DOG BITE FAQS

Yes. In certain residential complexes, or even in cities and counties, restrictions may be put on certain dog breeds that require a potential owner to get a special license. Common breed restrictions include pit bulls, Rottweilers, Chow Chows, German shepherds, Doberman pinschers, and Akitas. The reason why such breeds are often restricted is because they tend to be aggressive or are commonly trained to be vicious guard dogs.

The American Humane Society states that it is not possible to determine whether or not a dog is vicious simply by its breed. Humans have taken certain dog breeds and built a stereotype for them by training them to be vicious guard dogs, attack dogs, or fighting dogs. People then associate the breed with viciousness and danger, even though these breeds can be just as sweet and loving as they can be vicious. Behavioral development and personality depends on the animal's heredity, early training, socialization, and care.

The best way for a pet owner to keep their dog from biting anyone is to train them from an early age and to keep them restrained. If people cannot come near your dog, your dog will have no opportunity to cause injury. Socialization is also helpful in making dogs comfortable around people and other animals, and neutering male dogs can lower their aggression level.

If you are bit by a dog because of a negligent pet owner, you could receive compensation for your injuries and medical bills, emotional trauma, and any other physical damages you may have suffered. If your injury is severe enough, you might even have to miss work and can therefore receive compensation for lost wages.

If you are asked to perform your work on someone else's property, it is generally their responsibility to warn you of their pets and to keep you safe from harm. If they do not property restrain their pet and you are attacked, then you deserve compensation. You may even be eligible for workers' compensation since you were on the job at the time of the attack and injury.

This is a tricky situation. If you were attacked by a police dog as a direct result of the handler's negligence, you may be able to file a claim. If the officer had reason to believe that his or her actions were justified, you may not be able to obtain compensation. Your best course of action at this time would be to consult a personal injury lawyer to discuss your case.

Yes. Pet owners are held responsible under the law for keeping their pets restrained and for preventing injury. If they knowingly keep a vicious dog that poses a threat to other people and their property, the owner could be criminally tried and sentenced. Past sentences have ranged from severe fines to significant jail time.

Yes. Your pets are your property; therefore, if another person's negligence with their dog results in the loss of your pet, that negligent owner is responsible for your loss and damages. Our firm can help you establish negligence and fight for the compensation you deserve.