Learn New Jersey Laws About Dog Bites

Like most states, New Jersey has  specific laws regarding dog bites.  The New Jersey Department of Health, Office of Animal Welfare has assembled these laws and regulations in one place.  They are the agency in charge of ensuring dogs are properly licensed and inoculated against rabies.  All reports of dog bites are submitted to this agency.  In certain instances, it is necessary that animals are put down because of their violent propensities.

When a person it bit by a dog and brings a lawsuit, the defense may try to say that the individual should have known the dog had violent tendencies.  Some will imply that this information is inferred by breed.  According to a study performed by the American Veterinary Medical Journal, below are the ten most breeds likely to be dangerous.  Some of them may seem surprising.

• Bernard
• Great Dane
• Chow-Chow
• Doberman
• Malamute
• Wolf-Dog Hybrid
• Husky
• German Shepherd
• Rottweiler
• Pit Bull

Although the defense may bring the breed of dog up as an issue, the breed also places a greater responsibility on the dog owner.  The dog owner is expected to take care that the animal is controlled.  This includes keeping the animal on a leash or confined to a certain area.  In some instances, dog owners may be expected to put a muzzle on their pet.

According to the Center for Disease Control, there are nearly 4.5 million dog bites each year.  Of course, this does not include people who dismiss their injuries and attempt to self-treat them.  Dog bites can be extremely painful, can become infected and cause residual scarring.  The severity of the bite should be evaluated by a medical professional.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries as a result of a dog bite, it is important to also consider legal counsel.  Determine your right to recover benefits.  The Law Offices of Anthony Carbone has several years of experience handling these types of cases.  Contact us for a free consultation.

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