MORE people were admitted to hospital as a result of a dog bite or strike in Dorset than almost anywhere else in the country last year.

Figures released by the NHS show that a person was admitted to hospital in the Dorset CCG area almost once every three days during the 2015/16 financial year.

This means that 107 people were admitted to one of Dorset's hospitals during that year, the seventh highest figure in the country out of 208 CCGs.

There were 7,673 admissions to hospital nationally during the time period as a result of a dog strike or bite.

Oxfordshire had by far the most at 269 with Dorset just one of seven CCGs with more than 100 admissions.

The UK's largest dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust, has spoken of its concern about the issue.

A spokesman said: "Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, is deeply concerned by the number of dog bites and strikes recorded throughout the country.

"Dogs Trust remains frustrated that legislation focusing on issues around dangerous dogs and dog attacks remains ineffective at preventing these incidents happening in the first place.

"Dogs Trust is focused on preventive measures that keep children and adults safe around dogs.

"The charity has an ongoing Be Dog Smart, an education campaign that offers dog safety workshops. It is the responsibility of dog owners to ensure their dogs are properly trained and socialised and Dogs Trust advises that young children should never be left alone with a dog."

Dorset CCG has urged people has urged people to be aware of which service to use to suit the individual need of each bite.

It said that if it is serious, use the accident and emergency department, if it is just a scratch it could be self-treated and to use 111 if you aren't sure.

NHS information recommends always seeking medical advice if you have been bitten by an animal or person and the bite has broken the skin.

Bites can get infected if they're not checked and treated quickly.

While these infections are rarely serious, it is important to get bites looked as to check for the likes of tetanus and rabies.

The NHS also has advice on how to reduce the chances of being bitten by a dog as these are the most common type.

People are urged never to leave a young child unsupervised with a dog, to treat dogs with respect, to avoid stroking or petting unfamiliar canines and to avoid contact with wild or stray animals.