No one wants to think about their pup biting someone, but it’s important to know what to do if it happens. California is a strict liability state for dog bites, meaning defendants in dog bite cases (usually the dog owner) are often automatically liable for damages caused, including when their dog is under the care of a dog walker or house sitter. In mots case, the Pet Parent can always work with a training company like SMP PAWS to help correct the behavior issue.
A dog owner can even be held liable if a dog bite caused another person to fall after closing their jaws around clothing or limbs, even if the bite failed to break the skin. That’s why taking the right steps after your dog bites someone can make a big difference in whether or not you are able to protect yourself and your dog from a potential lawsuit or having to put your dog down.
What To Do If Your Dog Bites Someone
Be a responsible dog owner. If your dog bites someone, help the victim by exchanging contact information, offer to pay medical bills, and keep others safe from your dog. Notify your insurance company if needed. If unsure about the severity of the bite, check our blog post “If Your Dog’s Biting Incident Has You Thinking Twice about Your Dog.” Your actions can positively impact your dog’s life and those around you.
Impact on You and Your Pet
If your dog bites someone, you are responsible for their actions in California. The victim may report it to animal services and ask you to quarantine your dog for 10 days if it’s the first time. Make sure your dog is vaccinated against rabies, or the victim may have to undergo treatment and sue you for damages. Once the quarantine is over, the victim could take you to court. If a veterinarian or vet assistant is bitten during treatment, owners are generally not liable.
Euthanize a Dog in California?
Is your pooch a repeat offender? According to California personal injury law, if Fido has attacked another human or animal twice in three years, they’re officially a potentially dangerous dog. That means the owner must keep them behind closed doors, but if they’ve inflicted major harm on a human, they’re upgraded to vicious. At that point, the owner must attend a not-so-fun hearing with a judge to determine if their furry friend needs to be moved to animal control…or worse. Consulting with a professional dog trainer can help turn things around for the better.
Prevent Dog Bites
Each year in the US, dogs bite around 4.5 million people and one in five of those require medical attention. Children aged between 5 and 9 are the most common victims. Most dog bites occur from dogs who are familiar to the victim. To reduce the chances of dog bites, seek professional help if your dog shows signs of aggression, keep them securely confined when in the yard, supervise young children around dogs, teach them about canine body language, and vaccinate your dog. Familiarize yourself with the laws regarding dog bites in your state just in case an incident occurs.
