Dog bites and animal attacks can cause serious physical injury and lasting emotional trauma — especially for children, who are bitten more often and more severely than adults. Owners and their insurers sometimes try to minimize what happened. We don't let that stand.

In many states, including Ohio, dog owners can be held strictly liable for injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before. That means you may not need to prove the owner knew their dog was dangerous — just that the attack happened and caused your injury.

Fighting for your right to compensation

If you or your child is facing physical injuries, scarring, or emotional distress after a dog bite or animal attack, our attorneys are here to help you build your claim and advocate fiercely for the compensation you deserve.

In Ohio and many other states, dog owners are generally held strictly liable for injuries their dog causes, meaning the owner can be responsible even without a prior history of aggression. There are some exceptions and defenses owners may raise, including:

• The victim was trespassing on the owner's property
• The victim provoked the animal
• The victim was committing a crime at the time

Landlords and property managers can sometimes share liability too, if they knew about a dangerous dog on their property and failed to act. We'll evaluate every angle of responsibility in your case.

Dog bites and animal attacks can cause a wide range of injuries, including:

• Deep lacerations and puncture wounds
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Nerve and tendon damage
• Infections, including risk of rabies or tetanus
• Facial injuries, especially in young children
• Psychological trauma, including lasting fear of animals

Regardless of the extent of your injuries, we're committed to helping you understand your eligibility for rightful compensation, including future reconstructive care.

Navigating the aftermath of a dog bite or animal attack can be daunting, especially when a child is involved. While every situation is unique, this path can help safeguard your rights:

1. Seek medical attention

Dog bites carry a real risk of infection. Even a bite that looks minor should be examined and properly cleaned by a medical professional.

2. Document the incident

Photograph the wound, your clothing, and the location where it happened. Get the owner's name, address, and contact information, along with proof of the dog's vaccination history if possible.

3. Report the attack

Report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement so there's an official record — this is often required and helps establish what happened.

4. Get contact information for witnesses

If anyone saw the attack, get their name and contact information while it's fresh.

5. Keep records

Retain all medical records, diagnoses, treatments, and photos documenting your recovery and any scarring.

6. Seek legal support

A seasoned personal injury attorney will guide you through the intricacies of your claim, ensuring your rights are upheld and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you or your child has been injured by a dog or other animal and you wish to pursue legal action, it's important to note that you typically have a limited window — often around 2 years from the date of the injury — to file a lawsuit, depending on your state. Should you fail to file within this statute of limitations, the court system will likely dismiss your case. Delaying your claim can be damaging, so it's best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

At Spivak & Sakellariou, we offer personal representation and will work tirelessly to build the best possible case on your behalf.

When you reach out to us, you connect directly with an attorney, bypassing any middlemen, because we believe in fostering a genuine attorney-client relationship. We handle all types of dog bite and animal attack cases, including:

• Dog bites on public and private property
• Attacks by dogs with a known history of aggression
• Attacks involving children
• Landlord and property owner liability cases
• Other domestic and exotic animal attacks

If you've sustained injuries in a dog bite or animal attack, our team is ready to help you evaluate the viability of your case and strengthen your claim — streamlining the filing process and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.