What Should You Do If A Dog Attacks?
Brian O Sutter
Personal Injury
The dog may be man’s best friend, but that doesn’t mean that all dogs are friendly and just want to be petted by you, or your child. Some dogs, through abuse, negligence, or deliberate training, have been conditioned to be aggressive and attack people. If this happens to you or a family member, such as a child, what should you do?If The Dog Shows Aggression
If you haven’t been attacked yet, but the dog is showing clear signs of aggression, such as growling, you may still be able to avoid an attack at this point. Do not maintain eye contact, as that is seen as provocative. Try standing to your side, to reduce your profile, but if you feel calm enough, stand your ground. In many situations, this calm reaction will de-escalate the situation.
If An Attack Occurs
Sometimes, this attempt to de-escalate won’t work. Other times, there will be no warning of an attack at all. Joggers, for example, can be targeted by dogs because the fleeing movement is interpreted as a prey-action, and the dog automatically attacks to hunt down that prey.
If an attack is already in progress, you can cut it short by letting something go. If you have on a track jacket on, for example, let the dog bite the sleeve and then slip out of the jacket. The dog will usually fixate on what’s in its mouth, not you, so you attempt to flee. Even a shoe will work if you can get it off and get the dog to focus on it.
If you have nothing to distract the dog with, try to protect your face and throat. Damage to your eyes or your neck can be severe. Keep your hands in a fist to protect your fingers from bites. As counter-intuitive as it may seem, once a dog has a hold on you, do not attempt to break away. The teeth once dug in, will tear at skin.
After The Attack
Once the attack subsides, if you are able, get the wound seen to. If you can’t get looked at by a doctor right away, attempt these steps at home or any place with a first aid kit:
• Wash the wound
• Stop bleeding with a clean cloth
• Apply an off-the-shelf antibiotic cream
• Wrap the wound
Once immediate first aid has been rendered, you should see a doctor for a proper medical examination. The injury will be more closely examined and, depending on the severity. Further treatment may be required, as well as a stronger antibiotic prescription, and even a tetanus booster shot if it’s been several years since your last immunization. The medical-grade antibiotics and vaccination are often a proper precaution because 50% of dog bites transmit bacteria.
The Aftermath
When you are out of immediate danger, it’s time to assess whether any legal action should be taken. Dog owners are responsible for the behavior of their animals. If you or the victim you were with did not provoke the animal, then owner negligence might be involved. Talk to a lawyer experienced with dog bites to see what your legal options may be.