Care for the Wound First
Dog bites carry infection risk, so clean the wound and seek medical care promptly — some bites require stitches, antibiotics, or rabies evaluation. Documenting the medical treatment also establishes the severity of the injury for any claim.
Report and Identify
Report the bite to local animal control, which creates an official record and helps confirm the dog's vaccination status. Identify the dog's owner and get their contact and, if possible, insurance information. Gather names of any witnesses.
Document Everything
Photograph the injuries soon after the bite and as they heal, since scarring is a key element of damages. Note where the bite happened and the circumstances. New Hampshire's strict liability law means you generally don't have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous, but documentation strengthens the claim's value.
Know Your Rights
Most dog bite claims are paid through the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance. Compensation can include medical care, reconstructive surgery, scarring, and pain and suffering. A free review can help you understand what your claim may be worth.
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This article is general information, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, get a free, confidential case review. You pay nothing unless you win.
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