- The average dog bite costs insurance claims paid for dog bites was $24,840 in 2008-2009 compared with $19,162 in 2003 which represents a 29.6% increase;
- The average cost of hospitalization for a dog bite victim in 2008 was $18,500;
- For emergency room care rendered to dog bite victims, Medicare and Medicaid was the source for 27% of the dog bite costs; more was paid through private insurence companies (45%).