New Jersey Dog Bite Lawyers
Dog Bite First Aid
Dog owners are not only responsible for the well-being of their pets, but also the well-being of all people whom their pets come into contact with. Owners of dogs must always realize that, no matter how even-tempered a dog may appear, that any dog’s actions are truly unpredictable. The American Veterinary Medical Association explains it best; while there is no such thing as a bad breed of dog, all dogs have the ability to bite if they are provoked.
In treating New Jersey dog bites, first and foremost, as with any wound, the bite needs to be cleaned to inhibit the spread of infection. In some cases, antibiotics might even be required to help offset the infection, while in others a tetanus shot or even a rabies vaccine may be required to ensure the dog bite victim recovers fully. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), almost 5 million people become victims of dog bites annually, while more 15% of those 5 million people requiring medical attention.
Dog bites can also result in more serious injuries, such as torn tendons and muscle damage. Such injuries can require extensive surgeries and can seriously impair an individual’s ability to comfortably function. Regardless of the severity of injury, all dog bites should be treated by a medical professional as soon as possible in order to provide the victim with the best chance at full recovery.
Obviously, dogs cannot be held liable for the injuries that they may cause, but their owners can. It is the responsibility of dog owners to ensure that their pets do not harm people, and such a notion is particularly true if the history of the dog in question involves aggressive acts. If a person is injured by another person’s dog, then the dog owner should, at the very least, offer some sort of first aid assistance to the injured party until properly trained medical professionals are able to administer help.
Ultimately, people are responsible for their property, especially when their property harms another person. Dogs, though often considered more than just pets, are in fact property. If you have been the victim of a dog bite, please don’t hesitate to contact the New Jersey dog bite injury law firm of Lependorf & Silverstein. Our dog bite attorneys will examine the circumstances leading up to your dog bite, and will hold negligent parties accountable for their actions. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation of your case.