Dog bites remain a substantial issue within the paediatric population. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a marked increase in pet ownership during ‘lockdown’ periods. Overseas studies have suggested consequent increases in dog-related injury. It is unclear whether similar increases occurred locally, or if any such increases were sustained post-pandemic. This retrospective study analysed data from patients presenting to a single paediatric tertiary centre between 2017 and 2023, including significant lockdowns during 2020 and 2021.
In seven years, a total of 791 dog bite cases were identified; of these, 331 were admitted. The median age was 5 years, with the youngest patient aged 27 days; 55% were male. The median age increased over the study duration.
Bite injuries were seen in all body regions, although over 70% of admitted patients had facial injuries. Injuries included fractures to the skull and mandible. 274 patients (35%) required surgery, with 15 patients requiring multiple operations. Injury patterns, and the proportion of patients requiring surgery were both unchanged over time.
Dog bites increased by over 30% in 2020 compared to previous years; higher numbers were seen in subsequent years with 2020 and 2023 recording equal numbers.
Thirteen patients had two separate bite events; in the majority of these cases both bites were from the same dog
Dog bites remain a significant contributor to child injury burden. This study is the first to identify sustained changes in post-pandemic incidence, and to quantify recidivism in this population. Findings may be applied to the development of appropriate education and prevention strategies.