WASHINGTON – The Humane Society of the United States today applauded the introduction by U.S. Rep. Thaddeus G. McCotter (R-11th/Mich.) of a resolution encouraging municipalities to adopt and enforce protections against dog bites. H. Res. 1013 addresses the serious issue of dangerous dogs and what can be done to prevent them from biting. The Centers for Disease Control concluded that 800,000 dog bites per year are serious enough to require medical attention.
"This resolution encourages the humane treatment of animals and the protection of our Postal Letter Carriers and every citizen," said Rep. McCotter. "Congress must urge communities to put teeth into their dog bite ordinances, rather than facilitate dogs putting their teeth into citizens."
"Millions of Americans share their homes with dogs and share a special bond with these animals, and the vast majority of interactions between people and dogs are happy and safe," said Michael Markarian, executive vice president of The HSUS. "But there are two types of dogs with an increased likelihood to bite—chained dogs and male dogs who have not been neutered."
The CDC has determined that over 70 percent of dogs involved in attacks are unneutered males. "The HSUS encourages all dog owners to have their pets sterilized," said Markarian. "This important and routine procedure will reduce a dog's desire to roam, fight with other dogs, or behave aggressively towards people."
In addition, the CDC, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the American Veterinary Medical Association have all determined that chaining or tethering creates dogs who are at a significantly greater risk to bite. "The practice of chaining dogs for long periods of time is inhumane and poses a risk to the dogs involved, other animals, and the entire community," said Markarian.
"Chaining and sterilization should be a priority for all communities addressing dog bite and dangerous dog issues," Markarian continued. "We are extremely grateful to Representative McCotter for introducing this important resolution to protect dogs and public safety, and we urge all members of Congress to support his humane and sensible effort."
A copy of H. Res. 1013 is available on request. For information on preventing and avoiding dog bites, visit www.NoDogBites.org.
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization with more than 9.8 million members and constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, marine mammals, animals in research, equine protection, and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy and field work. The nonprofit organization is based in Washington and has field representatives and offices across the country. On the web at www.hsus.org.
