Fountain Valley Dog Bite Attorneys
Fountain Valley weather is ideal for outdoor activities and those with dogs can enjoy dog beaches and dog parks within close proximity. It is very common in the spring and summer months to see dozens of Fountain Valley pet owners and their furry friends enjoying a day out. This brings the potential for a dog attack if the dog is not on a leash and becomes aggressive possessive.
Our Fountain Valley dog bite lawyers have represented thousands of Orange County residents. If you are the victim of a dog bite or a vicious dog attack, contact our law firm to find out about your rights. Victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensation. A trusted injury lawyer with years of experience dealing with dog bite cases is the type of attorney you want representing you. Call today for a FREE consultation.
Dogs can become aggreessive towards other dogs and towards humans if they believe they or their owner is in danger, therefore it is important to know your dog's social behavior before taking it to a dog park or beach. Because many dog owners will remove the leash from their pet upon entering a park or beach, it is a good idea to be aware of other dogs that are around.
If you were the victim of a dog bite, please call our Fountain Valley personal injury lawyers 949-203-3814 for legal representation.
Types of Dog Breeds
If you are looking to buy or adopt a dog, conduct your own research about what breeds will be best for your household.
Some animals require large yards to run around and may act up when they don't get the exercise that they need everyday. Other breeds, such as pit bulls and rottweilers, are involved in a high percentage of fatal attacks. If you have a child, adopting or buying a pit bull or a pit bull mix may not be in your best interest.
If you are looking into adopting a dog from a shelter, inquire about the dog's history. If there is any chance that the dog has a history of violence, it may be best to choose another pet. Be sure to spend time with the dog before the adoption process and make sure that your children are comfortable around the new pet.
Many victims suffer significant injuries in dog mauling incidents such as deep puncture wounds, scarring, disfigurement, fractures and nerve damage so it is important to know if the dog you plan to adopt has a history of violence. Many of these injuries require cosmetic surgery to repair the scars and some of the scars may become permanent. Many victims also suffer emotional and psychological trauma as the result of a dog attack.
What Are a Dog Owner Responsibilities?
It is crucial that you neuter your pet. A high percentage of dogs involved in serious attacks are not neutered.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately one in five dog bite victims require medical attention. That means that about 885,000 people suffer dog bite injuries significant enough to require a trip to the hospital every year.
It is also important to teach your dog submissive behavior. Never play aggressive games such as:
- Biting games
- Wrestling
- Tug of war
- Seek out professional advice from dog trainers and veterinarians
Also never leave a young child alone with your pet. Even if you have a small dog that is well trained, constant supervision is imperative when it comes to dogs and children.
What Are Some Tips to Protect Children from Dog Attacks?
It is important that all children know to never approach a dog that they do not know. Even if the child is familiar with the animal, it is not safe to approach the animal if it is feeding, eating or sleeping. Dogs are territorial and protective. They are likely to lash out if they are threatened or startled. There are several safety measures that can help prevent dog attacks. Here are a few.
- Never run from a dog you are unfamiliar with. It is in their nature to give chase.
- Never scream at an unknown dog either. It may startle or frighten them.
- Stay motionless if an unknown dog approaches you.
- Report any animals that are behaving oddly or that are wandering without a leash or collar.
- Allow the dog to sniff your hand before attempting to pet it.
- Only pet a dog after speaking with the dog's owner.
- Roll into a ball and remain still if a dog knocks you over.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Injury
There are a number of steps that should be taken following a dog bite incident:
- First, the authorities should be notified.
- Second, you should attempt to collect as much information as possible. Get the name and contact information of the dog owner and of anyone who witnessed the incident.
- You should also seek out medical attention right away.
In addition it may be in your best interest to speak with an experienced Fountain Valley dog bite lawyer, such as the lawyers at Bisnar Chase, who will help protect your legal rights and best interests.
Under California's strict liability statute, dog owners can be held liable for the damages their pets cause. Victims of dog bite incidents can hold the dog owner accountable for their medical bills, lost income, surgeries, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Fountain Valley dog attack, please contact us to find out how we can help.
