
Walking Technique: Hold the leash near your torso or thigh, and avoid holding it too tightly to prevent burns.
Additional Precautions
For those with balance or mobility issues, seeking assistance from neighbors, older children, or professional dog walkers can be beneficial, especially in poor weather conditions. Balance and strength-training exercises are recommended to reduce the risk of falls and fractures. Additionally, working with a dog trainer can enhance both the dog’s and the owner’s ability to manage walks safely.
As Dr. Haywood notes, “Even young, healthy, strong people may have difficulty controlling larger breeds that aren’t used to walking on a leash. Any exercise to improve strength and balance will help. Make sure you can control the dog that you’re walking.”
By following these guidelines, dog owners can reduce the likelihood of injuries and ensure a safer walking experience.
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