One of the most important questions that you can ask yourself when you notice a dog coming toward you is, “Does the owner have control over the dog?” If the answer is no, you should take immediate action to protect yourself. This may include crossing to the other side of the street, getting back in your car, stepping into a home or office building, or if nothing else, shouting at the owner to take control of the dog.
Hundreds of people are attacked by dogs every year. Exact numbers aren’t published because many people don’t report the attacks. However, all dog bites are serious, because they could mean the dog will bite again. Bites can also leave scars and cause permanent disfigurement. Don’t take a small bite for granted. Get checked out immediately by a medical professional.
So, how do you know if the dog owner has control or not? Here are some tips that may help you determine whether you need to be worried or not:
The dog should be leashed. If it isn’t, the owner probably doesn’t have control.
The dog should be obeying the owner while on the leash. If the dog is pulling and lunging against the leash, the owner might not be strong enough to hold it.
The leash should be securely attached to the dog, and the owner should have good control of the other end. If the owner is loosely holding the leash, the dog could get away.
Collars and leashes should be heavy duty, strong material. If the leash is for fashion only, it probably won’t hold the dog if it wants to pull away.
If you notice any of these things, try to avoid the dog, if at all possible.
Contact the Breyer Law Offices, P.C. right away if you or a loved one is attacked by a dog. Injuries can be expensive to heal and to fix cosmetically, and we work to obtain a settlement that helps you pay these costs.