How well do you know your dog? You probably can tell when they want to urinate, want something from you, or are stressed. However, just like human beings, dogs can sometimes be unpredictable. So even if your dog is the sweetest, calmest pet on earth, it could bite someone.
Whether your dog acted out of fear, excitement, or aggression, it’s important to know what to do when they bite someone. Keep reading to learn why dogs bite, what steps to take when it happens, and how to prevent future incidents. Remember, you must report a dog bite in Pennsylvania to avoid legal complications and to ensure everyone involved is protected.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Consult with an attorney if your dog has bitten someone or if you are the victim of a dog bite.
Why Do Dogs Bite People?
Even the best-behaved dogs can bite under certain circumstances. Therefore, you should understand why dogs bite to prevent future incidents.
- When they’re fearful and anxious: One of the most common reasons dogs bite is fear. If a dog feels threatened or cornered, it may lash out as a form of self-defense.
- To protect you: Dogs are naturally protective of their owners, food, territory, and toys. So, if they see someone as a threat, they might bite to protect what they care about.
- When they’re in pain or discomfort: If your dog is in pain, they might bite if someone approaches or tries to touch them. Illness or injury can make even a typically gentle dog act out of character.
- If they’re not used to socializing: Dogs that haven’t gotten used to being around other dogs, animals, or people may become easily frightened or confused, leading to defensive bites.
- When they’re overexcited or overstimulated: Some dogs can bite when overly excited, especially during play. While these bites are usually not aggressive, they can still cause harm.
What to Do If Your Dog Bites Someone
It’s important to stay calm and act responsibly when your dog bites someone. Here’s what you should do:
Ensure Everyone’s Safety
The first thing you should do is to remove the dog from the area to prevent it from harming more people. If the dog is aggressive or scared, put it in a safe, confined space such as a crate or separate room. Treat the dog calmly and gently to prevent it from becoming more aggressive.
Check on the Victim
Once your dog is secure, check on the person who was bitten. If there is a wound, help clean it with mild soap and water, and apply a clean bandage. You should encourage them to seek medical attention since minor bites can also get infected. If the injury is more serious, you should call 911 immediately.
Exchange Information With the Victim and Witnesses
Just like after a car accident, it’s important to exchange information with the person who was bitten. Give them your name, address, and phone number. You should also share information about your dog’s vaccination history, particularly whether it’s up-to-date on its rabies vaccine. This will reassure the person that they are not at risk for rabies. It also shows that you’re a transparent and responsible dog owner.
Get a Police Report
If the victim provoked the dog or is exaggerating the injury, you may want to get an incident report from the police. Having a written record of the event is important just in case the victim decides to sue you.
Cooperate with Authorities
If local authorities get involved, you should cooperate fully. They may need to investigate the bite, check your dog’s vaccination records, or assess your dog’s behavior. In most cases, this is routine, especially if it’s your dog’s first bite. They might suggest behavior training or other measures to prevent your dog from biting someone else in the future.
What’s the Law for Dog Bites in Pennsylvania?
Each state has its own dog bite laws. If your dog bites someone, it’s important to understand what the law expects of you as the owner. Here’s what the law says about dog bites in Pennsylvania:
Pennsylvania’s “Strict Liability” Law
Pennsylvania follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. This means that as a dog owner, you are responsible for your dog’s actions, even if the bite was an accident. However, the level of liability can depend on the severity of the bite.
- Medical Costs: You are responsible for the victim’s medical expenses, even if it’s the dog’s first bite or there were no signs of aggression before the incident.
- Legal Penalties: If your dog has a history of biting, you could face fines or other legal consequences, such as having your dog classified as dangerous.
You should also note that in Pennsylvania the law requires that you immediately report any bite from a dog suspected of having rabies, as the dog may need to be quarantined or tested.
How to Get Your Dog to Stop Biting
You must train your dog and keep it under control for the safety of those around you. Here’s how you can help your dog stop its biting habit:
Socialization
You should expose your dog to different people, animals, and environments to help them stop their aggressive behavior. Positive experiences in new situations can reduce anxiety and fear, which often trigger biting.
Training and Obedience
Basic obedience training can go a long way in preventing bites. Teaching your dog basic commands, such as ‘no,’ ‘wait,’ or ‘leave,’ makes it easier for you to control it.
Don’t Expose Them to Triggers
Keep your dog away from potential triggers in its environment. These triggers may include loud noises, certain types of people, or specific objects in its surroundings.
Supervise and Control Your Dog
You should supervise your dog when it’s with young children or strangers, particularly if the dog has a history of biting. You can use leashes, fences, or muzzles when necessary to prevent aggressive behavior.
Take Responsibility for Your Dog
A dog bite can happen so fast, regardless of how careful you are. Therefore, the best plan is to ensure your dog is well-trained. This way, they’ll be less likely to bite. If your dog begins to show signs of aggression, get professional help immediately. Remember, you must report a dog bite in Pennsylvania, not only to comply with the law but also to protect everyone involved.