Annual Probability of a Pet-Related ER Visit
~0.3%
Annual probability in US
About 86,000 Americans visit the ER each year due to pet-related injuries, most commonly from tripping over or being pulled by dogs.
Pet-related injuries send approximately 86,000 Americans to the emergency room each year, according to CDC data. Dogs are responsible for about 88% of these injuries. The most common injury scenarios include being tripped or falling over a pet (the leading cause, especially for seniors), being pulled or dragged by a dog on a leash, scratches and bites, and being knocked down by a jumping dog.
Falls related to pets are particularly dangerous for older adults, with adults 65 and older having the highest fracture rate from pet-related falls. Dog walking-related fractures increased by about 163% between 2004 and 2017 among older adults. Small dogs are disproportionately involved in tripping incidents, while large dogs more often cause injuries by pulling or jumping.
Cat-related injuries are less common in ER data but include scratches (which can lead to cat scratch disease from Bartonella henselae), bites, and tripping. Prevention measures include obedience training, using appropriate leashes and harnesses, keeping pathways clear of pet toys and supplies, using nightlights to see pets in the dark, and being cautious when walking dogs near other animals.
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