The number of seniors injuring themselves while walking dogs is skyrocketing, University of Pennsylvania researchers say.

According to a new study in the surgery edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association, bone fractures from such incidents more than doubled during a 13-year period.

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In 2004, about 1,700 people 65 or older visited emergency rooms with fractures after falling while walking a dog, the study said.

In 2017, that number was almost 4,400. Women need to be especially careful because they are at higher risk for bone disease, the study said.

Walking a dog can still be a great source of exercise, but experts say older dog owners should take special care to train their best friends or choose smaller breeds.

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Helen Gilbert places flowers on her brother Eurie Martin’s grave at Camp Spring Baptist Church in Sandersville. Her brother died eight years ago. Three former Washington County deputies are accused of causing his death and are set to stand trial Monday. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez