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Dogs may be known as “man’s best friend,” but even the friendliest dogs can bite under certain circumstances. For children, the risk of being bitten by a dog is significantly higher than for adults. Whether it’s a family pet or a stranger’s dog, children are more vulnerable to severe injuries in dog bite incidents due to their size, behavior, and lack of understanding of animal behavior.
At Morrison & Hughes, we recognize the devastating impact that a dog bite injury can have on a child and their family. Understanding why children are at greater risk and learning how to protect them is crucial for every parent.
Why Are Children More Susceptible to Dog Bites?
There are several reasons why children are more likely to be bitten by dogs than adults. By understanding these factors, parents can take steps to reduce the risk and protect their children from harm.
Lack of Understanding of Dog Behavior
Children often have trouble interpreting a dog’s body language and warning signs. While adults may recognize when a dog is agitated, frightened, or stressed, children may not notice or understand these cues. As a result, they may unknowingly provoke a dog into reacting aggressively. For example, a child may try to hug or pet a dog that is showing signs of discomfort, leading to a bite.
Unpredictable Movements
Children, especially younger ones, tend to be more excitable and unpredictable in their movements. Running, jumping, and making sudden loud noises can startle or scare a dog, triggering its instinct to protect itself. Dogs may perceive fast or erratic movements as a threat, causing them to bite out of fear.
Size and Physical Vulnerability
Due to their smaller size, children are often at eye level with dogs, which can increase the chances of facial bites. When a dog attacks a child, the injuries are often more severe because children’s bones, skin, and tissues are more delicate. Bites to the face, neck, or head are common in children and can lead to permanent scarring, disfigurement, or even psychological trauma.
Lack of Supervision
Many dog bites involving children occur when adults are not present to supervise interactions between the child and the dog. Without guidance, children may approach dogs in ways that make the animals uncomfortable, increasing the likelihood of an attack. Supervision is critical to preventing these incidents.
Safety Tips for Parents to Protect Their Children
While dog bites can happen in an instant, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of your child being bitten. Here are some practical tips every parent should follow:
Teach Your Child How to Interact with Dogs
One of the most important things you can do is teach your child how to behave around dogs. Educate them on the following guidelines:
- Always ask the owner for permission before petting a dog.
- Avoid approaching a dog that is eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
- Never disturb a dog that is in its crate or resting.
- Do not run toward a dog or make loud, sudden noises that could startle them.
- Teach your child to remain calm and still if a dog approaches them rather than running away or screaming.
Supervise All Interactions
Never leave young children alone with a dog, even if it’s a family pet. Supervision is key to preventing misunderstandings between the child and the dog that could result in a bite. Ensure that your child follows proper etiquette when interacting with the dog and intervene if the dog shows signs of discomfort or stress, such as growling, snapping, or backing away.
Respect a Dog’s Space
Teach your child to respect a dog’s personal space, especially when the dog is in its bed, crate, or a confined area. Children should also be instructed not to hug or climb on dogs, as this can make the dog feel trapped or anxious, leading to defensive behavior.
Understand Dog Behavior
Help your child recognize the signs that a dog may be uncomfortable or feeling threatened. Some common warning signs include growling, baring teeth, raised fur, a stiff tail, or flattened ears. If a dog shows any of these behaviors, your child should back away slowly and calmly to avoid provoking an attack.
What to Do If a Dog Bites Your Child
Despite taking precautions, dog bites can still occur. If your child has been bitten by a dog, it’s important to take the following steps:
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Dog bites can cause serious injuries and infections. Even if the wound seems minor, it’s crucial to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
2. Document the Incident
Take photos of your child’s injuries, the location where the bite occurred, and the dog involved (if possible). Gather contact information from the dog’s owner and any witnesses to the event. This documentation can be important if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
3. Contact an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney
In Georgia, dog owners are responsible for controlling their pets. If a dog bites your child, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. At Morrison & Hughes, we have extensive experience handling dog bite cases and can help you navigate the legal process. Our team is here to ensure that your family receives the compensation and justice you deserve.
Let Morrison & Hughes Help Your Family
If your child has been injured by a dog bite, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. At Morrison & Hughes, we understand the emotional and physical toll a dog bite can have on a child and their family. We are committed to helping dog bite victims secure the compensation they need to recover and move forward. Contact us for a free consultation, and let us review your case. You focus on your child’s recovery — we’ll handle the legal process.