Dog bites are one of the most traumatic types of personal injuries in the United States. They not only can permanently scar an individual (or child), but they can leave long-term psychological damage, too. According to the CDC, it is estimated that over 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs.
Whether you own a dog or will be around man’s best friend, there are a few facts you need to know.
5 Facts for Owners
As the owner of a dog, you are liable for any injuries or deaths your animal causes. Even having a “beware of dog” sign may not be enough to protect you from liability. Some things you can do to lessen the likelihood your pooch will cause an injury include:
- Adopt a breed of dog that is gentle and doesn’t have any history of aggressive behavior, especially around children. If you are adopting an older dog, check into its background and make sure there is no history of abuse.
- Neuter or spay your dog. Research proves that this decreases their aggressiveness.
- Train your dog and interact with them. If you have a dog only to lock it in the backyard, consider giving your pet up for adoption. Dogs need frequent training and obedience lessons and this information can quickly be forgotten if your pet isn’t around people very often.
- Make your dog social. Take your dog and make sure they are around other pets, kids, dogs and adults alike.
- Don’t teach your dog to be aggressive in any way, even with playful wrestling.
5 Facts for Those around Dogs
You may not own or control the dog, but there are things you can do to prevent a possible attack on yourself or your children.
- Never approach a dog you do not know and do not enter someone’s property with a dog that you do not know.
- If a dog you do not know approaches, stay still and remain calm. Let the dog sniff and get to know you, but do not run or try to bat the dog away.
- Never run from a dog, especially one that is acting aggressive. Instead, back away slowly. Running will only encourage the dog to chase you.
- Never take food or a toy away from a dog.
Injured by a Dog? Contact an Injury Attorney
Dog bites are serious and have life-long injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured because of a dog bite, click here to contact the personal injury attorneys at Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. We offer free consultations and we will make sure you receive the compensation you deserve for your traumatic injury.
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