Epidemiological characterization of canine bites to humans from 2012 to 2022 in the Aysén Region: An animal behavior and welfare perspective

Abstract

The human-dog relationship, rooted in over 15,000 years of domestication, offers companionship but also presents public health challenges such as dog bites. This study investigates epidemiological canine bite incidents to humans in Chile's Aysén region at population level from 2012 to 2022, analysing 4593 records from public and private healthcare centres. Data include demographic, geographic, and injury-specific variables. Results indicate that bites are more frequent during spring (n=1317, 28.7%) and summer (n= 1245, 27.1%), with urban settings accounting for 95.8% of cases. Men (n=2597, 56.5%) and adults (n=2227, 48.5%) are predominantly affected, though significant proportions of bites occur among children (n= 882, 19.2%) and adolescents (n= 936, 20.4%). Bites to the head, neck, and thorax disproportionately affect children, whereas adults more frequently sustain injuries to the extremities. Public spaces account for 42.9% of incidents (n=1970), with most bites inflicted by unknown dogs (n= 3137, 68.3%). The findings highlight the importance of targeted interventions, particularly in urban areas and among vulnerable populations such as children. Public health strategies should emphasise education on canine behavior, responsible pet ownership, and community-level prevention measures. Addressing underreporting and incorporating ethological assessments could further refine prevention strategies. This research underscores the need for comprehensive data collection and tailored policies to enhance animal welfare, mitigate bite risks, and foster safer human-animal interactions.