Dog Bite Injury Prevention Tips

Canines can bite. Most family dogs do not make biting a habit; otherwise, the popularity of dogs as family pets would decrease greatly. Yet, just as with a human being, animals also have bad days. Unfortunately, unlike their human counterparts, dogs must rely on physical cues rather than verbal articulation to express their displeasure. When they reach a breaking point, they can lose control and bite even those they love. Knowing and recognizing typical dog behavior warning signs may prevent the occurrence of a dog bite injury.

In California, a dog owner is responsible for any bites rendered by their dog. Therefore, as a dog owner, it is important to understand canine body language to prevent injury by your companion to yourself or someone else. 

Even if you are not a dog owner, you likely encounter dogs in your everyday life. Knowing the warning behaviors you should watch out for when you interact with dogs can help you judge the situation and know how best to protect yourself and anyone in the vicinity. Some of the most common warning signs expressed by a dog include:

• Direct eye contact
• Tail lifted up, even if it is wagging
• Wide stance
• Chest pushed forward
• Ears up or forward toward you
• Growling
• Bared Teeth

Unfortunately, children have an increased risk of being the victim of a dog bite attack. Anyone who has spent any significant amount of time around children knows that they do not always understand boundaries. Therefore, they may approach and attempt to touch an unfamiliar dog, regardless of warning signals. Even a family pet may have a bad day and uncharacteristically bite a family member or visitor to the home. Children have a lower stature, and their face and neck are typically within striking distance of a dog’s mouth, making even one quick bite potentially life-altering. A great rule to follow is never to leave a child unattended with a dog, regardless of familiarity.

Have you been the victim of a dog bite attack? Regardless of whether you feel the bite was provoked, it is important to contact an experienced attorney immediately. At Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard, LLP, we protect the rights of our clients and aggressively fight to earn them the compensation they deserve. Our Monterey County personal injury attorneys can examine your case and advise you of your best course of action. Call (408) 289-1417 today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today to get started.