Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
The saying, "a dog is man's best friend," is well-known for a reason — dogs can be loyal, loving companions and cherished members of many families.
While most dogs are friendly and well-behaved, there are occasions when they can be aggressive and even cause physical harm.
Unfortunately, dog bites are more common than you might think and can be especially harmful to children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that dog attacks are the eighth-leading cause of emergency room visits for 5 to 9-year-old children.
The American Veterinary Medical Association also reported that about 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually. Sadly, dog bites and attacks can require extensive medical care and potentially lengthy healing times — in addition to the emotional and financial consequences.
Naturally, Utah is not immune to the problem of aggressive dogs.
A variety of possible injuries
Dog attacks can lead to various types of injuries, depending on the severity of the attack — which also depends on the dog's size and strength. A bite could result in lasting bodily damage and scars.
Professionals at local law firm Parker & McConkie say possible injuries from dog bites include injuries to the head, neck and face, damage to tendons, tissues and nerves, in addition to scars, cuts, puncture wounds, infections, rabies and blood loss.
Unfortunately, even death is a possibility.
Just one year ago, in November 2023, a Taylorsville woman was killed in her backyard by her son's seven pit bulls — who lived with her at her house.
"Taylorsville police said the woman died in the hospital from injuries to her face, hands and leg. Doctors had amputated one of her legs in an attempt to save her life," reported Lauren Steinbrecher for KSL-TV.
That same week, Steinbrecher reported that three Clinton residents were attacked by three loose dogs right outside their homes.
Compensation to dog bite victims
When a dog attacks, the dog owner could be held accountable and responsible for covering the cost of damages.
Some of the possible losses could include medical bills, pain and suffering, lost income, property damage, and punitive damages.
In March of last year, a Kearns woman was also attacked unexpectedly.
In her interview with Andrew Adams for KSL-TV, she said, "I remember thinking in that moment, 'If somebody doesn't stop and help, I think I'm going to die and I'm not going to be able to hold my little boy again.' " She continued, "They got my arm, they got my side, my hip, my back and my butt, both of my thighs, my knee and both of my ankles … and a spot on my head. Yeah. It's kind of everywhere. It's still surreal that it happened and that I made it out of it."
Unfortunately, recovering from dog bites can cost a lot more than expected.
Parker & McConkie list some of the possible medical bills associated with a dog attack, which could include antibiotic therapy, medication, rabies vaccinations, stitches, tetanus vaccinations and wound cleanings.
What to do if you get bit by a dog
Being bit by a dog can be a traumatic experience, but it's important you remain calm and take action to keep yourself safe and protected — physically and legally.
- First, seek medical help. If a dog bites you, get it checked out immediately. Don't risk infection, lasting tissue damage or anything else medically related.
- Second, find the dog's owner and contact animal control or the police. If you're unsure whose dog it is, animal control can help by scanning its microchip if one exists.
- Third, take pictures of your wounds — all of them, no matter how small.
- Fourth, follow the doctor's orders. This is especially important if legal compensation is being pursued.
- And lastly, reach out to an experienced dog bite attorney, like those at Parker & McConkie. Liability laws can be complex, but with the right help, you can get the representation you might need.
Parker and McConkie explain on their website "If a dog owner's negligence has harmed you, you might have the right to a dog bite claim. With the help of our highly experienced team of dog-bite attorneys, we can guarantee that you receive the justice you deserve."
Contact them today for a free, no-obligation consultation at 801-851-1202 or through their website, https://www.parkerandmcconkie.com/
