Dog Bites

Man’s best friend can inflict pain and suffering if the circumstances are right. When cornered, threatened, or wounded, dogs are more likely to bite. Knowing basic prevention tips can help prevent this sort of injury. Currently, estimates of dog bite frequency are around 800,000 per year. About half of bite victims are children. Of the yearly total, 386,000 required treatment in an emergency room and about a dozen die from their injuries.

The Center for Disease Control, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and the United States Postal Service believe public education is the best way to prevent dog bite injuries. Before getting a dog, it is recommended to consult a professional about various dog breeds. Breeds known to be aggressive are inappropriate for families with children. Spaying and neutering pets is advised, as well as not playing aggressive games like wrestling. Proper socialization and training is also highly recommended.

When around unfamiliar dogs, basic safety tips can help prevent dog attacks. First of all, not approaching strange dogs is the best advice. Running from a dog or screaming while around a canine are not recommended. Avoiding direct eye contact, leaving dogs alone that are sleeping, eating, or nursing, and not petting a dog until it sniffs you first are all good ideas when encountering an unfamiliar animal. If bitten, the attack should be immediately reported and the wound should be washed out.

If you have been bitten by a dog, experienced legal counsel can help protect your rights. The Racine personal injury attorneys at Habush Habush & Rottier can help today at 800.682.3434.