What to Do After a Dog Attack

Many people believe all dogs are friendly. After all, they are “man’s best friend.” But this is not always the case. Some dog breeds, such as pit bulls, are more likely to attack people than other breeds.

The truth is that any dog can bite. They may bite if they are startled or threatened. Some attack people if they are teased by them. Other dogs may bite if they are sick or bothered while eating.

This means you may become a victim of a dog attack at any time. When this happens, you want to be prepared. Time is of the essence, and the quicker you can get medical treatment, the better. Here’s a look at what you need to do.

Seek Immediate Safety

Move to a secure location, away from the dog, to prevent further attacks. Try to put a barrier between you and the dog. Avoid making sudden movements or running, as this could provoke further aggression.

Assess Injuries

Check for wounds. Dog bites can range from minor scratches to deep puncture wounds. Assess whether there is excessive bleeding, torn skin, or broken bones. If the victim is unconscious or in shock, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Clean the Wound

If the bite is minor and not actively bleeding, wash it thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least five minutes to remove bacteria. Apply an antiseptic, such as hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, and cover it with a sterile bandage.

Seek Medical Attention

Even small bites can lead to infections like tetanus or rabies. Seek medical help if:

• The wound is deep, bleeding excessively, or showing signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).
• You have not had a tetanus shot in the last five years.
• The wound is near a joint, face, or hands, as these areas are prone to complications.

Report the Attack

Contact your local animal control, police department, or health department to report the incident. Authorities will investigate, determine if the dog is a threat, and check its vaccination history. This is also essential for public safety and may help prevent future attacks.

Identify the Dog and Owner

If possible, get the owner’s name, address, and phone number. Ask if the dog is up to date on vaccinations, especially rabies. If it’s a stray, note its physical description and where the attack happened so authorities can locate it. If there were witnesses, gather their contact information.

Take Photos and Document Everything

Document the scene by taking photos of your injuries, torn clothing, and the dog. Keep a written account of what happened, including the time, date, location, and circumstances. This can be useful for medical treatment or legal claims.

Consider Legal Action

If the dog’s owner was negligent, you may have legal grounds to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or emotional distress. Consult a personal injury attorney to explore your options.

Contact Us Today

Dogs have strong jaws and their bites can lead to deep wounds. This can result in scarring and disfigurement.

Injured in a dog attack? A Mt. Juliet dog bite lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC can help. We have extensive experience assisting victims to hold negligent pet owners accountable. To schedule a consultation, give us a call at (615) 622-6060 or fill out the online form.

Source:

dogsbite.org/dog-bite-victim-guide.php#:~:text=Immediately%20identify%20the%20owner%20of%20the%20dog,to%20undergo%20a%20series%20of%20rabies%20shots