Dog bites are more likely to occur in the warmer months as many dog owners take their dogs along with them to do outdoor activities. This increases the likelihood that the dog will be exposed to people and other dogs that it does not know along with new and unfamiliar places. These factors easily set the stage for a dog bite incident to occur. The resulting injuries can be severe and have long term consequences. It is important to take certain precautions while out and about with your dog in order to keep both yourself and your dog safe. If you have been injured by a dog bite, contact an experienced Providence dog bite lawyer at d’Oliveira and Associates for help. We may be able to file a Providence dog bite lawsuit on your behalf to compensate you for your injuries.
How Can You Prevent Dog Bite Injuries While Out on a Walk?
Dogs are naturally social and curious animals, which makes them a fun pet to have. Most dogs love to get out and run or walk with their owners. However, not all dogs are friendly or open to socialization with other dogs or people. Many dogs can be territorial, protective of their owners, and even aggressive. The following are a number of tips on how to avoid a confrontation with a dog that could lead to a dog bite injury:
Keep an eye out for other dogs. It is easy to get distracted while walking your dog. Make sure to pay attention to your surroundings, and look to see if any other dogs are walking nearby or are out in yards you are passing by. This can prevent a surprise encounter with another dog.- Show respect for personal space. Dogs are often protective of their homes, yards, and owners. In order to avoid an aggressive response, it is important to maintain an appropriate amount of space and allow the dog time to get comfortable before approaching.
Do not approach unknown dogs without permission. Even if a dog comes across as friendly, approaching too quickly can cause a dog to become nervous and lash out. It is important to ask the owner if you can pet the dog first in order to prevent this.- Approach with care. If you are invited to approach a dog, do so in a polite manner. Approach slowly and speak to the dog with a soft, friendly voice. This will allow the dog to understand that you are not a threat and will promote a calming effect.
Do not disturb a dog that is sleeping or eating. Many dog bites occur because the dog feels surprised or threatened. Make sure you take into account what the dog is doing before approaching. Giving the dog time to adjust to what is going on can prevent an aggressive response.- Maintain control over your own dog. It is important to make sure your dog is safe and secure. Many states require that dogs be on leashes when in public. Make sure you use a leash that effectively keeps your dog right with you while on your walk.
Stay calm and encourage your own dog to stay calm. Dogs respond to the emotions and reactions of their owners. If you become nervous or upset when another dogs approaches, so will your dog. Maintaining a calm demeanor can prevent this and help prevent dog bite injuries.
Contact an Experienced Providence Dog Bite Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, contact one of our experienced Providence dog bite lawyers located at 390 Broadway, Providence, RI. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, among other losses. No fees are received unless we get you an award or settlement. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call us at 1-401-831-8600 or toll free at 1-800-992-6878. You may also fill out our contact form online.
Source:
- http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/dogs/tips/avoid_dog_bites.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/features/dog-bite-prevention/index.html
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
Rate this Post
Loading...