Minnesota Dog Bite Lawyer

Gempeler, Butwinick & Donaldson Injury Lawyers

Dogs have always been part of the American lifestyle, especially in Minnesota. Dogs can provide us security, companionship and unconditional love. When an untrained dog rages out of control, however, it can threaten the security of you and your family. A dog bite can result in serious and permanent injuries. If you or someone you know has received a dog bite injury, contact a Minnesota dog bite lawyer at Gempeler, Butwinick & Donaldson today. We would like to help.

According to the U.S. Humane Society:

• Over 4.7 million people are bitten each year in the United States

• Approximately 18 people die annually from dog attacks

• Most dog bite victims are children

• The death toll over the past 20 years tops 300

• All dogs can potentially bite you

Why do dogs bite?

Dogs bite for a number of reasons. They attack out of fear, to protect their territory, or to establish dominance. Some dog owners mistakenly teach their dogs that biting is an acceptable form of playful behavior. The good news is that Minnesota dog bites can be prevented. The Humane Society ( www.hsus.org) suggests a few ways to avoid getting bitten by a dog:

What dog owners can do to help prevent a dog bite:

• Spay or neuter your dog. Dogs who have not been spayed or neutered are three times more likely to bite.

• Train and socialize your dog so it’s comfortable around different types of people and situations.

• Teach your dog appropriate behavior. Never play “attack” games with your dog. They need to understand the difference between play and real-life situations.

• If you don’t know how your dog will react to a new situation, be cautious.

• Be a responsible owner. License your dog as required by law and provide regular veterinary care, including rabies vaccinations.

• If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior such as growling, seek professional advice from your veterinarian, animal behaviorist, or skilled dog trainer.

What you can do to protect yourself:

• Never approach a dog you don’t know or who is alone without its owner, especially if the dog is confined behind a fence, within a car, or on a chain.

• Don’t disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.

• Don’t pet a dog, even your own, without letting them see and sniff you first.

• When approached by a dog you don’t know, don’t run or scream. Stand still with your hands at your sides, and do not make direct eye contact with or speak to the dog.

• If knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears. Lie still and keep quiet until the dog goes away.

• If a dog attacks, decrease injury by “feeding” them your jacket, purse, bicycle or anything else that can serve as a barrier between you and the dog.

Ten things to do if you receive a dog bite injury:

1. Seek medical attention immediately

2. Get the name and contact information of the dog owner

3. Get the name and contact information of any witnesses

4. Report your injury to the police

5. Request a copy of the report

6. Take photographs of the dog and the location where the injury happened

7. Take photographs of your injuries

8. Do not accept any settlement or admit fault with the owner’s insurance company

9. Save any clothing damaged by the dog

10. If you or someone you know has been injured from a dog bite, contact an experienced Minnesota dog bite lawyer at Gempeler, Butwinick & Donaldson.

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