Dog bites Texas can be a serious issue. According to data from the City of Houston Health Department, there were 1, 178 reported cases of dog bites in the city alone in 2019. That’s about 3 incidents per day.
There are a few things you should know if you or someone you know is bitten by a dog in Texas. First and foremost, seek medical attention immediately. Even a small bite can become infected and cause serious health problems if left untreated.
In Texas, there are laws related to dog bites that every pet owner should know. Section 822. 005 of the Texas Health and Safety Code states that the owner of a dog is liable for damages if the dog bites someone who is lawfully on public or private property at the time of the bite. This means that if a dog bites you while you are out for a walk, or even if you are visiting a friend’s home, the owner of the dog may be responsible for any injuries you sustain.
It’s also important to note that Texas is a “one bite” state. This means that a dog owner can be held liable for a dog bite only if the owner knew or should have known that the dog had a propensity to bite. If the dog has never bitten anyone before, the owner may argue that he or she had no reason to believe that the dog was dangerous.
If you are bitten by a dog, it’s important to get as much information as possible about the dog and its owner. If the dog is a stray, contact your local animal control office. If the dog has an owner, get the owner’s name, address, and phone number. You should also ask for proof of rabies vaccination, as this is important information for your healthcare provider.
In addition to seeking medical attention and identifying the dog and its owner, you may also want to consider speaking with an attorney. If you are unable to reach a settlement with the dog’s owner or their insurance company, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover damages. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected.
Preventing dog bites in Texas is everyone’s responsibility. If you are a dog owner, it’s important to train and socialize your pet to minimize the risk of biting. Always keep your dog leashed when out in public, and never leave a dog unsupervised with children or other pets.
If you encounter a dog that is off-leash and acting aggressively, do not approach it. Instead, try to back away slowly while avoiding direct eye contact with the dog. If the dog continues to pursue you, use anything you can find to put between you and the dog, such as a backpack or umbrella.
In Texas, there is no statewide law mandating that dogs be muzzled or kept on a leash in public. However, many cities and municipalities have their own ordinances related to dog ownership and leash laws. Check with your local government to find out what rules apply in your area.
If you witness a dog attack in progress, call 911 immediately and do not attempt to intervene yourself. Stay on the line with the dispatcher until help arrives, and be prepared to provide a description of the dog and its location.
Dog bites Texas can be a serious problem, but by taking a few simple steps, we can all work together to keep ourselves and our pets safe. Remember to seek medical attention if you are bitten, identify the dog and its owner, and consider speaking with an attorney if necessary. And always remember to be a responsible pet owner and encourage others to do the same.
