Avoiding Dog Attacks

Safety Tips to Avoid Being Bitten by a Dog

Because dogs are the most common pet to bite and injure someone, here are a few tips to avoid an injury. Most of these tips apply to other domestic animals as well.

• Don't approach strange dogs or try to pet a dog behind a fence. Protective of their territory, they are likely to lash out when they feel that they're being threatened.
• Never touch a dog without allowing him to sniff your hand first. This allows the dog to become accustomed to you without feeling threatened. If a dog approaches you to sniff your hand, remain still.
• Don't try to pet the dog while he is eating, sleeping, chewing a toy or caring for her puppies.
• If the dog is with its owner, ask to approach the dog first. It's not safe to assume that all dogs like to be greeted-either by a person or another dog.
• Don't run from or past a dog. Dogs love to chase!
• Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog, even if you know the dog. Many serious injuries and deaths occur when dogs are left alone with small children and infants.

If you're threatened by a dog...

• Remain calm and motionless. Do not scream and run. Talk firmly yet calmly to the dog. If you choose to move away, back away slowly and avoid eye contact.
• If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball and protect your face.

Steps You Can Take When You've Suffered a Bite

When you've been bitten by a domestic animal like a dog or cat, it's hard not to let emotions take control. Fear, panic, anxiety and physical pain can distract you from taking the important steps necessary after your bite.

1. Identify the animal that bit you and note, or have a witness note if you cannot, anything specific about the animal.
2. Get medical help.
3. Report the incident to your local animal control center and/or police department. Keep track of the date you filed the report and with whom you spoke.
4. Call Castle Law Office to begin the process of getting compensation for the injuries and losses suffered.

It is also extremely important to take photos of your injuries and the accident location. Without putting yourself in additional danger, take pictures of the animal that bit you. Castle Law Office may take additional photos to properly document the case.

Steps for Dog Owners to Minimize Attacks

As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to do anything in your control to prevent your dog from harming others. There are steps you can take to minimize the possibility of your dog attacking someone:

• Spay or neuter your dog.
• Do not teach your dog to play roughly.
• Be sure your dog has up-to-date vaccinations.
• Take your dog to obedience classes so it becomes accustomed to obeying voice commands.
• Never leave babies or small children with a dog unless there is an adult with them.
• Keep your dog in a fenced yard; do not allow it to roam.

Contact an Animal Bite Lawyer with Our Firm

At Castle Law Office, an experienced personal injury attorney will assist you or your loved one in your case. Call 1-800-WIN-WIN-1 for your free personal injury consultation today. Remember, your initial consultation is free, and you don't pay us unless you win.