"A man's best friend" is one of the most common ways that we refer to the Carnivora mammal, the dog. Around 15,000 or even as early as 100,000 years ago, based on newly found scientific evidence like genetic fossils, dogs were domesticated from their ever so friendly cousin, the wolves; however, after thousands of years of training, the dogs we now know today are not as aggressive as their cousins and don't rely entirely upon their natural instincts, as they can live side by side with humans.
During this time, the species evolved into many different breeds like the Boxer, Cocker Spaniel, Chihuahua and Golden Shepard, etc., all of which are much loved family pets. The differences in the breeds are obvious as they range in sizes, colours, behaviours, appearances, mating habits, etc.
Dogs are, like humans, highly sociable animals and this can be seen in their playfulness, trainability, attitude and ability to fit into households and social groups comfortably. Dogs are loyal and devoted to their owners, providing them with company and also protection. The bond of human and dog always seems comfortable as we get along so well.
Families with dogs treat their pets with the utmost respect and love, just as if they were a part of their family and dogs do the same. Dogs treat their human family as members of their pack. Both sides provide comfort and reliability, helping each other through rough situations. With such a strong bond and reliance between the two, of course it's easy to say that dogs are a man's best friend.
However, what happens when a dog turns sore and their natural instinct kicks in, pushing them to the limit? What happens when the dog turns into a threat? It's hard to imagine that such a lovable creature that almost seems perfect can become a threat and attack humans; however, needless to say, it can happen.
It sure is frightening to open up the newspaper with the headline "Dog attacked human". But what happens if that was YOUR dog or if you were the victim? What can you do about it?
First of all, if you were a victim of an unprovoked attack by your neighbour's dog, but with no serious harm done (no blood or broken skin), then try to take the high road and let it go. Of course, make sure your neighbour knows about it and he'll probably be eager to set things right. You can remind them of the local leash law as well just to make sure it won't happen again.
If it was a serious injury, remember to identify the animal which bit you, or caused the injury. If the animal hasn't had their shots, or hasn't even been caught, then needless to say, you may need painful rabies vaccinations. Get the name, address and telephone number of both the owner of the animal and everyone else who witnessed this incident. Receive medical attention for your wounds and potential health issues. Remember to keep the medical bills and treatment records. Also, if possible photograph the wounds and talk everything over with your lawyer. If you're the owner of a dog, remember to get insurance and also be familiar with your state laws on pets and animals. This is to protect you from liability of if your dog attacks someone.
If you happen to be at the scene of the accident and you're the owner of the pet, remember to stay calm and accommodate the victim as much as possible and make sure he/she gets medical attention. Avoid making any statements about the situation and get the names and addresses of all the witnesses. As well, remember to find your pet's medical records along with proof of rabies shots.
