DOG attacks that led to Brits needing hospital treatment have rocketed in 12 months

RSPCA specialists blamed it on Brits impulse buying puppies over the pandemic.

But numbers continue to rise.

And now St John Ambulance and the RSPCA are urging families to take steps to avoid attacks over the hot summer.

They said: “St John Ambulance and the RSPCA want children, adults and four-legged friends to enjoy a carefree, happy summer in parks and public spaces and are issuing practical steps to keep safe around dogs and first aid advice, if bitten.  

“The simple message is, any dog can bite, and to ‘Be alert, Be aware, Be safe’. “

There are an estimated 12 million dogs in the UK, with 8,655 attacks being reported in 2021/2022.

This is up by 1,231 from 2020/2021, when there were 7,424.

With most fatal attacks happening in the home, the RSPCA warned owners to steer clear of dogs showing their teeth, growling, yawning, lip licking and lowering their head and ears back as these are signs that a dog needs space and feels anxious.

And they warned that children should never be alone with your pup.

Head of Clinical Operations at St John Ambulance, Steve Hatton, said: “it is vital parents, children and dog owners understand dogs behaviour and look for signs they are not happy and know how to react if a dog is showing signs of discomfort.”