08/03/09, East Hartford

The first government study of pet-related falls found that dogs, cats and even their toys factor into one percent of 86,000 reported falls. Some of the falls are serious.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pets account for one percent of falls for people 65 years of age and older. However, falls can have disastrous consequences for older individuals.

Researchers at the CDC studied emergency room reports for 66 hospitals in the U.S. from 2001 through 2006 and concluded that 3 out of every 10,000 people suffered fall-related injuries as a result of a cat or dog. Individuals 75 years of age and older were injured at a rate almost twice as high; women suffered injuries at a rate which was twice as high as men.

Ten percent of those injured broke bones or suffered internal injuries or other conditions requiring hospitalization.

CATS - As the owner of a very affectionate cat, I understand all too well how cats trip people. When I get up at night I shuffle as to not fall completely over Bootsy. Cats also cause falls when they rub against shins or "weave" through their owner's feet.

DOGS - They're the culprit of the majority of injuries. Dogs trip people, startle them or cause them to lose their balance during walks. This I also found out the hard way during an ice storm walking two beagles who once owned me...

To help the situation, reduce the number of dog toys purchased and put them away at bedtime. Older adults can also find older, smaller or already-trained dogs at the Humane Society or by asking a local vet.

Pets make wonderful companions and have proven therapeutic power. Just be sure to take extra precautions with your furry "loved one" to be sure you don't take a tumble.

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