Staying Safe Around Dogs

A dog is a beloved member of any family. Whether it is going for a jog in the park or just walking around the block, dog owners get countless hours of enjoyment by spending time with their pets. While most dogs are well-behaved, they are still animals. They can bite at any time with little to no warning.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are an estimated 4.5 million people bitten by dogs each year. One out of every five dog bites will require some type of medical attention. Children between the ages of five and nine are the most frequent victims of dog bites.

How to Prevent Dog Bites

Under Arizona law, dog owners will be held financially responsible if their dog injures another person or animal, even if it is the first time that the dog has ever attacked, unless the owner can prove that the dog was provoked. As long as the person injured has a legal right to be present at a particular location, the owner will be held responsible for the injuries. This includes the private property of the owner, as well as any public areas, such as dog parks or sidewalks.

Dog owners need to know if the dog they are thinking of bringing into their home is a good fit, especially if the home will frequently have children present. Some dogs will not know how to behave with small children. Owners should never leave their dog alone with guests or children, as any dog can turn violent at any time.

People that encounter a dog should also take steps to help prevent an attack from occurring. Never approach or try to pet a dog that you do not know. If the animal is growling at you or showing its teeth, do not run. Dogs may consider this a sign, and chase someone who is running away.

For Victims of Dog Bites

Unfortunately, even if you do everything right, dogs may still attack. Try to protect your face and throat, as these are very vulnerable areas. Injuries can require extensive surgeries, especially if the bites are severe enough to cause scarring.

If you have been bitten by a dog, Maricopa County Animal Care and Control recommends that you wash wound with soap and water. A dog’s mouth is filled with bacteria, and if wounds are not properly cleaned, serious infections may result.

If you have been injured because of an animal attack, speak to an experienced personal injury attorney in your area to understand your options. Take dog bites seriously, as a failure to receive treatment for injuries could result in additional problems in the future.