As a dog attack lawyer TN trusts, I’m no stranger to victims of violent dog attacks. But what most folks don’t know is that the chances of being injured by a dog increase during the summer months. Factors like kids on vacation, large groups gathered for a barbecue or picnic, loud music at outdoor parties, and even warm weather can be enough to agitate a dog on a normal summer day.

Tragically, more than 40% of dog bite victims are children and adolescents, and with kids out of school for the summer, the chances of encountering a dog are much higher. When attacked by a dog, children not only face physical injuries ranging in severity, they can also face lasting emotional trauma. I’ve met many children who have become afraid of all animals due to a frightening interaction with a dog, which is truly unfortunate.

In this case, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Read below for some helpful tips and information on how to keep you and your family safe from dog attacks this summer.

Helpful tips from a dog attack lawyer TN relies on

1. Tips to avoid being bitten

If you are enjoying outdoor activities this summer and are confronted by a dog that may be dangerous, here are a few precautions to help you stay safe:

  • stay calm
  • avoid direct eye contact with the dog
  • avoid yelling or kicking at the dog
  • stand sideways to make yourself a more narrow target
  • if you have a cane or umbrella, place it in front of you and claim your own space

By following these steps, there’s a good chance the dog will lose interest in you because it doesn’t perceive you as a threat.

2. Tactics to get away from an attack

If you’re attacked by a dog, you want to get away with minimal damage. First and foremost, always protect your face, chest and throat. Also, keep your hands in a fist to protect your fingers.

If you have any extra clothing on you — like a sweatshirt or jacket — you can use it to your advantage. You want the dog to latch onto something you can get away from. So take your arm out of your sleeve in hopes the dog will snatch that from you and be done. A shoe can work, too.

3. The owner’s responsibility

The best prevention of dog attacks is the owner’s responsibility. If a dog is trained properly and secured in a yard with proper fencing, then the likelihood of that dog attacking is rare. But not all dog owners are good dog owners. Failure to train a dog or lack of securing it can lead to dangerous situations.

In addition, some dogs, especially rescues, can have aggression issues. Dog owners should be aware of their dog’s aggression. Taking steps to protect other people — especially children — from playing and interacting with their animal is the owner’s responsibility. They should also keep a muzzle on hand when the dog is in public to prevent it from biting.

4. What to do if you’re injured

If you’re injured in a dog attack, immediately yell for help or call 911. The quicker your injuries are treated, the better your chances are for a full and quick recovery.

You’ll also want to file a police report of the incident as soon as you’re able, and keep copies of your medical records to take home with you.

Contact a dog attack lawyer TN trusts for a FREE consultation today

It’s tragic to see dog attacks hurt people physically and emotionally. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog that isn’t yours, then you shouldn’t be responsible for the medical bills and other damages you suffered. The owner should.

Give us a call at (901) 327-2100 or contact us online for a FREE consultation with an experienced dog attack lawyer. For over 30 years, our team has helped victims of dog attacks recover the compensation they’re entitled to. We can help you, too.