Dog Trips Man

AP, March 27

ATLANTA - Cats and dogs are a factor in more than 86,000 serious falls each year, according to the first government study of pet-related tumbles.

Such incidents are relatively rare, accounting for about 1 percent of injuries from falls. The majority cause minor injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

But they are a disproportionate hazard for senior citizens, CDC officials said.