What To Do If Your Dog Bites

The following information was taken from the Humane Society of the United States.

If your dog bites someone you should immediately confine your dog and check on the victim's condition. If necessary, seek medical or emergency assistance.

Provide the victim with important information, such as your dog's last rabies vaccination.

Cooperate with the Animal Control Officer responsible for acquiring information about your dog.

If your dog must be quarantined for any length of time, ask whether he may be confined within your home or at your veterinarian's hospital. Strictly follow quarantine requirements for your dog.

Seek professional help to prevent your dog from biting agian. Consult with your veterinarian, who may refer you to an animal behaviorist or a dog trainer.

If your dog's dangerous behavior cannot be controlled, do not give him to someone else without carefully evaluating that person's ability to protect him and prevent him from biting again. Because you know your dog is dangerous, you may be held liable for any damage he does even when he is given to someone else.

Don't give your dog to someone who wants a dangerous dog. "Mean" dogs are often forced to live isolated lives and could become even more likely to attack someone in the future. If you must give up your dog due to dangerous behavior, consult with your veterinarian to explore your options.