Albia Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury lawyers become crucial allies for those injured by dogs. Their expertise in animal-related legal matters allows them to effectively handle liability and compensation complexities, securing justice and proper aid.

Practical Tips for Preventing Dog Bites

Whether you’re visiting a friend or neighbor, going for a walk in your neighborhood, or training a dog at home, it’s essential to know practical tips for preventing dog bite injuries. Understanding dog behavior, teaching children proper interaction, and taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of dog bites.

Pay Attention to a Dog’s Body Language

Learning to read a dog’s body language can help you identify how a dog is feeling, especially if you encounter one that may be dangerous. The Humane Society lists several signs of dog discomfort, including:

- Tensed body
- Stiff, high tail
- Flattened ears
- Bared teeth
- Backing away
- Intense staring
- Furrowed brow

If you notice any of these signs, it’s likely the dog is unhappy and could potentially bite.

Never Invite Aggression by Staring

If a dog stares at you, it feels threatened. Making and keeping eye contact can be interpreted as a challenge. Instead, divert your eyes, which is a sign of submission. A dog that perceives you as submissive is less likely to feel threatened and, therefore, less likely to attack.

Teach Your Kids How to Approach Dogs

Preventing a dog bite extends beyond knowing how to approach dogs yourself; you should also teach children about dog safety. Most dogs, even those you trust, may not like certain behaviors, such as:

- Having their ears pulled
- Hugs and kisses
- Teasing
- Being disturbed while eating, playing with a toy, or sleeping

Instead, teach kids that dogs prefer:

- To smell them first
- To approach at their own pace
- Having their necks and chests scratched

Avoid Teasing or Aggressive Games

Even non-aggressive dogs can sometimes bite when they’re teased or engaged in aggressive games. Dangling a toy or treat above a dog’s face, engaging in physical games like wrestling, or playing tug-o-war intensively may lead to a dog bite. Respect dogs and avoid teasing, threatening, or aggressive play.

Give a Dog Its Space

Most dogs feel threatened or territorial if you wander into their space. Keep your distance from dogs that you’re not comfortable with or those on their turf (i.e., in their yard, bed, house, porch, etc.). Even friendly dogs may act aggressively when defending their territory.

Keep Your Dogs Leashed

To prevent your dog from biting someone else, keep them leashed unless they wear an off-leash dog tag issued by your municipality or county. When heading to the dog park, make sure to follow all local regulations and guidelines.

Get Your Dogs Spayed and Neutered

Spaying or neutering your dog can help reduce aggression and decrease the risk of a dog bite. Your vet can provide more information about the appropriate age for this procedure.

Learn the Law and Take Action if Necessary

Dog bites can have serious physical, financial, and emotional consequences. If you or someone you know has suffered a severe dog bite attack, contact an Iowa dog bite attorney to pursue the compensation you deserve. The attorneys at Walker, Billingsley & Bair can help you understand dog bite laws, liability, and how to take legal action following a dog bite. Reach us at (888) 435-9886 today for a free case consultation.

Why Do Dogs Attack and Bite?

Dogs bite for several reasons, but three common ones include dominance, defense, and security.

Dominance

A dog may attack to establish dominance, often targeting small children because they are easy targets.

Defense

A dog may bite to defend its territory or guard itself, its owner, or its owner’s property.

Security

Dogs may strike if they feel threatened or distrustful of a person. Understanding these behaviors can help you avoid situations that may lead to a dog bite attack.

Tips to Avoid a Dog Bite Attack

To avoid dog bite attacks, consider these tips:

- Distance yourself from unfamiliar dogs.
- Don’t run from an aggressive dog.
- Remain calm and still when interacting with an unfamiliar dog.
- Don’t disturb a dog while it’s preoccupied.
- Don’t approach a dog from behind.

Circumstances That Make a Dog More Likely to Bite

Certain situations can make a dog more prone to biting or attacking:

Fear

A scared dog may display fear aggression. If a dog can’t escape from what’s scaring it, it may use aggression as a defense mechanism. Always face a dog that seems scared to prevent an attack from behind.

Territorial Behavior

Dogs may bite to defend their territory, which can include their property, possessions, or people.

Protection

Dogs may react aggressively to protect their owner or puppies. Dogs are social animals that naturally protect their pack.

Being Taunted, Teased, or Attacked

Dogs may respond aggressively if they are taunted, teased, or attacked. It’s never recommended to taunt, tease, or upset a dog, as this can be very dangerous.

When to Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer

For the complete list of things you should do if bitten by a dog you can request our FREE book, "Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites- Secrets to Not Get Bitten by Your Case" which is available to you with no risk or obligation by clicking here or by calling 641-792-3595. 

Why offer a Free Dog Bite Book?  Since 1997, I have been representing injured Iowans, including many dog bite victims from central Iowa and throughout the state.  I have heard too many horror stories about people making costly mistakes, causing them to lose thousands of dollars.  Before you talk to the insurance company you should know your rights and perhaps more importantly your responsibilities.   

If you need immediate assistance, contact us online or call us at (641) 792-3595. If you are not local to us, we will come to you.