A dog bite can be painful, traumatic and in some cases, life-threatening. Whether the bite is minor or severe, it is important to take the right steps immediately following the incident. Acting quickly can protect both your physical health and your ability to recover damages later if the bite was caused by negligence.
Some dog bite injuries require hospitalization, stitches or even surgery. Others may lead to infection or long-term scarring. In all cases, it is essential to take the situation seriously and follow appropriate procedures to document the incident and protect your interests.
1. Get medical care right away
After a bite, your first priority should be seeking medical attention. Even if the wound appears minor, bacteria from a dog’s mouth can cause serious infections. A health professional can clean the wound, determine whether a tetanus shot is needed and help document the injury for any future claim.
2. Report the incident to local authorities
Notify animal control or the appropriate local agency about the dog bite. Reporting the bite creates an official record and may prompt an investigation into the dog’s behavior or vaccination history. If the animal is a known risk, authorities can take steps to prevent future incidents.
3. Gather information from the scene
Try to collect as much information as possible, including the dog owner’s name and contact details, the location of the incident and names of any witnesses. If you are physically able, take photos of the injury, the dog and the scene. This information may be helpful later in establishing what happened and who is responsible.
4. Monitor your health and keep records
Keep track of all medical visits, prescriptions and any time missed from work due to the injury. Dog bites can lead to ongoing pain or complications that require follow-up care. A clear record of your recovery can support your claim if the incident was caused by negligence.
If the bite occurred due to a failure to control the dog or other unsafe conditions, legal guidance may help you explore options for compensation.