Media Alert

The Centre, P.C. offers the latest cosmetic laser procedures to patients in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, Michiana and the Southern Michigan area, and Chicago.

Attention: News Desk, Medical/Health Reporters May 18-24: National Dog Bite Prevention Week

May 12, 2003

WHO: 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs every year. Tragically, some 20 people will die from dog attack injuries this year. Every 40 seconds, someone in America seeks medical care because of a dog bite. Children make up 60 percent of all victims.

WHAT: Dr. Ronald Downs and Dr. Patrick Viscardi of The Centre, P.C. (www.theCentrepc.com), members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (www.plasticsurgery.org), have helped repair dog attack victims through reconstructive surgery. Dr. Downs and Dr. Viscardi can speak with you about this problem.

WHEN: May 18-24, National Dog Bite Prevention Week

WHY: Because more than 40,000 plastic surgeries are performed each year to repair the damage of animal bites – a problem that is largely preventable. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and its members reach out to the public to educate children and dog owners to ‘Beware the Bite!’

Dog Bite Prevention Tips from the ASPS

How to Avoid Dog Bites:
  • Never approach an unfamiliar dog.
  • Never run from or scream at a dog.
  • Be “still like a tree” when an unfamiliar dog comes up to you.
  • If a dog knocks you over, roll into a ball and stay still.
  • Never let children play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.
  • Don’t look a dog right in the eye.
  • Don’t disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.
  • Don’t play with a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.
If Bitten:
  • Tell an adult right away.
  • Control the bleeding and wash the bite area with soap and water.
  • Get medical help immediately to determine the best treatment and risk of rabies infection.
  • Because dog bites can cause scarring, ask the emergency room physician for a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This ensures that the doctor is uniquely qualified to perform reconstructive and cosmetic procedures on the face and all areas of the body.

Click here for more information on reconstructive surgery for dog bite victims or to schedule a consultation with one of our cosmetic surgeons. Our cosmetic surgeons help dog bite victims in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, the Michiana area, and Chicago.

  • 574.296.9100
  • 800.909.2992
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RiverPointe Medical Building
500 Arcade Ave., Suite 300
Elkhart, IN 46514

Chesterton
810 Michael Drive, Suite K
Chesterton, IN 46304
Toll Free: 800.909.2992
Phone: 219.395.9200
Fax: 219.926.3534

 

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