Dog bites can cause serious and life-changing injuries. Severe lacerations, scarring, disfigurement and lifelong emotional damage are few of the many issues you might be dealing with. You and your family can trust the Beattie Law Firm to use all of the resources we have available to see that you get the compensation you need.

Every dog can bite. If provoked, even the sweetest, friendliest dog will bite. Be sure to follow these safety precautions around all dogs.

· Do not approach strange dogs.

· Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.

Children are the most common victims of dog bites and the most likely to be severely bitten.

· Ask permission from the dog’s owner before petting a dog.

· Don’t run past a dog.

Dogs naturally love to chase and catch things. Don’t give them a reason to become excited or aggressive.

· Never disturb a dog that’s caring for puppies, sleeping or eating.

Dogs can be protective of their territory, and may interpret your action as a threat.

· If a dog approaches to sniff you, stay still.

In most cases, the dog will go away when it determines you are not a threat.

· If you are threatened by a dog, remain calm.

Don’t scream or yell. If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly. Avoid eye contact. Try to stay still until the dog leaves, or back away slowly until the dog is out of sight. Don’t turn and run. If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck. Protect your face.

· Ask permission from the dog’s owner before petting a dog.

If you or a loved one was attacked by a dog, follow these steps:

• Seek appropriate medical treatment
• Identify the dog that caused the injury
• Report the dog bite attack to the authorities
• Take photos of the injuries
• Document any costs you have incurred
• Contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as you are able

In the State of Iowa, any dog owner is legally responsible for damages caused by the dog when the dog attacks or attempts to bite a person. If you are a victim of a dog bite or attack, we at the Beattie Law Firm have the knowledge to establish fault in dog bite cases.