Hawaii

Are Dogs A Real Danger?

A National Canine Research Council Perspective Report

Over the past 43 years (1965 - present) there have been three (3) fatal dog attacks in Hawaii, or approximately one (1) fatality every 14 years.

At least two (2) breeds of dogs have been identified as participating in a fatal attack in Hawaii.

All three victims were children.

Two of the three cases involved dogs that were maintained on chains.

All three dogs involved in fatal attacks in Hawaii were intact males.

In spite of the reckless ownership practices of some owners, dogs still pose an incredibly low risk for causing a fatality:

Fatal Dog Attacks in Hawaii as Compared to Other Selected Risks:

Snapshot of Hawaii: 2005

Persons killed by dogs:       0

Child abuse deaths:       2

Persons drowned in tub or swimming pool:       3

ATV-related fatalities:       4

Bicycle-related fatalities:       5

Alcohol-related traffic fatalities:      72

All traffic fatalities (alcohol & non):     140

Tobacco-related deaths: 1,200

So, are dogs a danger? In fact, people in Hawaii routinely accept far greater risks from ATVs, bicycles and swimming pools than any that are associated with companion animals.

Persons killed by dogs:	0
Child abuse deaths:	2
Persons drowned in tub or swimming pool:	3
ATV-related fatalities:	4
Bicycle-related fatalities:	5
Alcohol-related traffic fatalities:	72
All traffic fatalities (alcohol & non):	140
Tobacco-related deaths:	1,200