If a dog bites you or your service dog, focus first on safety and care.
- Separate safely. Avoid putting your hands between fighting dogs. Move to a safe place when possible.
- Clean a human wound. Wash with soap and running water. Seek prompt medical advice about infection, rabies and tetanus risks; urgent care may be needed for serious injury.
- Contact a veterinarian for an injured dog. Small punctures can conceal more extensive injury.
- Collect details when safe. Record the other owner’s contact information, vaccination information, witnesses and photographs.
- Ask about reporting. Local public health or animal-control authorities can explain applicable requirements.
- Check the applicable law and policy. Liability rules, defenses and insurance coverage vary. Neither a previous bite nor automatic insurance payment is a universal requirement.
- Get timely advice. A qualified lawyer in the relevant jurisdiction can explain deadlines. Do not assume negotiations stop a filing deadline.
Gradual, appropriate socialization and responsible handling can reduce risk, but exposure does not guarantee safety. This article provides general information, not a decision about an individual legal claim.
Sources
- CDC: Dog bites and care