How to Deal with an Aggressive Dog in Your Neighborhood

Man's best friend might not always be friendly. If you are walking past a property or visiting a park and an aggressive dog comes after you, there are many actions you can take. Each of these four tips can help you to stay safe and protect yourself from an aggressive dog that lives in the neighborhood.

Speaking With the Owners

If possible, speak with the owners of the aggressive dog. The owners might not be aware that their dog is acting aggressively. It is possible that the dog only behaves this way when the owners are not at home. The owners may be able to take action to prevent the dog from biting or attacking by keeping the dog inside when they are not at home, or going outside with the dog when it needs to do its business. The owners might also be able to take actions such as installing a fence and ensuring that the dog is up-to-date on vaccinations. If the owners are not available or refuse to speak with you, consider sending a registered letter, especially if the dog has attempted to harm you. If you have a lawyer, ask the lawyer to send the letter and put his or her contact information on the letter.

Dealing with Dog Bites

Dog bites have the potential to be deadly. The dog's saliva can introduce bacteria or viruses through broken skin. Bacteria such as staphylococcus cause infections such as boils and necrotizing fasciitis. Dogs might also carry viruses such as rabies, for which there is no cure if you develop symptoms. If an aggressive dog bites you, rush home to wash the bite with soap and water. Keep note of the dog's address and head to the emergency room for prophylactic treatment against rabies. You might be given an initial, fast-acting rabies vaccine and receive instructions on completing additional shots in the next two weeks. You might receive a prescription for antibiotics and an anti-viral medication. You will need to file a police report about the situation, providing details of the time and location and a description of the dog. You might also want to contact one of many personal injury lawyers in Las Vegas
or in other areas, depending where you live. Your medical insurance may file a lien on the dog owner's insurance for reimbursement of your medical costs.

Contacting the Dog Warden

In most cities and rural areas, the authority dealing with aggressive dogs is the dog warden. This animal control officer is responsible for collecting stray dogs and picking up aggressive dogs that have bitten someone. The dog warden will collect your injury report and seek out the dog and its owners. If the dog's owners cannot provide proof of vaccination status, the dog could be quarantined or even euthanized so that it can be checked for rabies. The owners may face charges for their dog's behavior.

Talking With the Neighborhood Association

If your area is part of a neighborhood association, contact its leadership. A community resource officer from the police department may also be of assistance. People with aggressive dogs might not know how to train the dogs to behave properly. The community resource officer might be able to provide resources. In some places, certain aggressive dog breeds are banned from living in cities. The association might also be able to help you with devising ways to avoid aggressive dogs. For example, they could help you to find a new bus stop or route to school so that you can avoid the dangerous dog.

You have the right to be protected from aggressive dogs when you are on public property or your own property. If a dog does attack you, be sure to seek immediate medical treatment. You might also consider contacting the local dog warden.