03-06-2025
Nearly one in five children in Wales bitten by a pet
The figures were revealed by animal welfare charities during Child Safety Week, which runs from June 2 to 8.
A survey of more than 1,000 children aged seven to 11 found that 18 per cent had been bitten by a pet, and nearly half of those incidents required a visit to the doctor.
Dr Sam Gaines, a dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: "These shocking figures are understandably worrying and highlight why it's so important that parents and guardians are aware of how to prevent dog bites and able to be present and actively supervise interactions between dogs and children."
Despite warnings from animal welfare organisations, 76 per cent of children in Wales said they are left unsupervised with their pets at least once a week.
The Pet Education Partnership, which includes the RSPCA, Dogs Trust, and other charities, is offering educational sessions to promote child safety around animals during Child Safety Week.
