The steps you take in the hours and days after a dog bite affect both your health and your ability to be fairly compensated. Here’s what we recommend.
1. Get medical care right away
Even a bite that looks minor can become infected quickly — dog mouths carry bacteria that cause serious infections. Wash the wound with soap and water and get it examined by a doctor or urgent care the same day. Ask about rabies risk and a tetanus shot. Follow-up care matters too: keep every appointment.
2. Identify the dog and its owner
Get the owner’s name, address and phone number. Ask whether the dog is current on its rabies vaccination. If the owner won’t cooperate, note where the dog lives and a description of it.
3. Report the bite
Report the bite to your local animal control agency (for example, Oakland County Animal Control, Macomb County Animal Control or Detroit Animal Care and Control) or the police. The official report documents the date, location, dog and owner — evidence that’s hard to dispute later.
4. Photograph everything
- Your wounds, right away and as they heal — including stitches, bruising and scars.
- The place where the bite happened, including fences, gates or the lack of a leash.
- Torn or bloody clothing (keep it, unwashed, in a bag).
- The dog, if you can do so safely.
5. Get witness contact information
Neighbors, passersby and friends who saw what happened can be vital if the owner later claims you provoked the dog.
6. Be careful with the insurance company
The owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurer may call you quickly (learn who pays for a dog bite). Their job is to pay as little as possible. You don’t have to give a recorded statement, and you shouldn’t sign anything or accept an offer before you understand the full cost of your injuries — including future scar treatment.
7. Don’t post about it online
Insurers review social media. A photo or comment taken out of context can be used to minimize your injuries.
8. Talk to a dog bite lawyer
A free consultation costs you nothing and can protect the value of your claim. Call (248) 212-7263 or send us a message.