Every dog owner swears that their pets are kind and well-mannered. But beneath the fluff and cuteness lives a wild animal that can snap—or bite—at any moment. Since we can't communicate with our dogs (no matter how hard we try), it's hard to understand why dogs bite when unprovoked. Sadly, dog bites are very common. Any dog is capable of biting and those bites can often require stitches. So, whether you're the owner of the dog or the dog bite victim, it's good to understand a few important things. Although it may sound dramatic, it may be time to get legal assistance from a dog bite attorney.

Before the Bite

Dog owners and non-pet owners alike should practice safety when out and about. If you're walking your dog, always remember to keep her on a leash. No matter how well trained your dog is, there's always a chance something might make her snap and run after an unsuspecting victim. Other times, a dog may simply come loose from the leash and run after another dog to fight. When this occurs, both dog owners may enter the fray in order to retrieve their respective dogs. Since both dogs are yapping and snapping their jaws, the owners can be at risk of bites. In order to avoid this, practice precaution and make sure your dog's leash is in good working order. Also, make sure your dog's collar is secure. The best way to stay safe is by keeping your dog in line. But what happens after the bite?

How a Dog Bite Attorney Bites Back

Dog bites may seem inconsequential until they happen. The injuries of these bites can span from minute to incredibly severe. Let's talk about severe dog bite injuries. In these instances, the victim may die from the injuries. Last year, there were 31 dog bite related fatalities in the United States. The victim's ages range from 3 days old to 92 years. Basically, no one is safe from a dog attack. It can happen to anyone at any time. Most often, dogs begin attacking for no reason. These dogs had no previous history of being aggressive and simply snapped for some reason.

More commonly, however, dog bites do not result in fatalities. Regardless, these bites may still be severe enough to require medical treatment, which can cause the victim to miss time from work and lose funds in order to pay for the treatment. Here's where hiring a dog bite attorney comes into play. Dealing with medical bills on top of a dog bite simply adds insult to injury. A dog bite lawyer can help you get the damages you deserve so you can rest and recover in peace. Contact the Lettunich Law Firm today to learn more about your options.