Top 10 Wild Animals That Attack Pets
Pet Insurance Claim Stats Reveal Facts on Animal Attacks
Whether your pet is lost or home safe with you, he or she could be at risk of attack — from land, sea, and even air! Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), one of the oldest and largest providers of pet health insurance in the United States, recently reviewed more than 500 laceration/bite wound claims to determine which wild animals most frequently attacked and injured companion animals in 2008.
In addition to the usual suspects — snakes, coyotes and raccoons — VPI received claims for pet injuries caused by a squirrel, scorpion, javelina (a feral pig-like omnivore), porcupine, ground hog, skunk, rat, goat, beaver, woodchuck, black bear, cougar, hawk, rabbit, sea urchin, and jellyfish.
Top 10 Animals That Attack Pets
1. Snake
2. Coyote
3. Raccoon
4. Squirrel
5. Scorpion
6. Javelina
7. Porcupine
8. Ground Hog
9. Skunk
10. Rat
Wild animal attacks typically result in pet insurance claims for treatment of lacerations, bite wounds, punctures and soft tissue trauma. Snakebites may require anti-venom and scorpion stings may cause allergic reactions requiring antihistamines. Treatment protocols vary depending on the severity of the attack and costs can range from hundreds of dollars for bandages or stitches to thousands of dollars for surgery for damaged organs or broken limbs.
"Whether in urban or rural areas, pet owners should be aware of the danger posed by wild animals," said Dr. Carol McConnell, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. "Our company’s data reveals that not all members of the animal kingdom observe backyard fences, or appreciate the curiosity of a pet that may enter their territory. Always make sure that a pet's rabies vaccine is up to date and if you know that potentially dangerous wild animals are present, or you're in an unfamiliar area, take extra care to keep your pet close and secure."
