To report a dog bit, contact your local law enforcement or animal control agency. Reporting the incident creates an official record, which is vital for animal injury claims. The responding officer will typically verify the dog’s vaccination status and may quarantine the animal to ensure it does not pose a further threat to the community. This report serves as a foundational piece of evidence that animal and dog bite injury lawyers use to build your case.

Yes, you can sue for a dog bite. Under Wisconsin law, dog owners are held to a standard of strict liability. This means that in most cases, the owner is responsible for the full amount of damages caused by their dog, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. If the owner knew the dog had a prior history of being aggressive or biting (the “two-strike” rule), they may be liable for double damages.

The Wisconsin dog bite protocol is designed to protect victims and the public. State Statute 174.02 dictates that owners are liable for damages to persons, domestic animals, or property. Following an attack, the local health department typically mandates a 10-day observation period for the dog to check for rabies. For the victim, the protocol involves documenting the injury, reporting it to the authorities, and initiating animal injury claims through a personal injury law firm. The legal process is complex, and Herrling Clark Law Firm is here to guide you through every step of the state’s specific protocols.

Absolutely. Animal and dog bite injury cases often result in severe tearing, nerve damage, or permanent disfigurement that requires specialized reconstructive or plastic surgery. You can claim compensation for all past and future medical costs, including the surgical fees, anesthesia, and follow-up care.

To successfully pursue animal attack personal injury compensation, you need clear evidence. This includes:

• Medical Records: Documentation of your dog bite treatment and any diagnosed infections or permanent scarring.
• Photographs: Clear images of the wounds, the location of the attack, and the dog if possible.
• The Police/Animal Control Report: This establishes the date, time, and identity of the dog owner.
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from individuals who saw the attack or can attest to the dog’s past behavior.

Dog and animal bite scares  can rarely be “removed” entirely. Many victims of dog bite and animal attack injuries are left with permanent physical reminders of the trauma. In the eyes of the law, permanent scarring—especially on the face or hands—is considered a significant “permanent disfigurement.”  However, there are scar revision surgeries that are performed by plastic surgeons that can help minimize the appearance of the scar.