Introduction

Children are susceptible to animal bites. Their relative inexperience with animals, general curiosity and small size contribute to their lesser ability to avoid or defend themselves from an attacking animal.

Why are animal and human bites important?

Animal and human bites present a common and potentially preventable source of morbidity and rare mortality in the pediatric population. Individual as well as public means of prevention should be encouraged. A comprehensive knowledge of the recognition and treatment of animal bites is important for any physician caring for children.

see also Soft Tissue Trauma