My Child Was Bitten by a Dog: What You Should Do Next
Few moments are more terrifying for a parent than seeing their child hurt—especially when it happens suddenly and unexpectedly. One moment you’re enjoying a walk in the neighborhood or a visit to a friend’s home, and the next, your child is crying, bleeding, and scared after being bitten by a dog.
Dog bites involving children are unfortunately common, and they often leave more than just physical injuries. Parents are left with fear, anger, medical bills, and difficult questions: Did I do something wrong? Who is responsible? What do I do now?
At Narvios Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be. This guide walks you through exactly what to do after a dog bite, how to protect your child’s health and legal rights, and when it may be time to speak with a lawyer.
Why Dog Bites Are Especially Dangerous for Children
Children are more vulnerable to serious injuries from dog bites for several reasons:
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Their smaller size makes it easier for dogs to reach the face, neck, and hands
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They may not recognize warning signs of aggression
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Injuries often require stitches or reconstructive care
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Emotional trauma can last long after the physical wounds heal
Even a bite that seems “minor” at first can lead to infection, scarring, or long-term psychological effects like anxiety or fear of animals.
Step 1: Get Immediate Medical Attention
Your first priority should always be your child’s health.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Go to the emergency room or urgent care immediately if:
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The bite breaks the skin
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There is heavy bleeding
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The bite is on the face, head, neck, or hands
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Your child is in significant pain
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The dog’s vaccination status is unknown
Doctors may need to:
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Clean and disinfect the wound
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Administer stitches
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Prescribe antibiotics
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Evaluate the need for rabies or tetanus shots
Important tip: Always follow up with your child’s pediatrician, even if emergency care was provided. Documenting ongoing care is critical.
Step 2: Identify the Dog and Its Owner
If it is safe to do so, gather information about the dog and its owner:
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Owner’s name and contact information
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Dog’s breed and description
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Vaccination records, especially rabies
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Address where the dog lives
If the dog was a stray or the owner refuses to cooperate, make note of where the incident occurred and any witnesses who saw what happened.
Step 3: Report the Dog Bite
In Texas, dog bites should be reported to local animal control or law enforcement, especially when a child is involved.
Reporting helps:
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Create an official record of the incident
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Determine whether the dog has bitten before
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Protect other children from future attacks
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Support any future insurance or legal claim
Animal control may quarantine the dog to monitor for rabies or dangerous behavior.
Step 4: Document Everything
Thorough documentation can make a huge difference later.
What to Document
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Photos of the bite immediately after the incident
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Photos of healing progress and any scarring
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Medical records and bills
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Prescription costs
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Missed school days
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Emotional changes in your child
Real-life example: A parent may not realize how impactful a dog bite was until weeks later when their child refuses to go outside or panics around animals. These emotional effects matter and should be documented.
Understanding Dog Bite Liability in Texas
Texas does not have a simple “one-bite rule.” Instead, liability often depends on:
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Whether the dog had a history of aggression
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Whether the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous
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Whether the owner failed to properly restrain the dog
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Where the incident occurred (public place vs. private property)
Dog owners have a responsibility to control their pets and prevent foreseeable harm—especially around children.
Common Places Dog Bites Happen
Dog bites involving children frequently occur:
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At a neighbor’s home
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At parks or playgrounds
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During family gatherings
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While walking in residential neighborhoods
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On the dog owner’s property
Many parents are shocked to learn that the dog involved belonged to someone they knew or trusted.
Step 5: Be Careful With Insurance Companies
After a dog bite, the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance may get involved. While this can help cover medical expenses, insurance companies are not on your side.
Be cautious:
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Do not give recorded statements without legal advice
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Do not accept quick settlement offers
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Do not downplay your child’s injuries
Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize compensation by suggesting the child provoked the dog or that injuries are minor.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Child Dog Bite
A dog bite case involving a child is not just about medical bills—it’s about your child’s future.
At Narvios Law Firm, we help families by:
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Investigating the incident thoroughly
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Gathering medical and behavioral evidence
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Handling all communication with insurance companies
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Calculating long-term costs, including scarring and emotional trauma
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Fighting for fair compensation so parents can focus on healing
Legal support can be especially important when injuries involve the face, require surgery, or result in lasting emotional effects.
Compensation That May Be Available
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:
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Emergency and ongoing medical care
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Future plastic or reconstructive surgery
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Counseling or therapy
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Pain and suffering
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Scarring and disfigurement
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Emotional distress
Every case is unique, especially when a child’s well-being is involved.
Helping Your Child Heal Emotionally
Physical wounds often heal faster than emotional ones. After a dog bite, children may:
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Develop nightmares
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Become fearful of animals
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Avoid outdoor activities
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Show signs of anxiety or withdrawal
Consider:
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Talking openly and calmly with your child
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Reassuring them that the incident was not their fault
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Seeking counseling if fear persists
Emotional healing is just as important as physical recovery.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
If your child was bitten by a dog, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, angry, or unsure of what to do next. Taking the right steps early—medically, emotionally, and legally—can make a meaningful difference in your child’s recovery and future.
If you have questions or concerns about your child’s dog bite injury, contact Narvios Law Firm today. We’re here to listen, guide you through your options, and fight for the care and justice your child deserves.