What To Do If You’ve Been Bitten By Someone Else’s Dog

It’s one thing to love dogs. It’s another to be bitten by one that isn’t yours. If you’ve just had a run-in with someone else’s dog and you’re dealing with the aftermath, it can be hard to know what to do next.

You might be in pain, a little shaken, and unsure of how serious things really are. But the truth is, dog bites can lead to infections, scarring, and legal complications if not handled properly.

Get to Safety First

Before anything else, make sure you’re out of harm’s way. If the dog is still aggressive or loose, get somewhere safe and call for help if needed. Avoid escalating the situation with the owner or trying to confront the dog again. Once you’re physically safe, take a breath. Then move on to the next steps.

Clean the Wound Immediately

Even if the bite looks small, you need to treat it seriously. Dog mouths carry bacteria that can cause infections quickly.

Here’s what to do right away:

• Wash your hands – If possible, before touching the wound.
• Clean the bite – Use soap and warm water. Let it run over the bite for at least 5 minutes.
• Apply pressure – If it’s bleeding, use a clean cloth to stop the bleeding.
• Use antiseptic – Apply something like hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol if you have it.
• Cover it up – Use a sterile bandage and keep an eye on it.

Contact a Dog Bite Injury Attorney

Dog bite laws vary depending on where you live, and liability isn’t always as clear as it seems. An experienced dog bite injury attorney can help you figure out what you’re entitled to, whether that’s coverage for medical bills, lost wages, or long-term care.

You don’t have to decide anything on the spot. But making that call early can protect your rights later, especially if the injury worsens or insurance gets involved.

Not all attorneys are the same. And when it comes to dog bite cases, you want someone who actually knows what they’re doing—because personal injury law can get tricky, fast.

Here’s what to look for:

Experience with dog bite cases – You don’t want someone who’s only handled car accidents. Dog bites have their own legal nuances, and an attorney familiar with local animal control laws, liability rules, and insurance company tactics can make a big difference.

Clear communication – You should feel like your questions are being answered, not brushed off. A good attorney will explain the process in plain language, not legal jargon.

Willing to investigate – In some cases, your lawyer may need to collect evidence, speak to witnesses, or review medical records. You want someone who’s thorough, not just looking for a quick settlement.

Contingency-based fees – Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront. They only get paid if you win or settle your case. But still—ask. Don’t assume.

Comfort level – This part is simple: do you trust them? You’re going to be working together through a stressful situation, so it’s worth choosing someone who makes you feel heard and supported.

You don’t have to go with the first attorney you talk to. In fact, it’s perfectly okay to speak with a few before deciding who feels like the best fit.

Get Medical Attention (Even If It Seems Minor)

A quick doctor’s visit might save you from a much bigger problem down the line. Even seemingly minor bites can lead to:

• Infections – Dog bites can introduce bacteria deep into the skin.
• Tetanus – A concern, especially if your vaccination isn’t up to date.
• Rabies – Rare, but still a real risk if the dog isn’t vaccinated.
• Nerve or tissue damage – Not always obvious right away.

Don’t wait to see if it gets worse. A professional can clean the wound properly, prescribe antibiotics if needed, and document the injury—something that matters later if legal action is on the table.

Exchange Information With the Dog’s Owner

Assuming it’s safe to do so, try to get the following details:

• Full name and contact information
• Proof of the dog’s rabies vaccination
• Home address or where the dog resides
• If possible, the breed and age of the dog

Stay calm and civil. This isn’t about confrontation; it’s about gathering facts. If the owner is unwilling to cooperate or becomes aggressive, don’t push. Instead, let local authorities or animal control handle it.

Keep an Eye on the Wound Over Time

Healing doesn’t always go in a straight line. Watch for signs of infection like:

• Redness or swelling that gets worse
• Pus or unusual discharge
• Fever or chills
• Increased pain after a few days

If anything seems off, go back to the doctor. Also, be aware of any long-term issues like numbness, stiffness, or scarring. These may not show up right away, but could impact your ability to work or do daily activities.

If You’re Not Sure, Ask

Not sure if you need medical care, or if the bite is serious enough to report? Still thinking about whether to call an attorney? Don’t second-guess yourself. When it comes to your health and rights, it’s always better to ask questions early than deal with problems later. You’re not overreacting—you’re protecting yourself.

Don’t Let It Slide

Getting bitten by someone else’s dog can be overwhelming. But ignoring it won’t make it go away. You don’t need to make a big legal move or have every answer right now. But you do need to act. Clean the wound, talk to a medical professional, gather the right info, and protect yourself legally if it comes to that.