When Dogs Bite
While dogs are often a source of love, fun, and happiness, some dogs can behave erratically and lash out when unprovoked.
Unfortunately, dog attacks have increased over years, and according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 2% of people in America have been bitten by a dog.
Facts and Figures Dog bites account for a significant number of personal injuries reported each year.
The following facts and figures give one a sense of just how prevalent they are.
o800,000 dog bites require medical attention every year oNearly 368,000 emergency hospital visits are caused by dog bites oEveryone in America has a 1 in 50 chance of being bitten by a dog each year o33 deaths were caused by dog attacks in 2007 oCollectively, victims of dog attacks lose approximately $1 billion each year Liability and Responsibility Pet owners are responsible for ensuring public safety by keeping their animals controlled.
Different states have implemented various laws regarding pet owner liability.
There are three types of law regarding dog bites.
1.
One bite states uphold that pet owners are not liable for damages caused by their animal if it is their first offense.
2.
Mixed statute states are between one bite states and strict liability states.
In most cases, however, strict liability is favored.
3.
Strict liability states maintain that pet owners are always responsible for their animals' behavior, and are thereby liable for any damages or injury they may cause.
Depending on where you live, your rights as a pet owner and/or as the victim of a pet attack may vary.
Contact a personal injury lawyer for more information on pet owner liability.
Owner's Options If your dog exhibits erratic behavior, or has a reputation for violence, you should consider your options as a pet owner.
oBehavior therapy.
Many pet owners have adopted rescue animals with an unknown history.
In many cases, these animals have been subjected to neglect or abuse, which can permanently altar an animal's behavior.
Behavior therapy can enable owners to counter-condition their animal by learning relaxation and calming techniques, which can greatly reduce an animal's anxiety and likelihood to attack.
oRestraint.
If you are unable to predict your dog's behavior, you should be extremely cautious when taking him in public areas.
Always use a leash and warn strangers of your dog's temperament.
If you are having people in your home, it may be wise to put the dog in a separate room away from your guests.
oEuthanasia.
In instances when animals are repeatedly injuring civilians and all other options have been exhausted, it may be necessary to put your dog down.
Sadly, some dogs are unfit pets.
Dog attacks can be an extremely emotional situation.
For more information or assistance regarding pet attacks, contact a practiced Oklahoma personal injury lawyer at the Abel Law Firm today.
Unfortunately, dog attacks have increased over years, and according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 2% of people in America have been bitten by a dog.
Facts and Figures Dog bites account for a significant number of personal injuries reported each year.
The following facts and figures give one a sense of just how prevalent they are.
o800,000 dog bites require medical attention every year oNearly 368,000 emergency hospital visits are caused by dog bites oEveryone in America has a 1 in 50 chance of being bitten by a dog each year o33 deaths were caused by dog attacks in 2007 oCollectively, victims of dog attacks lose approximately $1 billion each year Liability and Responsibility Pet owners are responsible for ensuring public safety by keeping their animals controlled.
Different states have implemented various laws regarding pet owner liability.
There are three types of law regarding dog bites.
1.
One bite states uphold that pet owners are not liable for damages caused by their animal if it is their first offense.
2.
Mixed statute states are between one bite states and strict liability states.
In most cases, however, strict liability is favored.
3.
Strict liability states maintain that pet owners are always responsible for their animals' behavior, and are thereby liable for any damages or injury they may cause.
Depending on where you live, your rights as a pet owner and/or as the victim of a pet attack may vary.
Contact a personal injury lawyer for more information on pet owner liability.
Owner's Options If your dog exhibits erratic behavior, or has a reputation for violence, you should consider your options as a pet owner.
oBehavior therapy.
Many pet owners have adopted rescue animals with an unknown history.
In many cases, these animals have been subjected to neglect or abuse, which can permanently altar an animal's behavior.
Behavior therapy can enable owners to counter-condition their animal by learning relaxation and calming techniques, which can greatly reduce an animal's anxiety and likelihood to attack.
oRestraint.
If you are unable to predict your dog's behavior, you should be extremely cautious when taking him in public areas.
Always use a leash and warn strangers of your dog's temperament.
If you are having people in your home, it may be wise to put the dog in a separate room away from your guests.
oEuthanasia.
In instances when animals are repeatedly injuring civilians and all other options have been exhausted, it may be necessary to put your dog down.
Sadly, some dogs are unfit pets.
Dog attacks can be an extremely emotional situation.
For more information or assistance regarding pet attacks, contact a practiced Oklahoma personal injury lawyer at the Abel Law Firm today.
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