Spencer Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

In cases of dog-inflicted injuries, dog bite injury lawyers serve as crucial advocates for the victims. With expertise in animal law, they manage liability and compensation complexities to ensure justice and proper support.

Dog Safety for Kids in Iowa

Many residents are proud owners of four-legged companions. While dogs can be wonderful family members and companions, they also have the potential to be dangerous, especially to children who might not understand how to interact with them properly. Teaching children dog safety is crucial for preventing injuries and ensuring harmonious interactions between kids and dogs. Here are some essential tips for parents to teach their children about dog safety.

Be Calm Around Dogs

One of the primary lessons in dog safety for kids is to remain calm around dogs. Dogs, like humans, can become stressed by loud noises and sudden movements. Children should be taught to use an inside voice, avoid yelling, and refrain from making sudden movements when approaching or interacting with a dog. Gentle behavior helps create a safe environment for both the child and the dog.

Leave Sleeping and Eating Dogs Alone

A key rule in dog safety is to never disturb a dog that is sleeping or eating. Dogs can become defensive if they are startled or interrupted during these activities. Children should be reminded to wait until the dog has finished eating or has woken up before attempting to pet or play with it.

Ask the Dog’s Owner Before Petting

Children often want to pet every dog they see, but it's important to teach them to ask the dog’s owner for permission first. Approaching a strange dog without permission can be dangerous as the dog may feel threatened. If the owner gives consent, children can then proceed to interact with the dog.

How to Pet Nicely

Children should be taught how to pet dogs gently. Instead of hugging, kissing, or pulling on the dog’s fur or tail, children should be instructed to pet the dog on its chest or the side of its neck. These areas are generally safe and less likely to provoke an aggressive response from the dog. The top of the head should be avoided, especially with unfamiliar dogs.

Avoid Eye Contact

Direct eye contact can be perceived as a threat by dogs. To reduce the risk of being bitten, children should be taught to avoid staring directly into a dog’s eyes, particularly with dogs they do not know.

What to Do When Approached by an Unknown Dog

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that children remain still if an unknown dog approaches them. Running away or making sudden movements can trigger a chase response in the dog. Children should allow the dog to sniff them before attempting to pet it and should never play with a dog without adult supervision. If a child is knocked down by a dog, they should be instructed to roll into a ball and stay still until help arrives.

Supervision and Interaction

While some dogs are more tolerant of children than others, it’s important for parents to supervise all interactions between their children and dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) advises that supervision helps prevent accidents and ensures that both the child and the dog behave appropriately.

If Your Child Has Been Bitten by a Dog

In the unfortunate event that your child is bitten by a dog, Iowa law provides avenues for seeking compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. According to Iowa Code section 614.1(2), you have two years from the date of injury to file a claim.

Commonly Considered Aggressive Dog Breeds

While any dog can bite, certain breeds have reputations for being more aggressive. Insurance companies often list the following breeds as commonly involved in dog bite incidents:

1. Presa Canario: A mix of mastiff and pit bull, these dogs are often used to herd cattle.
2. Doberman Pinscher: Known for their guarding instincts and immediate response to perceived threats.
3. Husky: Complex personalities that can be challenging for inexperienced owners.
4. German Shepherd: Often used in police work, these dogs have a confident nature that can sometimes turn aggressive.
5. Rottweiler: Strong-jawed dogs that are often wary of strangers.

Other breeds frequently labeled as aggressive include pit bulls, wolf hybrids, Malamutes, and Akitas. However, it’s important to note that any dog can become aggressive based on training, owner behavior, and circumstances.

Vicious Dog Declaration in Iowa

Certain breeds are automatically declared vicious, particularly pit bulls and dogs with similar characteristics. Owners of these dogs must purchase homeowner’s insurance with a minimum liability of $100,000. Any dog that attacks without provocation has a history of aggression, or is trained for fighting can also be declared vicious.

Liability for Dog Bites in Iowa

Iowa's strict liability laws, outlined in Iowa Code 351.28, hold dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s breed or history. If a dog bites someone, the owner is liable for medical expenses. Victims can also pursue personal injury lawsuits if they can prove negligence, such as failure to restrain a known aggressive dog.

When to Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer

For the complete list of things you should do if bitten by a dog you can request our FREE book, "Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites- Secrets to Not Get Bitten by Your Case" which is available to you with no risk or obligation by clicking here or by calling 641-792-3595. 

Why offer a Free Dog Bite Book?  Since 1997, I have been representing injured Iowans, including many dog bite victims from central Iowa and throughout the state.  I have heard too many horror stories about people making costly mistakes, causing them to lose thousands of dollars.  Before you talk to the insurance company you should know your rights and perhaps more importantly your responsibilities.   

If you need immediate assistance, contact us online or call us at (641) 792-3595. If you are not local to us, we will come to you.