Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Dog bites can cause deep wounds, infections, nerve damage and permanent scarring — and the emotional impact, especially on children, can last for years. Owners are responsible for controlling their animals and preventing foreseeable harm.

Our attorneys represent dog bite and animal attack victims in claims that are often paid through homeowners or renters insurance. We document both the physical and emotional effects of the attack, including the cost of future scar revision.

Case Types We Handle

Our Dog Bites and Animal Attacks practice includes 12 case types. Select one to learn more.

• Dog Bite InjuriesDog bite injuries range from puncture wounds to severe tissue damage and are often covered by the owner's homeowners or renters insurance.
• Severe Dog AttacksSevere dog attacks can cause major tissue loss, nerve damage and permanent disfigurement requiring reconstructive surgery.
• Child Dog Bite InjuriesChild dog bite injuries frequently affect the face and head and can cause lasting physical and emotional harm.
• Facial Injuries from Dog BitesFacial dog bite injuries often require plastic surgery and may leave permanent scarring.
• Dog Bite ScarringDog bite scarring claims account for the long-term physical and emotional effects of visible scars and the cost of revision procedures.
• Dog Bite InfectionsDog bite infections can cause serious complications requiring hospitalization and extended treatment.
• Dog Attacks on Postal and Delivery WorkersDog attacks on postal and delivery workers may support both a workers' compensation claim and a claim against the owner.
• Dog Attacks in Public AreasDog attacks in public areas often involve leash law violations and owners who failed to control their animals.
• Dog Attacks on Private PropertyDog attacks on private property raise questions about the visitor's status and the owner's knowledge and precautions.
• Other Domestic Animal AttacksOther domestic animal attacks involve cats, livestock and other animals whose owners failed to control them.
• Horse-Related InjuriesHorse-related injuries occur during riding, handling and stable activities, and some states have equine activity statutes.
• Fatal Animal AttacksFatal animal attacks may give rise to wrongful death claims against the animal's owner or keeper.

Common Causes of Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

• Dogs allowed to roam off leash
• Owners ignoring prior aggressive behavior
• Inadequate fencing or restraints
• Leash law violations
• Landlords tolerating known dangerous animals
• Unsafe horse handling and stables

Injuries and Losses We See

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Facial injuries and scarring
• Infections
• Nerve and tendon damage
• Emotional trauma and fear of animals

Strict Liability and the "One-Bite" Rule

States take different approaches. Many make owners strictly liable for dog bites regardless of prior behavior, while others require proof that the owner knew the dog was dangerous or was negligent. Local leash and animal control laws can also be important. Homeowners and renters policies commonly cover these claims.

How We Investigate Dog Bites and Animal Attacks Claims

Strong cases are built on evidence gathered early. Depending on the facts, we work to obtain:

• Animal control and incident reports
• Prior bite or complaint history
• Photographs of injuries
• Medical and plastic surgery records
• Witness statements

Who May Be Responsible

More than one party may share responsibility, which can increase the insurance coverage available. Potentially liable parties include:

• Dog and animal owners
• Landlords who knew of a dangerous animal
• Property owners and keepers of the animal
• Homeowners and renters insurers

What to Do After an Incident

1. Get medical care and report the incident to the owner or manager
2. Photograph the hazard, lighting and surroundings
3. Collect names of witnesses and employees present
4. Keep your shoes, clothing and any damaged items
5. Ask that video footage be preserved
6. Speak with an attorney before giving statements

Compensation You May Be Able to Recover

Depending on the facts and the law that applies, a claim may include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain, suffering and emotional distress
• Rehabilitation, long-term care and home modification costs
• Property damage and other out-of-pocket losses

Why Acting Early Matters

Every state sets deadlines for filing injury claims, and claims involving government entities can require formal notice within a much shorter time. Video footage, records and physical evidence can be lost quickly. Speaking with an attorney early protects your options.

How Our Attorneys Can Help

We investigate what happened, deal with the insurance companies, document the full extent of your losses and pursue a fair settlement — and we are prepared to go to court when an insurer will not be reasonable. Personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis: you pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you. Consultations are free and confidential.