Holidays are a time for family, friends, and celebration, but they can also lead to an unexpected danger: dog bites. While most dogs are well-behaved and friendly, the chaos and excitement of a holiday can trigger aggressive behavior in even the most mild-mannered pets.
Understanding why dogs may bite during these times and knowing how to prevent injuries is crucial for keeping everyone safe during the festivities.
Knowing your legal rights is crucial if you or a loved one has been bitten. Contact a Baton Rouge dog bite lawyer at Dudley DeBosier to explore your options for seeking compensation.
Why Are Dog Bites More Common on Holidays?
Several factors make holidays a higher-risk time for dog bites. Here are some reasons why dogs may be more likely to bite during special occasions:
- Increased Noise and Chaos: Holidays often mean more noise, whether from fireworks, loud music, or a house full of guests. Dogs, especially those not used to commotion, can become anxious or overwhelmed. This stress can lead to defensive or aggressive behavior, especially if the dog feels cornered or overstimulated by unfamiliar people and noises.
- Strangers in the Home: Dogs are territorial animals, and unfamiliar faces in their homes can make them feel threatened. During holidays, visitors like extended family members or friends might interact with a dog that isn’t used to them. A normally calm dog might snap out of fear or discomfort.
- Food Aggression: Holidays usually involve large meals, and dogs may become possessive or aggressive around food. If a dog is not well-trained or has a history of guarding food, it may bite someone who approaches while it’s eating or near its food. Children, in particular, might unknowingly provoke this behavior by getting too close to a dog that is eating or by trying to feed it from the table.
- Children’s Behavior: Children are often excited during the holidays and may not understand how to interact safely with dogs from other households. Running, shouting, or sudden movements can easily startle a dog, leading to a bite. Children might also unknowingly engage in rough play, pulling on a dog’s ears or tail, which can cause the dog to react defensively.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog bites can range from minor scrapes to severe injuries that require medical attention. Some common injuries include:
| Dog Bite Injury | Description |
| Puncture Wounds | Even small bites can break the skin, causing puncture wounds. These injuries are often painful and can easily become infected if not treated. |
| Lacerations | Bites can tear through multiple layers of skin, causing lacerations. Depending on the depth and location, these open wounds may bleed heavily, require stitches, and carry a high risk of long-term scarring. |
| Nerve Damage | If a bite penetrates deeply, it can sever or damage nerves, resulting in numbness, tingling, or loss of function in the affected area. Nerve damage may require extensive treatment and rehabilitation. |
| Infections | Dog bites can introduce bacteria such as Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Capnocytophaga into the body. Without prompt medical attention, this can lead to abscesses, cellulitis, or even sepsis. |
| Emotional Trauma | The psychological impact of a dog bite can be severe, especially in young children. Victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), ongoing anxiety, or a lasting fear of dogs and other animals. |
Preventing Dog Bites During Holidays
While dog bites are always a risk, you can take steps to minimize the chances of an incident during the holiday season. Here’s what to do:
- Keep Dogs in a Separate Room: If you’re hosting a holiday event and your dog is prone to stress or aggressive behavior, keep it in a quiet room away from guests to prevent it from feeling overwhelmed by the noise and unfamiliar faces.
- Supervise and Prepare Guests: Supervise interactions between children and dogs and teach children to approach calmly while avoiding rough play. Make sure all guests understand your dog’s boundaries, such as giving the dog space during mealtime or avoiding actions that may cause discomfort.
- Provide Distractions for the Dog: To keep your dog calm, offer chew toys or treats to keep them occupied. This can help reduce their anxiety and keep them from feeling agitated by the holiday commotion.
What To Do If a Dog Bites You
If a dog bites you or someone else, take immediate action to prevent infection and seek medical attention if necessary. Follow these steps:
- Clean the Wound: Wash the bite with a gentle antibacterial soap and water to reduce the risk of infection. If the wound is deep or bleeding heavily, apply pressure and cover it with a clean bandage.
- See a Medical Professional: Even minor dog bites can lead to serious infections. Visit urgent care or the emergency room to assess the wound, provide treatment, and check for infections.
- Document the Incident: Take photos of the bite and document how the incident occurred. This can be important for any potential legal claims you may need to make to cover your medical expenses.
- Contact the Dog Owner: Ensure the dog’s owner knows about the bite and confirm that the dog is vaccinated, particularly against rabies.
- Consult a Dog Bite Lawyer: Speak with an experienced Baton Rouge dog bite lawyer who can help you understand your rights. They can help you file a claim for medical bills and other damages so you aren’t left with out-of-pocket costs after the attack.
Homeowners’ and Renters’ Insurance May Cover Dog Bites
Many people hesitate to seek compensation after a dog bite, especially when the dog belongs to a friend or family member. They worry it might cause financial strain or affect the relationship. It’s important to know that most homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies cover dog bites, with limits usually between $100,000 and $300,000.
This means the insurance will cover your medical bills and other expenses, so your friend or family member doesn’t have to pay out of pocket. That way, you can focus on recovering without worrying about straining your relationship or finances.
Contact a Baton Rouge Dog Bite Lawyer
The holidays are a time for fun and celebration with loved ones, but accidents like dog bites can happen unexpectedly. If you or someone close to you gets hurt, it’s good to know you can get the support you need without added stress.
At Dudley DeBosier, our Baton Rouge dog bite lawyers can help you seek financial support for your injuries so you can focus on enjoying the season. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn your legal options.
Disclaimer: This content has been reviewed by Chad Lederman, Director of Legal Operations at our New Orleans office.
