How to Identify Aggressive Animal Behaviors That May Lead to Dog Bites
Dogs are man’s best friend, but not all of them are friendly. Every now and then, a dog might attack a family member, neighbor, friend, or passerby to the point where it becomes an issue. Any type of dog bite attack should be taken seriously, even if the dog does not break the skin with their bite. The personal injury team at The Cashman Law Firm understands how traumatic a dog bite attack is and wants you to recognize aggressive behaviors before it is too late.
Common Aggressive Behaviors in Dogs
Accordion to the ASPCA, the following are the most common aggressive behaviors in dogs:
- Showing their teeth
- Growling
- Hitting a person with their nose
- A bark from their gut that sounds aggressive
- Becoming still and rigid
- Nipping that does not leave any marks
- Charging at someone without making contact
- Biting someone hard enough to leave a bruise
- A quick bite that breaks the skin
- Repeatedly biting someone
- Biting and shaking the person
- Biting someone until puncturing their skin
- Snarling at someone (growling and showing teeth simultaneously)
Why Are Dogs Aggressive?
There are a multitude of reasons why dogs are aggressive. It is also important to note that not every dog will exhibit signs of aggression in their life. Most will never exhibit a single sign of aggression. However, it is vital to your safety that you know why dogs are aggressive. The most common reasons why dogs are aggressive include the following:
- Protecting their territory
- Because they are in pain
- Protecting a loved one
- Protecting their possessions
- Fear
- Social situations
- Redirections
- Sexual temptations
- Predatory
What to Do if You Are Bitten By a Dog
If you ever find yourself injured in a dog bite attack, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Even if the bite was a brief nip and the skin was not broken, get yourself to an urgent care center as soon as possible. You want to have documentation from a medical professional that you were bitten by a dog and that you sought care.
You need to notify the dog’s owner as soon as possible about the attack, especially if the owner did not see it happen. Be sure to obtain the owner’s name, phone number, and address if you do not know them personally or if the incident did not happen on their property.
Once you have notified the dog’s owner about the attack, you should talk to a dog bite attack lawyer from The Cashman Law Firm. We will investigate the attack, collect evidence, speak to witnesses, obtain your medical records, and build a case on your behalf for compensation so you can focus on recovery.
Talk to a Dog Bite Attack Attorney in Massachusetts Today
Were you injured in a dog bite attack? The Massachusetts personal injury attorneys at The Cashman Law Firm can help you fight for compensation. You should not have to pay for medical care when your injuries were caused by the negligence of another. Call our office today to schedule a free consultation.