Pocatello Dog Bite Attorney

Dogs, the majority of people like them, and in Idaho we have the highest percentage of dog ownership of any state in the Union according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. In fact, we are 6% higher than the next highest states which are Montana and Arkansas. Most of the time our pets form a vital and comforting part of our household. However, according to the Center for Disease Control, there are about 4.7 million dog bites which occur in the United States every year. This means that one out of every 69 people in the United States can expect to be bitten. In Southern Idaho, thirty mail carriers were bitten in 2016.

Here at Racine Olson, we have attorneys and staff who are also pet lovers. However, we recognize the importance of responsible ownership and, if you are injured as a result of a dog bite attack, we will be happy to help you obtain and recover what you are entitled to.

In Pocatello Idaho, dogs are required to be on a leash no longer than ten feet. If a dog is in an area where they are allowed to be off of a leash, they need to be under immediate supervision and voice control. There are circumstances where the owner should be aware that their pet is vicious and likely to bite someone. If he or she allows the animal to injure another person then the owner is responsible for the damages caused by it. Furthermore, if a dog is trespassing on someone else’s land and bites a person, the owner can be held liable whether or not they knew of the dog’s dangerous attributes.

There are other nuances in the law and so it is important for you to seek a lawyer who is familiar with this area and can help you.

There are things that you can do to reduce the risk of receiving a dog bite.

1. Don’t touch a dog’s food bowl or be in close proximity when it is eating. Also, make sure that kids are kept away during feeding time. Dogs are territorial at times and may lash out when it thinks that its food is threatened.
2. Don’t allow children to pull or twist various parts on a dog. Although a large dog may not react violently, smaller dogs are injured more easily and often do bite quickly.
3. Don’t approach unfamiliar dogs quickly. Often times, the animal will think its territory is being threatened and defend itself or its owner. When in close proximity to a strange dog, move slowly. Finally, if you are in a threatening situation, try to remain calm. Don’t scream or yell or lash out. Back away slowly, speak softly and attempt to dispel the animal’s anxiety.

If you have been bitten, you need to do two things.

1. First, get medical help.
2. Call the authorities so that the animal can be tested.

Once the situation is resolved, give us a call at Racine Olson. We have been able to solve these types of problems for years and have decades of experience.