Defensive Measures Dog Owners Should Take to Prevent Legal Claims

As a dog owner, it's critical to take proactive steps to prevent dog-related injuries and the subsequent legal headaches that may follow.

Recent statistics indicate a concerning trend: annually, canine companions are responsible for biting an estimated 4.7 million individuals.

The reasons behind this are as varied as the 62 million pet dogs in the United States. Some suggest that a heightened concern for personal safety has led Americans to choose more protective breeds. Coupled with hectic lifestyles that leave dogs unattended, untrained, and lacking social exposure, these factors contribute to creating environments where dogs are more likely to become aggressive. Particularly susceptible are dogs that spend extensive time alone or restrained, which can foster adverse behaviors like biting.

Generally, the law tends to side with individuals who have been injured by a dog. Historically, owners had the protection of "one free bite," meaning liability did not apply unless the dog had previously displayed dangerous tendencies. A growl or lunge at someone was adequate warning that the dog might bite, alerting owners to potential hazards.

Today, however, many states hold dog owners accountable for any harm their dogs inflict, irrespective of whether the dog was known to be dangerous. Dog owners might be responsible for covering medical bills, lost wages, or even emotional distress in cases involving children. Defenses claiming the dog was provoked or that the person was trespassing are difficult to validate, and the onus of proof lies heavily on the dog owner.

To circumvent such scenarios, prevention is crucial—as most bites are indeed preventable.

As a responsible pet owner, it's your duty to effectively train and socialize your dog. Humane societies frequently offer affordable obedience classes to teach your dog proper behavior around other animals and people. For guidance, books like "How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend" and "The Art of Raising a Puppy," by the Monks of New Skete, are excellent resources.

Spaying or neutering your dog is also imperative. This not only reduces the population of unwanted dogs but statistically decreases the likelihood of biting incidents. Neutered or spayed dogs are three times less prone to bite, according to the Humane Society of the United States.

Here are some additional preventive steps:

• Never allow your dog to roam unsupervised. In certain jurisdictions, any damage your dog causes while uncontained could result in automatic liability.
• Maintain up-to-date vaccinations, particularly for rabies; it's a legal requirement. A bite from an unvaccinated dog is taken more seriously by both the law and the victims.
• Restrict your dog's access to areas where strangers often visit, like your front door. Erecting a fence without securing your front yard is insufficient, as most visitors will proceed through an open gate.
• Display warning signage if there's any possibility of your dog injuring visitors. Nevertheless, extra precautions are necessary as young children may not heed these warnings.

Children, especially boys, are disproportionately affected by dog bites, often due to a lack of understanding about how to safely interact with dogs. Crucial safety tips include:

• Allow a dog to sniff you before attempting to pet it.
• Never bother a dog that is eating, sleeping, or tending to puppies.
• Avoid running from a dog, as this may trigger a chase response.
• Refrain from direct eye contact with dogs, which could be seen as a challenge.

It's vital to recognize that danger can also stem from familiar dogs in their own homes, where they may exhibit protective behaviors. Familiarity doesn't equal safety, so caution should always be exercised.

If you or someone you know is facing legal complications due to a dog bite or injury, reach out to Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers for knowledgeable guidance. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive the support and representation you need. Contact us today at (800) 654-1949 for a Free Consultation and safeguard your rights with trusted legal insight.