State Farm: Arizona Ranks No. 11 Nationally on People Bitten by Dogs Every Year

State Farm has released alarming national statistics when it comes to dog attacks nationally. In 2013, State Farm paid $104 million as a result of 3,700 dog bite claims. Out of these, the insurer has paid $510 million for claims resulting from accidents involving a dog.

These accidents could have been prevented.

This is why as part of National Dog Bite Prevention Week, State Farm partnered with Victoria Stilwell, internationally renowned dog trainer, author, and star of Animal Planet’s It’s Me or the Dog, to teach people how to be responsible pet owners and reduce the number of dog bites.

“Through my work as a dog trainer, educator and bite investigation advisor, I see all sides of the dog bite issue, but it is my role as a mother that drives me to continue educating and empowering all children with the right knowledge to keep them K-9 safe and smart,” she said.

Top 15 States for State Farm Dog Bite Claims in 2013

1. California                      449 claims                    $14.7 million paid
2. Illinois                           309 claims                    $8.9 million paid
3. Ohio                             221 claims                    $4.2 million paid
4. Texas                           207 claims                    $4.0 million paid
5. Pennsylvania                 180 claims                    $5.8 million paid
6. Michigan                       162 claims                    $3.9 million paid
7. New York                      149 claims                    $6.4 million paid
8. Indiana                          146 claims                    $3.5 million paid
9. Minnesota                     120 claims                    $4.0 million paid
10. Georgia                           106 claims                    $2.1 million paid
11. Arizona                         105 claims                    $2.8 million paid
12. Florida                          93 claims                     $5.5 million paid
13. Oregon                          91 claims                     $1.4 million paid
14. Missouri                        88 claims                     $2.0 million paid
15. New Jersey                   86 claims                     $4.3 million paid

Remember, a responsible dog owner should:

• Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog, even if it is a family pet. Children are often bitten by a dog in their own household.
• Ask permission before touching or playing with a dog.
• Remember that any dog can be dangerous and any dog can bite.