Internet searches for 'dog attack' in the UK have increased by 125 per cent over the last 12 months.
While a well-trained dog will not go around looking to attack others, any dog can become aggressive if they are extremely afraid.
Dog attacks may be rare, but they can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.
There are a few important things you should know if your pet or a person is a victim of a dog bite.
Dr Heather Venkat, a veterinarian working in companion animal medicine, The Compensation Experts , has answered some of the most-asked questions about dog attacks, including how to avoid your dog attacking someone.
What should I do if a dog attacks?
If you’re attacked by a dog, the first thing you should do is remain calm and seek medical attention as soon as possible to get your wounds checked.
If your dog attacks someone, Heather explains: “The most important thing to do first is to get your dog off that person.
“Secure your dog as best as possible to avoid them getting loose again.
“Then you will need to make sure the person your dog attacked is okay.
“If your dog did bite the person, you need to exchange contact information and contact the police or animal control to file a bite report.
“You must follow all animal control rules to quarantine your dog for a period of time after it attacks someone.”
Who should I report a dog attack to?
If you have been the victim of a dog attack, you should consider contacting the police straight away to make a statement.
Be sure to take photos of the wound straight after it happens and save medical records and witness testimonies to back up your case.
Will my dog attack someone?
“Dogs can attack for a variety of reasons,” Heather said. “If a dog was trained to be aggressive, it may strike without warning.”
Signs that a dog is uncomfortable and might attack include: ears pinned back, lips curled, pulling and lunging on their lead while barking, and the hackles on their back raised.
“Not every dog will growl before it attacks, but if your dog is growling it could be a sign that they are trying to warn a person or another dog off,” Heather said.
“If a dog has shown signs of aggression due to fear, you will notice them licking their lips, turning away or trying to avoid a person or another dog, and you might see the white of their eyes more.”
How can I prevent my dog from attacking someone?
There are some things you can do to prevent your dog from acting on their aggression or fear.
“If you think your dog could potentially attack someone, avoid taking them out when you know other people are going to be around,” Heather explained.
“Consider putting a basket muzzle on your dog, which still allows them to open their mouth to pant and drink but would block them from biting someone.
“Try to recognise if your dog has specific triggers, such as other dogs, cats, bikes or cars that could set them off.
“Ensure the fence of your garden is tall enough to prevent your dog from jumping over and attacking someone.
“Another option is to contact a professional dog trainer so that you can work with them to try to prevent your dog from wanting to attack.
“Fear-aggressive dogs can also receive medications from your veterinarian which can help reduce their anxiety and potentially prevent your dog from attacking someone.”
How do I claim for a dog attack?
Dog bites can cause both physical and psychological scars, including a lifelong fear of dogs.
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, every person who owns or looks after a dog has a legal duty to ensure the people around it are safe from attack.
So, if you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, then speak with your insurance provider.
It is important to note that, though you can claim, it’s a very difficult process and you might not always get compensation, as most people are not insured for this, so it’s worth double-checking your policy.
