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A new review has revealed that hand and wrist injuries among dog walkers are costing the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) more than £23 million each year, with women and people over 65 facing the highest risk. The findings, published in the journal Injury Prevention, highlight a growing public health concern as dog ownership and walking for fitness continue to rise across the country.
Key Findings from the Review
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The review analyzed five studies published between 2012 and 2024, covering 491,373 patients. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of those injured were women, and almost a third (31%) were over the age of 65.
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Of all injuries sustained while dog walking, 22.5% (110,722 cases) were specific fractures or soft tissue injuries to the hand and wrist. The most common injuries included finger fractures (31%), wrist fractures (25%), finger soft tissue injuries (24%), and wrist soft tissue injuries (17%).
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The most frequent cause of injury was being pulled by a leash, accounting for more than two-thirds (68.5%) of incidents. Other causes included tripping over the leash or dog (20%) and getting tangled in the leash (12%).
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The estimated annual cost of treating dog walking-related wrist fractures alone could exceed £23 million, not accounting for broader economic impacts such as lost productivity or increased care needs.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Women and older adults are disproportionately affected by these injuries. Researchers suggest this may be due to factors such as osteoporosis, balance and gait issues, and impaired eyesight, which are more common in older populations—particularly older women.
Recommendations for Prevention
The study’s authors recommend several strategies to help reduce the risk of injury:
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Teaching safer leash-holding practices, such as holding the leash in the palm rather than wrapping it around fingers or wrists.
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Avoiding retractable leashes, which can create sudden increases in force.
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Promoting dog obedience training to minimize unpredictable pulling or sudden movements.
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Implementing public safety guidance and policies to educate dog owners about optimal walking practices.
Wider Implications
While the review did not find dog walking to be riskier than other activities for hand and wrist injuries, the sheer number of incidents attributable to dog ownership—particularly among the elderly and women—underscores the need for preventive action. The authors also note that the true economic burden is likely higher than their estimates, as their analysis did not include indirect costs such as time off work or long-term care needs.
“This review highlights a significant number of dog walking-related hand and wrist injuries, particularly in the elderly and female population,” the authors wrote. “Preventative measures, including safer leash practices and public safety guidance, should be implemented to reduce injury risk.”
Disclaimer:
This article is based on a review of existing research and is intended for informational purposes only. The findings discussed reflect the data and limitations of the included studies, most of which were conducted in the USA and may not fully represent UK-specific trends. Readers should consult healthcare professionals or relevant authorities for personalized advice on injury prevention and dog walking safety.
