Hawarden 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.

Harboring a Dangerous Dog: Special Rules and Safety Tips

Owning a dog is a big responsibility. From ensuring that the dog is up-to-date on its vaccines to getting it registered, there are many tasks to check off for legal dog ownership in Iowa. When your beloved pet has been declared a vicious dog, there are additional special rules and requirements you must adhere to for harboring a dangerous dog.

When is a Dog Considered to be Dangerous?

A dog is deemed dangerous or vicious when declared so by the city’s animal control authority. Certain dogs bite more than others. According to Code 8.16.030, the forms of probable cause that can be used to label a dog as dangerous include:

- Written complaint of a citizen
- Dog bite report(s)
- Actions of the dog witnessed by law enforcement or an animal control officer
- Verified report of previous dangerous behavior
- Other substantial evidence

If a dog is determined to be dangerous, its owner must obtain a unique license and certificate of registration.

Special License, Certificate & Requirements

The dog owner must obtain the exclusive license and certificate within 30 days of the dog being declared dangerous. The certificate will be issued by the city, provided the dog owner meets the criteria for harboring a dangerous dog, including:

- Keeping the dog maintained within the property
- Posting a sign that warns others that the dog is dangerous
- Placing a sign with a warning symbol about the dog's nature that can be understood by children or the illiterate
- Obtaining a surety bond from an insurer for not less than $250,000

Liability for Dog Bites in Hawarden

When a dog deemed dangerous or vicious in Hawarden bites or attacks another person or animal, the dog owner is held liable under the theory of strict liability. As such, it is crucial that the dog owner carries a surety bond of not less than $250,000. Strict liability also applies to dog owners of non-dangerous dogs when their animals attack, provided the person attacked was not engaged in illegal activity at the time of the bite.

Dog Safety for Kids in Iowa

Hawarden has thousands of dogs, and many households own a four-legged friend. While dogs can be great companions, they can also be dangerous, even when unprovoked. Teaching dog safety for kids, especially around dogs they don’t know, is essential for keeping them safe. Here are some tips for child safety around dogs that all parents should teach:

- Be Calm Around Dogs: Teach children to use an inside voice and to be gentle. Stressful environments can make dogs anxious and more likely to react aggressively.
- Leave Sleeping and Eating Dogs Alone: Dogs don’t like being disturbed during meals or naps. Interrupting a dog during these times can provoke aggression.
- Ask the Dog’s Owner Before Petting: Children should always ask the owner for permission before petting a dog to avoid startling or threatening the dog.
- How to Pet Nicely: Teach children to pet dogs gently on the chest or the side of the neck, avoiding the top of the head.
- Avoid Eye Contact: Instruct children to avoid direct eye contact with dogs, as this can be seen as a threat.
- What to Do When Approached by an Unknown Dog: Children should remain still when approached by an unknown dog and allow the dog to sniff them before touching.

If your child is knocked down by a dog, they should roll into a ball and stay still. Always supervise interactions between children and dogs to prevent accidents.

If Your Child Has Been Bitten by a Dog

If your child has been bitten by a dog, you may be able to recover compensation through a personal injury suit. In Iowa, the statute of limitations for pursuing a personal injury case is two years from the date of injury (Iowa Code section 614.1(2)).

Circumstances That May Make a Dog More Likely to Attack/Bite

Aggression is the most common and serious behavior issue in dogs. Certain circumstances can make dogs more prone to biting:

- Fear: When scared, dogs may exhibit fear aggression as a defense mechanism.
- Territoriality: Dogs may attack to protect their territory, possessions, or owners.
- Protection of Owner: Dogs may react aggressively if they sense their owner is in danger.
- Being Taunted, Teased, or Attacked: Dogs may respond aggressively if they feel threatened or attacked.

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.