A dog bite is a bite upon a person or other animal by a dog, including from a rabid dog. More than one successive bite is often called a dog attack. Dogs may become dangerous if they feel threatened or afraid. Almost half of all dog bites are provoked, regardless of whether the victim is a child or an adult.
If your dog bites someone, try to confine your dog in a safe place and check on the bite victim's condition. Make sure that the wounds are washed with soap and water. Provide your name and phone number for the victim. A healthy dog, cat, or ferret that bites a person should be confined and observed daily for 10 days.
If the bite is not bleeding severely, wash the wound thoroughly with mild soap and running water for 3 to 5 minutes. Then cover the bite with antibiotic. Antibiotics may be prescribed for wounds that have penetrated the skin depending on the location of the wound and the duration between bite time and treatment.
Victims of severe dog attacks often suffer acute damage, which may require $300,000 to one million dollars in specialized medical care. In 2018, 78% of dog bite fatality victims were female, the highest ever recorded.
To avoid a dog bite, never leave a child unattended with any animal, do not run from a dog, do not scream or make frantic gestures, and do not pet a strange dog. Understanding dog body language is a key way to help avoid being bitten.
Dog owners are statutorily liable for any and all damages inflicted by their dog to any person, other than a trespasser, without proof of scienter or knowledge. A dog-bite statute is a legal provision that establishes strict liability against the owner of a dog that injures another individual. You should contact a dog bite lawyer if you have been bitten.
If bitten by a dog, if the dog's owner is present, request proof of rabies vaccination, and get the owner's name and contact information. Clean the wound with mild soap and water. After an animal bite, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. They may give you antibiotics to prevent an infection.
