February is Responsible Pet Owners Month. It is a time to celebrate the bond between people and their pets. Most dogs are loving companions. But when a dog bites, the impact can be serious and long-lasting.
If you or someone you care about has been bitten, knowing what to do next can protect your health and your legal rights.
What to Do Right After a Dog Bite
The first priority is your safety and medical care. Even a minor bite can lead to infection or other complications.
After a dog bite:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible
- Report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement
- Take photos of your injuries and the location where they happened
- Get the dog owner’s name and contact information, if you can
Prompt medical care creates a record of your injuries. Reporting the incident also helps protect others and documents what happened.
Why “Minor” Bites Are Not Always Minor
Some dog bites may seem small at first. A shallow puncture wound or scratch can still cause infection, nerve damage, or scarring. In some cases, people develop serious complications days after the bite.
Children are especially vulnerable. Bites to the face, hands, or arms can lead to visible scars and emotional trauma. Even adults may experience anxiety around dogs long after the physical wounds heal.
Taking a bite seriously from the start is important for both your health and your future.
How Liability Works in Dog Bite Cases
In many cases, dog owners are responsible when their dog bites someone. Florida law generally holds owners liable if their dog injures a person in a public place or on private property where the person is lawfully present.
This means you often do not have to prove the dog had bitten someone before. The focus is usually on whether the bite happened and the extent of the injuries.
Every situation is different. Factors like where the incident occurred and what the injured person was doing at the time can affect a claim. Speaking with an attorney can help you understand how the law applies to your case.
What Compensation May Cover
A dog bite injury claim may help cover:
- Medical bills, including future treatment
- Lost wages if you miss work
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Emotional distress and trauma
The goal is not to punish responsible pet owners. It is to make sure injured victims are not left paying the price for someone else’s negligence.
Moving Forward After a Dog Bite
Dog bite cases can feel uncomfortable, especially when the owner is a neighbor, friend, or family member. Many claims are handled through insurance, not out of someone’s pocket.
If you have questions about a dog bite injury, the team at Zweben Law Group is here to listen and provide clear guidance. You can contact us at 772-223-5454 or visit us online to schedule a consultation.
Taking the right steps early can protect your health, your rights, and your peace of mind.
Contact Us Today