St. Louis MO Dog Attack Attorneys
Preventing Dog Attacks
Many dog attacks happen suddenly and are unprovoked and unpreventable. There are, however, some steps you can take to lessen your chances of being involved in a serious Missouri dog attack. If you or a loved one is injured by a vicious dog, please do not hesitate to speak to an attorney regarding your legal rights and options.
Dog Bite Prevention
There are ways to minimize the chances of a serious dog attack. Here are a few steps you can take:
- Never approach a dog that is not with an owner. Dogs that are loose and unwatched are unpredictable. There is a good chance the dog is lost, worried or feels threatened. Keep your distance from stray dogs.
- Ask permission from a dog owner before approaching a dog on a leash. Owners of dogs that have temperamental issues should know that their dog is potentially dangerous. Before petting a dog, make sure the owner is aware of your intent and that consent is given.
- Avoid approaching injured dogs. Contacting the dog’s owner or the authorities should be done without approaching an injured animal. Dogs that are in pain have a greater chance of lashing out and attacking.
- Avoid dogs that are eating or sleeping. Dogs do not like to be surprised and they may attack if they feel like you may take their food or feel threatened in any way. Dogs chewing on bones should also be given adequate space. They may be protective of their treat.
- Be careful not to taunt an animal. Dogs should not be pinched, pulled or poked under any circumstances. Their instinctive reaction to such acts may be to bite.
There are actions the government can take to help prevent dangerous attacks as well. Local governments need to crack down on dog fighting, which is illegal, and excessive breeding. Parents can help prevent child dog bite attacks by teaching kids to stay away from dogs they don’t know and to ask for help before approaching a dog.
Dog Bite Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about 1,008 people require medical attention from a dog attack every day in the United States. Children are at the greatest risk of being injured by a dog. In fact, dog bites are considered the fifth most frequent cause of emergency room visits in the United States. The CDC also reports that you have a one in 50 chance of being bitten by a dog each year. Also, in 2008, 23 people were fatally injured in dog attacks.
The St Louis dog attack lawyers at Page Law offer free consultations to anyone injured by a dangerous animal. A dog does not have to have a history of violent behavior for the owner to be held liable for the damages. If a dog in Missouri has bitten you or a loved one, call our law offices right away to discuss your potential claim.
