Dog Bite Prevention

by Clearwater Personal Injury Lawyers Tragos & Sartes

Man’s best friend is an animal capable of inflicting pain through bites and attacks. Although most dogs are friendly beasts, it is advisable to know basic dog bite prevention and what to do if an attack should occur. The best advice is not approach strange dogs, especially one that is tied or confined to a small, familiar territory. Let any dog, even your own, sniff and smell you first before trying to pet the animal. Do not turn your back and run away from an aggressive dog, as that will trigger the animal’s natural instinct to chase you. Do not disturb a sleeping dog or one that is caring for puppies.

If you have followed these steps and still think a dog may attack, remain motionless and avoid eye contact with the canine. The goal in a tense situation is to get the dog to lose interest. If the dog still attacks and you are knocked to the ground, the best defense is to lie motionless, curl into a ball, and cover your ears. Again, avoiding screaming or excessive motion can speed the process in which the dog loses interest.

After an attack, you should immediately wash the wounds with soap and warm water. You should contact your doctor for proper care and report the incident to animal control. Children compose about 60% of dog bite victims so it is important that an adult see to their proper care after a dog bite.

If you or anyone you know has suffered from a dog bite, you may have legal options to recover your medical costs and pain and suffering. Contact the experienced personal injury lawyers at Tragos and Sartes at 727.441.9030.