NEW YORK, April 8, 2024—U.S. insurers paid out $1.12 billion in dog-related injury claims in 2023 according to the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) and State Farm.

Janet Ruiz, director of strategic communications at the Triple-I, highlighted that the number of dog bite and related injury claims in 2023 was 19,062, with a total cost of $1.12 billion. She emphasized the importance of education and training for owners and pets to ensure safety and health.

State Farm, as the largest property insurer in the country, is dedicated to educating people on pet owner responsibility and safe interactions with dogs. Heather Paul, a media relations specialist at State Farm, stressed that all dogs, regardless of breed, have the potential to bite or cause injury due to their unique personalities.

In light of National Dog Bite Prevention Week, Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), urged increased understanding and proactive prevention of dog bites. She emphasized the preventability of most dog bite incidents and the importance of nurturing the bonds shared with dogs while ensuring the safety of families and communities.

Victoria Stilwell, a celebrity dog trainer and behavior expert, echoed the sentiment of empowerment through knowledge to enhance relationships between dogs and their owners, ultimately reducing the likelihood of bite incidents.

The National Dog Bite Prevention Week Coalition, comprising organizations like AVMA, State Farm, Triple I, and Victoria Stilwell Positively, will host a Facebook Live event on April 11. The event aims to provide training tips, guidance on socializing dogs post-isolation, and identifying warning signs of potential dog bites.

As part of the prevention efforts, the Coalition shared essential tips:

- Ensuring the pet's health and regular veterinary check-ups.

- Prioritizing proper socialization for dogs.

- Understanding and meeting the dog's needs through positive training techniques.

- Being responsible in approaching other people's pets and monitoring dog activities for signs of discomfort.

The Coalition's collective efforts seek to raise awareness, educate pet owners, and promote responsible dog ownership to reduce the incidence of dog-related injuries and claims.