Tips for Dealing with a Neighbor's Aggressive Dog

Virginia dog bite lawyerIn a perfect world, our neighbor’s dogs would be friendly, docile – and properly restrained. Unfortunately, though people have a variety of views and opinions on whether dogs should – or shouldn’t – be able to roam. If you have a neighbor who lets their dangerous dog run loose, it can be terrifying to even leave the house.

No one should be made to feel a prisoner of their own home, nor should they feel fearful when walking in their neighborhood. There are key steps you can take to rectify the problem and keep yourself safe.

1. Be Neighborly, Express Your Concerns.

If you offer a reasonable request, most people will offer a reasonable solution. That’s why it’s so important to address your concerns calmly but firmly. Explain your problem with the dog in a friendly way and remind your neighbor of local laws.

2. Check the Virginia Dangerous Dog Registry.

When a local court declares an animal dangerous, this information is recorded online in the Virginia Dangerous Dog Registry. This public, searchable database allows users to determine if dangerous dogs live nearby. Though not every dangerous canine might have made the list, the information provided can give you insight into a given animal’s legal history.

3. Gather Evidence and Identify Witnesses.

Chances are, you’re not the only one dealing with the local vicious dog. Keep an eye out for the way pedestrians and your neighbors interact with the pooch. If they exhibit body language that lead you believe they’re fearful of the dog – crossing the street to avoid an interaction, or freezing on the spot when the animal approaches – reach out to them about your own experiences. It’s always reassuring to know you’re not alone in your fears, and you could gain helpful allies.

4. Report Your Concerns to Animal Control.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local animal control department about the animal or pet owner in question. By alerting them to a potential problem, they may be able to help nip things in the bud before an attack happens.

5. If You’ve Been Injured, Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer.

Seek medical attention, report the attack to the authorities, and then call an attorney. The sooner you do so, the sooner the investigation can begin. Proof is highly essential for obtaining the highest possible settlement or verdict for your case.

Virginia Dog Bite Lawyers

Virginia dog bite lawyer Richard SerpeIf you’d like to discuss your situation with one of our Virginia dog bite lawyers, give us a call to set up an appointment. The consultation is free and there is no obligation. If you do decide to retain us to represent you, we have a no fee promise – you pay no legal fees unless we settle or win your case.

Attorney Richard Serpe is a highly skilled trial attorney with a reputation for meticulous trial preparation and presentation. He has a tremendous track record of success in obtaining substantial jury verdicts and settlements for his clients. A substantial portion of his career has been devoted to the representation of injured children.

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