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by Mike
- December 6, 2025
Being attacked by a dog can be a traumatic and potentially life-altering experience. You will not just have to deal with physical injuries and emotional trauma. It is also important to take appropriate steps to preserve your legal rights to take appropriate action down the road. Read this guide and we will share more details with you on what to do after being attacked by a dog.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
The first priority after any dog attack is to seek prompt medical care. Even if the bites or injuries don’t seem severe, it’s crucial to have them professionally evaluated and treated to avoid the risk of infection. Head directly to the emergency room or urgent care and be sure to accurately describe the dog attack and document all injuries.
Request copies of all medical records for your files. Follow all medical advice and return for follow-ups if necessary. Prompt medical attention also establishes a record of your injuries.
Report the Incident
Another important step is to formally report the dog attack to local authorities. Call the non-emergency police number and request that an officer comes to take your statement and prepare a detailed police report. Be prepared to provide the officer with relevant details like where and when the attack occurred, the dog’s description, the owner’s identity and contact details if known, and specifics on how the attack happened. Having an official report is important for supporting any potential legal claims.
Document Everything
In addition to formal medical and police reports, take steps to comprehensively document the attack and your injuries yourself. For example, take photos of all bites, scratches, bruises or other injuries over the next several days as they develop and heal. Also photograph damage to clothing, belongings, or any other property.
If you witnessed people at the scene or have identified witnesses after the fact, record their names and contact details. Write down specifics you recall about the attack—the dog’s behavior before and during the incident, the duration, whether you took steps to retreat or deescalate before being bitten, etc. Document any related expenses like medical bills, prescriptions, lost wages from missed work, etc. Detailed documentation strengthens your recollection of the event and provides solid evidence.
Notify Animal Control
Another important notification is to contact your local animal control department and report the incident to them. Animal control is responsible for enforcing laws and ordinances related to animal and community safety. They likely will initiate their own investigative process. It includes impounding the dog for observation, investigating the legal requirements in your jurisdiction regarding “dangerous dogs,” and determining if the owner was in violation of any laws.
This process also involves assessing any necessary penalties. They also provide documentation that could prove useful in the event you pursue legal action.
Contact An Attorney
It’s highly advisable to contact an experienced dog bite lawyer as soon as feasible after an attack for guidance on preserving evidence, understanding your legal rights and options, building a strong case if you choose to file suit, and negotiating optimal compensation for your damages.
A Denver personal injury attorney can send official preservation letters to medical providers and other entities requiring them to maintain records related to your injuries. They can help strategize the best legal course based on the specific details and laws in your jurisdiction, which varies significantly. In many cases, dog bite lawyers work on a contingent fee basis meaning legal services are provided with no upfront costs to clients.
Follow Leash Laws and Confinement Requirements
If animal control determines the owner violated local leash laws or other confinement requirements, this documentation can significantly bolster your case and support additional grounds for legal liability. Make sure animal control has all relevant details about the location of the attack, whether the dog was properly leashed and supervised, and if there was an intact fence.
Also provide input at any dangerous dog hearings. Even if you decide not to ultimately take legal action, reporting dangerous dogs promotes public safety.
Seek Counseling if Struggling to Cope
The emotional impact following a severe dog attack should not be underestimated. While some recover quickly, many are left struggling with post-traumatic stress, phobias, anxiety, sleep disturbances or other issues. Victims might develop a fear of dogs, chronic stress about encountering loose dogs, or anxiety when leaving the home. If struggling to cope emotionally in the days, weeks or months after an attack, seek professional counseling or a support group. This creates a record of the psychological impact and provides help to overcome trauma.
Final Words
Dog attacks can detrimentally impact victims both physically and emotionally. However, understanding what to do after an incident can help preserve all legal rights. Focus first on medical care then document injuries extensively.
Report the attack to police and animal control then consult an attorney about your legal options. Seek counseling if needed. Appropriate response actions safeguard your health while also building a strong foundation for compensation claims. Prioritizing these steps after a dog attack facilitates physical, emotional and legal recovery.
