Dog Bites in San Antonio: The Most Common Locations Unveiled
Reported Incidents of Dog Bites: An In-Depth Analysis
In a period of 18 months, over 4,800 dog bites have been reported in San Antonio, according to data from the City’s Animal Care Services (ACS). The I-Team has compiled the data to track the locations where these incidents are most prevalent, uncovering patterns that may serve as warning signals for residents and visitors. A staggering 300 of these incidents took place in the 78207 zip code region.
San Antonio’s 78207: A Hot Spot for Dog Bites
The 78207 zip code covers Prospect Hill, Gardendale, Avenida Guadalupe, Collins Garden, and Brady Gardens. It was in this neighborhood that 81-year-old Ramon Najera tragically lost his life in a dog attack in February 2023. The harrowing incident brought to focus the prevailing issues of loose and aggressive dogs in the area, which has consistently reported a higher rate of animal incidents.
Local Resident Responses to Dog Activity in the Area
During the sentencing of the couple who owned the dogs involved in Ramon Najera’s deadly attack, neighbors testified to the recurring problem of loose animals in the neighborhood, shedding light on visible safety concerns within the community.
What Should You Do If Bitten by A Dog?
According to the ACS, dog bites carry a potential risk of rabies. As such, the ACS advises the following steps for those who’ve suffered an animal bite:
- Immediately call 311 and provide as much detail about the animal and owner as possible.
- Clean the wound well with soap and hot water as an interim first aid measure.
- Consult a physician at the earliest opportunity to assess the risk of rabies and whether post-exposure treatment is required.
- Regardless of the biting animal’s vaccination status, it must undergo a compulsory ten-day quarantine period or be humanely euthanized.
City Measures to Tackle Dog Bites
All animal bites inflicted on humans and breaking the skin must, by state law, be reported to the local rabies control authority. The ACS, representing the City of San Antonio, is certified to manage animal bite cases, and any reported rabies exposures are tackled immediately.
Educational Resources from the City
The city of San Antonio has also developed a series of instructive videos demonstrating how residents can best protect themselves from dog bites, maintain safety while walking, and the processes involved in completing an aggressive or dangerous dog affidavit.
Vaccination Policies in San Antonio
San Antonio’s regulations stipulate that all pet dogs, cats, and ferrets are required to be vaccinated against rabies by the age of four months. A follow-up vaccination is to be administered one year later, followed by subsequent vaccinations every three years.