What You Should Do After A Dog Bite In Houston?

Learn More About Dog Bite Lawsuits

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) considers Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Doberman Pinschers, Chows, Great Danes, St. Bernards, Cocker Spaniels, Collies and Akitas to be the highest risk dogs. However, statistics show around 30 breeds of dogs have been involved in dog bite related fatalities. Almost any dog is capable of inflicting serious, even fatal, damage.

According to the CDC, dog bite statistics show that almost 5 million people suffer from dog bites every year. Almost 400,000 people, of which more than half are children, require medical attention for these dog bites. The statistics go on to show that more than a dozen people die each year from injuries sustained by dog bites.

How to Avoid Dog Bites

Always be cautious with strange dogs and treat all pets with respect. Do not pet a dog without permission from the dog’s owner. Children suffering from dog bites are likely to be bitten on the face and neck, requiring extensive plastic surgery and extensive medical bills.

  • Do not leave small children (especially babies) along with a dog, even the family pet.
  • Do not run past a dog as that will only provoke the dog to chase and catch you.
  • Do not disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping, or has puppies.
  • Do not try to reach through a fence to pet a dog.

Try to remain calm if a dog approaches. Usually, they will lose interest once they determine that you mean them no harm. Avoid eye contact and don’t scream or yell at the dog. Stay still or back away slowly, remember – no eye contact with the dog. If you fall to the ground, curl into a ball protecting your face.

Biting dogs are most likely to be unneutered males. Around two-thirds of dog bite incidents occur on the dog owner’s property. Unrestrained dogs off their owner’s property also account for a large percentage of dog bites.

Even though all dog breeds are capable of biting, there are some breeds whose bites can be much more dangerous than others. “Pit bull” type dogs and Rottweilers were involved in more than half of the dog bite-related fatalities in the past twenty years. Several communities have enacted breed-specific restrictions or bans focusing on Pitbull and Rottweiler breeds.

 

What You Should Do After A Dog Bite In Houston?

What You Should Do After A Dog Bite

If you or a loved one are the victim of a dog bite, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Wash all wounds with soapy water or call 911 if you require emergency assistance.

Dog bites can lead to complications and you should see your doctor to evaluate the dog bite for infection and the risk of contracting rabies. Dog bites can be very serious and can even be fatal.

If you have been injured, you may be entitled to compensation. However, time could be running out; you must act fast. Your case could be subject to the statute of limitations, so the best time to contact our experienced dog bite attorney is soon after you have been treated for the dog bite. Call us or use the convenient form on this page for your free consultation to determine if you can file a claim for medical costs, suffering, and even wrongful death.