4.5 Million Dog Bites a Year—How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones After a Dog Attacks

Dear Reader,

Picture this: You’re at a neighborhood park, enjoying a sunny afternoon. Kids are laughing, people are chatting, and the air is filled with the scent of fresh grass. Suddenly, out of nowhere, you hear a growl. Before you can react, a dog—once the picture of loyalty and playfulness—lunges, teeth bared, right at you or, worse, at your child. In that split second, everything changes. The joy, the safety, the peace of mind—all replaced by sheer terror and pain.

Dogs are often called man’s best friend, but in moments like this, they can become a nightmare. A loyal companion can turn into a fierce attacker with no warning. Even the most loving pets can be unpredictable, lashing out when they feel threatened or startled. And when they do, the injuries can be devastating.

According to the CDC, dog bites happen more often than you might think—over 4.5 million times a year in the United States. That’s 4.5 million moments of pain, fear, and, for many, lifelong trauma. Children, especially, are at risk. Their innocence and excitement often lead them to approach dogs too quickly, unknowingly invading their space. When a dog feels cornered or scared, it reacts—sometimes with deadly force.

Sometimes, a dog breaks free from its leash, or an aggressive dog escapes from its yard, and in those terrifying moments, there’s little you can do but try to protect yourself. The injuries from these attacks aren’t just skin deep—they can lead to severe infections, disfigurement, and even permanent disability. The psychological scars can last a lifetime, overshadowing what should be happy memories.

If you or someone you love is ever on the receiving end of a dog’s teeth, there are critical steps you need to take—starting with seeking immediate medical attention. Even a small bite can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. A doctor will clean the wound, assess the risk of infection, and make sure you’re safe from further harm.

After that, you need to gather as much information as possible about the incident. Who owns the dog? Were there any witnesses? Every detail matters.

Your next step is to call my office at 703-761-4343 or 301-949-1515. You see, not all dog bites are just accidents. Sometimes, they’re the result of negligence—an owner who failed to properly restrain their pet or didn’t take the necessary precautions to prevent an attack. If that’s the case, they can and should be held responsible for the injuries you’ve suffered.

My team will fight for your rights. We’re here to make sure you receive the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries, your medical bills, and the time you’ve lost.

Until next time, stay safe, stay vigilant, and remember—never let your guard down, whether on the road or around someone else’s pet.

Sincerely,

Paul Samakow

Attorney Paul Samakow

703-761-4343 or 301-949-1515