Jacksonville Dog Bite Attorney

Preventing Dog Bites

Centuries of domestication have not relieved dogs of their basic instincts. Even a dog that is usually even-tempered and kind can be provoked into an attack. Because people’s minds are so different from a dog’s, we do not always understand how our pet is interpreting our behavior.

In the interest of public safety, we at the offices of Jacksonville personal injury lawyer Don Guthrie would like to offer some basic safety tips for avoiding dog bites.

• Do not disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping, or tending to puppies. Dogs are very territorial, especially when their young are involved, and will attack even a beloved owner to protect their resources and families.
• If a strange dog approaches you, do not run. A dog’s instinctive reaction to running animals is to chase after them. Stand very still and wait for the dog to go away.
• If a dog’s owner has given you permission to pet it, allow the dog to sniff your hand and watch its reaction before touching it. Make your hand into a fist before offering it to protect your fingers. If the dog withdraws or does not want to be touched, leave it alone.
• Do not leave a small child alone with a dog. Young children’s behavior can be very startling to animals, and even a small dog can seriously injure an infant.
• Do not lean over dogs or make direct eye contact. These are dominant behaviors that can make a dog feel threatened.

Dog Bites and the Law

Florida holds pet owners legally responsible for the damage their pets do. Unless you were severely provoking a dog, such as trying to hurt it, the dog’s owner is legally responsible if you are bitten.

Jacksonville dog bite lawyer Don Guthrie can help you win the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering. Contact our offices at 904-296-1088.