Surgeon calls for better protection for children from dog bites

After dog bite attacks, the head of pediatric surgery at Leipzig University Hospital (UKL) has called for better protection for children. "Such attacks deeply traumatize children and cause them permanent injuries," said surgeon Martin Lacher. The facial injuries not only leave scars, but also shape the children's lives, often combined with psychological wounds that never heal completely.

Dog bites children in the face

In mid-August, a Great Dane attacked and bit two children (four and eight years old) in a restaurant in Torgau (district of North Saxony). "These were extensive, very deep bite wounds in the middle of the face," said the pediatric surgeon. "It's not something we see every day, but unfortunately it's far too common now." This year, 10 children have already been treated as inpatients at the UKL following dog bites, compared to 24 last year.

He appealed to adults to take more responsibility. This included protective measures such as training for dog owners, especially family dogs, to increase "dog-child competence". Rules for children when dealing with dogs are also important.

"Small children in particular are disproportionately often affected, as they often do not yet understand the boundaries of dogs," said Lacher. Even if the children are trained, they have no chance against an aggressive dog. "A 60-kilogram dog that attacks an eight-year-old girl is vastly superior and often cannot be stopped by the owner."

Treat every dog bite due to the risk of infection

In general, every dog bite should be treated by a doctor, said the pediatric surgeon. "Even small bite wounds can lead to serious infections. And in the case of injuries to the face or hands, a specialist should be consulted at an early stage to at least reduce the long-term consequences."