Periocular dog bite injuries and responsible care.
OBJECTIVE
To report patients who received dog bite injuries to the periocular area and the incidence of repeat attacks by the biting dog and its disposition. To discuss the demographics of bite attacks, occult injuries, steps to avoid medicolegal problems, and the appropriate options for animal disposition.


METHODS
Single-practice prospective case series of dog attacks on 18 victims. Patients were followed and questioned about any repeat attacks by the offending dog.


RESULTS
Of 18 individuals who received dog bites to the perio-ocular area, only 2 were >12 years old. Of the 16 cases available for follow-up (4 months to 3 years; mean, 16 months), 7 of the dogs were euthanized and 1 was sent away from the family. Of the 8 remaining animals, 5 (63%) bit again. All the dogs bit family members or family friends.


CONCLUSIONS
Although most dogs make wonderful pets, canine bites pose a significant public health concern, and some simple steps may be taken to protect against personal injury and legal fallout from repeat attacks.
Burroughs
John R
JR
The 96th Medical Group (Eglin Regional Hospital), Department of Ophthalmology, Eglin AFB, Florida, USA.
Soparkar
Charles N S
CN
Patrinely
James R
JR
Williams
Patrick D
PD
Holck
David E E
DE
D000374:Aggression; D000818:Animals; D001522:Behavior, Animal; D001733:Bites and Stings; D002648:Child; D004285:Dogs; D037901:Euthanasia, Animal; D006801:Humans; D009915:Orbit / Q000293:injuries*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012008:Recurrence; D012941:Social Responsibility