What to Do After a Dog Bite Injury
Dog bite injuries range from minor punctures to serious, disfiguring wounds — and the steps you take in the first hours and days can meaningfully affect both your health and any later claim.
Immediate steps
- Get medical care. Dog bites carry infection risk even when they look minor. Clean the wound and seek treatment promptly.
- Identify the dog and owner. Get the owner's name, contact information, and, if possible, proof of the dog's vaccination status.
- Report the bite. Many jurisdictions require reporting dog bites to animal control or a local health department.
- Document everything. Photograph your injuries and the location, and get contact information for any witnesses.
- Keep records. Save medical bills, treatment notes, and any communication with the owner or their insurer.
How owner liability generally works
Dog bite liability rules vary significantly by state. Some states apply "strict liability," holding an owner responsible for a bite regardless of the dog's prior history. Others follow a "one bite" or negligence standard, where you must show the owner knew or should have known the dog posed a danger. Homeowners' or renters' insurance often covers dog bite claims, which is frequently how compensation is actually paid.
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This article is general legal information, not legal advice. We are not a law firm. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and change over time — confirm details with a licensed attorney in your state.