Dog attacks can be serious and sometimes life-altering. Katrina Elsey, senior associate in Switalskis Personal Injury team, delves into the root causes of these attacks and emphasises the importance of responsible dog ownership.

Katrina explains: “In my experience, the root cause of dog bites and attacks often lies not with the breed of the dog, but with the responsibilities—or lack thereof—of their owners or the person in charge of the dog.”

In the UK, several laws are designed to ensure that dog owners keep their pets under proper control. This blog explores how owners can take responsibility for their dogs, the legal framework in place, and the importance of moving beyond breed biases to promote responsible dog ownership.

In 2023, there were 16 deaths registered in England and Wales caused by dog bites or attacks, more than double the number from 2022.

Royal Mail said there were 2,206 dog attacks in the 12 months leading up to March 2024 - an increase of 15% on the year before.

Some of these attacks were so severe they left the postmen and women with permanent and disabling injuries.

As a result, the Royal Mail have launched an annual Dog Awareness Week, asking customers to take more care and responsibility over their dogs.

They are also support by Blue Cross, who ave initiated the "Protect Your Postie" training campaign to address the high number of dog attacks on postal workers. This program educates dog owners on how to prevent their dogs from attacking postal workers, including practical tips and training techniques to ensure postal workers' safety.

Steps to promote responsible dog ownership

Training and socialisation

Proper training and socialisation are crucial. Dogs need to be taught how to interact with people and other animals in a positive way.

Exercise and stimulation

Dogs that are bored or under-exercised are more likely to exhibit problematic behaviours, including aggression. Regular physical and mental stimulation are essential for a happy dog.

Healthcare

Regular veterinary check-ups can identify and address health issues that might cause a dog to behave aggressively due to pain or discomfort.

Understanding body language

Owners should learn to read their dog's body language to recognise signs of stress or fear, which can lead to bites if not addressed.

Safe space

Provide a safe space for your dog if they’re feeling overwhelmed. Even the most sociable dogs need a break sometimes.

Making a dog bite claim: steps to take

If you’ve been the victim of a dog bite, it's crucial to act promptly to ensure your rights and receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a dog bite claim:

Step 1: Seek medical attention

Your health and safety are top priority. Seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries. Medical records will also serve as crucial evidence in your claim.

Step 2: Report the incident

Notify the local authorities and animal control about the dog bite incident. This ensures that there is an official record of the attack.

Step 3: Gather evidence

Collect as much evidence as possible:

• Medical records: detailed documentation of your injuries.
• Photographs: take pictures of your injuries and the location where the incident occurred.
• Witness statements: obtain contact information and statements from anyone who witnessed the attack.
• Police reports: ensure you have a copy of the police report.
• Dog and owner details: get information about the dog and its owner or keeper.

Step 4: Consult a legal professional

Contact Switalskis for a consultation. Our team will listen to your account, understand the circumstances of the incident, and provide tailored legal advice.

Step 5: Formal notification

We will notify the dog’s owner about your claim, giving them a set period of time to respond. If they contest the claim, further investigations may be necessary.

Step 6: Negotiation or court proceedings

If the dog's owner or their insurance company is willing to negotiate, we will strive to reach a fair settlement. If negotiations fail, we are prepared to take your case to court to secure the compensation you deserve.

Step 7: Settlement and compensation

Once the claim is settled, you’ll receive compensation to cover medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and emotional distress.

Contact our dog bite claims specialists

It’s easy to blame certain breeds for aggressive behavior, but the truth is, any dog can become aggressive if not properly trained. All dogs have teeth, and all dogs therefore have the potential to bite.

Dog bites are a serious issue, but with responsible ownership, they can be significantly reduced. It’s not about the breed, but about how dogs are raised, trained, and cared for. By taking responsibility for our dogs, owners can ensure their pets are well-behaved and safe members of the community. Let’s move beyond breed biases and focus on what really matters: responsible dog ownership.

If you've suffered from a dog bite, let Switalskis guide you through the process of making a claim. Reach out to us today and learn how we can help you. Call us on 0800 1380 458 or email help@switalskis.com