A dog bite can be a serious problem for a Massachusetts resident

Dogs come in a variety of shapes and sizes; some dogs are large with short fur, and other dogs are small with long, flowing fur. While many dogs throughout Massachusetts are friendly and love to be around people and other animals, some dogs are aggressive and pose a threat to those around them. Regardless of the size of the dog, a dog bite can have serious medical and emotional ramifications.

While most dogs are friendly and will not attack, media reports of dog bites are all too common. For this reason, it is always a good idea to ask the dog’s owner if the dog is friendly and likes to be petted before approaching it. Additionally, it is best to be wary of unknown dogs. Reports indicate that children can be bitten as they play with a neighbor’s dog. Others are attacked by unfamiliar dogs that run up on them playing outside.

Recently, a woman took her small dog for a walk along the street. While they were walking, a large dog charged toward them and attacked both the woman and her dog. Fortunately, there were construction workers nearby who were able to come to their rescue. Police are currently looking for the large dog’s owner in an attempt to verify that its vaccinations are up to date. As a result of the bites the woman suffered, if these vaccinations cannot be verified, she will likely need to undergo rabies shots.

A dog bite can have lasting effects on both children and adults. If a Massachusetts resident becomes the victim of a dog bite attack, he or she will first want to seek medical attention. It is also likely that the individual will want to explore available legal options to aid in his or her financial, emotional and medical recovery.

Source: kimt.com, “Woman bit by large dog in Rochester”, MyKayla Hilgart, Aug. 30, 2016D