As parents, we are constantly teaching our children the best ways to stay safe in any number of situations. We go over fire escape plans and what to do if they are approached by strangers. One area that it is often overlooked, however, is how to ensure our children are safe when they are around other people's pets, particularly dogs.
It is easy to think of man's best friend as posing no threat to our youngsters, but unfortunately, kids are the group most vulnerable to suffering from a dog bite in the United States, according to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation.
Here are the top three things you should know about dog bites:
1. You need to talk to children about animal safety. Children between the ages of 5 and 9 are the most likely to suffer a dog bite, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This should come as no surprise, as young children are more likely to approach an animal with which they are not familiar.
As a result, it is a good idea to talk to your children about how to behave when around animals and how to react if a dog is acting aggressively. For instance, the CDC suggests that you should remain still when an unfamiliar dog comes near. It is best not to make direct eye contact or loud noises when near the animal. If a dog attacks, try to roll into a ball, protecting your ears and neck with your hands.
2. You can suffer serious injuries due to a dog bite. While it can be difficult to imagine some dogs doing serious damage, even a small bite can lead to serious consequences if not treated properly. If the wound becomes infected, it will be more difficult for the bite to heal.
In addition, if the dog is carrying one of many serious diseases, the harm done can be significant. Rabies is among the most dangerous diseases that can be passed from dogs to humans through a bite. Consequently, it is very important to seek medical attention immediately after suffering a dog bite.
3. You need to hire an attorney when you or your child suffers a dog bite. At Piering Law Firm, we believe that we all have a common pact with one another. When someone does something wrong, they should be held accountable for their actions. When it comes to dogs, pet owners are responsible for the conduct of their animals. Consequently, when a dog attacks, the pet owner should take responsibility for the injuries suffered by the victim.
In such cases, it is best to contact a skilled personal injury lawyer as quickly as possible after the injury. The medical expenses and time off work either to care for yourself or your child can be unmanageable. The lawyers at Piering Law Firm are committed to working diligently on your behalf.