Dogs have long been called man's best friend, and many North Carolina families enjoy having pets. Still, it is essential to remember that any dog has the potential to bite and cause injuries, even if it is playfully or protectively. Every year, 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs, and more than 800,000 people have to receive medical treatment for dog bites. Since 2020, nearly every state has seen an increase in serious dog bites that require medical attention. There are several steps you can take to prevent dog bite injuries,
Every Dog Can BiteMany people are surprised when their dogs have never caused an injury or bitten another person before an attack. However, it is essential to understand that any dog has the potential to bite, especially if it is injured, scared, startled, or sick. Dog bites occur when dogs feel they need to protect something valuable to them, like a toy, food, or their puppies, or they are scared.
Reading a dog's body language and giving it space if it seems stressed can help you avoid a dog bite. Children should learn to avoid petting dogs when they are eating or sleeping. Unfortunately, even the most thoughtful person paying attention to a dog's body language can still be injured in a dog attack.
Supervise Young Children Around DogsChildren are the most at risk of suffering severe injuries from dog bites. Parents should never leave their children alone with a dog, even if it is a friendly family dog. Nearly half of dog bite hospitalizations are for children aged five and younger. Sometimes, a bite happens when a dog is alone with a child, even for a few minutes. Dog bites happen quickly, so it is important to supervise children around every dog every time to prevent a bite.
Prevent Dog FightsHumans can become injured when dogs fight with each other. Dogs might start fighting for many reasons, and one or more owners may try to break up the fight by grabbing their dog. Dogs may not recognize that their owners are trying to catch them, so they lash out and invite the dog.
Some dog trainers have stated that there is no safe way to break up a dog fight and that the best way to prevent dog fights is to read the dog's body language. Separate dogs before they begin fighting. When dog owners know their dog is at risk of fighting or is aggressive toward other dogs, they need to use protective measures and ensure their dogs are always on a leash and cannot get away from their leash.
Use Caution When Approaching Unfamiliar DogsIf you see an unfamiliar dog, you should always approach it cautiously. Stray, your unfamiliar dogs can bite when people try to help them. Before you pet another person's dog, you should always ask them. If you see a stray dog, contact animal control services. Do not try to pick up the dog and put it in your car; you could end up being bitten by a dog that has rabies and is severely attacked. If you have been by a stray dog, contact animal control services as soon as possible to determine whether the dog has been vaccinated for rabies.
Seek Medical Attention After a BiteIf a dog has injured you, it is imperative to seek medical attention at your local urgent care as soon as possible. Even if the bite seems minor, the risk of infection is high when your skin is punctured. In many cases, puncture wounds from a dog are deeper than they appear. A doctor's expertise is crucial in caring for the wound and preventing infection. The seriousness of this issue cannot be overstated, and your prompt action can make a significant difference in your recovery.
Contact an Attorney if You Have Experienced Dog Bite Injuries in North CarolinaIf you or your loved one have been injured in a dog bite incident, it is important to understand your legal rights and options. Dog bites can cause expensive, painful injuries, especially when children are attacked. You could be facing thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars of medical expenses.
An attorney can help you understand the best way to pursue compensation for your injuries, whether through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit. Do not hesitate to contact the experienced attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation case evaluation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys know how to hold negligent pet owners accountable when their dogs cause injuries.