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Published on December 5, 2023

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

Experiencing a dog bite can be a distressing event, and taking the right steps to report it is crucial for both your well-being and public safety. This article provides a thorough walkthrough of the process of submitting a dog bite report, offering examples of when and where to report, the information to include, and the necessary follow-up steps.

When to Submit a Dog Bite Report

Notify the Owner

In situations where the dog bite is not serious, notifying the owner is still a very important step towards correcting potentially problematic behavior. If the pet owner is left unaware of the dog’s misbehavior and the circumstances leading up to the incident, it is difficult for any owner to limit the chances of a future attack.

Seek Medical Treatment

In situations involving severe injuries or encounters with aggressive or dangerous dogs, immediate reporting is crucial. Emergency services should be contacted, and any necessary medical attention should be sought promptly.

Even if the injuries are seemingly minor, reporting the incident when seeking medical attention is important. If the bite doesn’t seem serious, any bite that breaks skin runs the risk of developing serious infection or disease. Explaining what happened to a doctor, getting the appropriate wound treatment, and any necessary antibiotics or stitches should be your immediate priority. 

Beyond addressing immediate health concerns, this documentation can be invaluable for potential legal actions or complications that may arise later.

Where to Submit a Dog Bite Report

Local Animal Control or Animal Services:

Locating and contacting your local animal control or animal services is the primary step in reporting a dog bite. Many jurisdictions offer online submission options, making it convenient to report the incident. For example, in Nebraska the Nebraska Humane Society is the local animal control center worth contacting. Animal control centers can prevent future attacks by checking for rabies, or quarantining dangerous dogs and requiring owners to take extra precautionary measures.

Law Enforcement:

If the dog bite incident involves aggressive behavior or criminal activities, it is essential to contact local law enforcement. They can assess the situation, take appropriate action, and ensure public safety. Local authorities can also take note of certain dangerous dogs or incidents within their records in an effort to prevent recurring incidents and hold owners accountable.

Information to Include in a Dog Bite Report

Here are some examples of important information an Omaha dog bite attorney recommends to document and include within your formal dog bite report in an effort to receive fair compensation: 

Victim’s Information

When providing your information, include your full name, address, and contact details. Additionally, share your age and any relevant medical history, especially if it pertains to the incident.

Dog Owner’s Information

Include the dog owner’s name, address, and contact details in the report. Providing a detailed description of the dog involved can assist authorities in identifying the responsible party.

Incident Details

For a comprehensive report, specify the date, time, and location of the incident. Offer a detailed description of the events surrounding the dog bite, and if there were any witnesses, include their contact information.

Medical Records

Include detailed medical records, such as doctor’s notes and treatment information. Photographs of your injuries strengthen your case and provide visual evidence of the severity of the incident.

Witness Statements

Collect statements from witnesses, if available, along with their contact information. Their accounts can corroborate your version of events and add credibility to your report.

Dog Information

Include any available vaccination records and details about the dog’s history of aggressive behavior. This information can contribute to the assessment of the dog’s potential threat to public safety.


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