Following the initial shock of being bitten by someone else's dog, you should take certain steps if you are able to do so after the dog bite. The information that you are able to gather can be useful when interacting with a doctor after the incident and if you need to file a personal injury case due to your injuries and medical expenses. Here are the types of information that you should be sure to gather following the incident.

Basic Information About the Dog Owner

If the dog is on a leash or someone claims the dog, you want to obtain basic information about the dog owner. Some of the information you want to obtain is their first and last name, their cell phone number, and their address. Try to see and get an ID or driver's license number as well, to ensure the person is not lying about who they are. If possible, also ask for information about the dog. Ask for the dog's name, what breed of dog it is, and if you live in a county where dogs are required to be licensed, what the dog's license number is. 

The Shot Record For the Dog

When you are speaking with the owner of the dog, be sure to ask for a copy of the shot record. If they do not have it immediately available, ask them if their dog is up to date on the rabies shot and ask for a copy of that record as soon as they are able to provide it. If they cannot provide it, ask them for their vet information. Having this information will alter the course of treatment you will receive for a dog bite at the hospital or from your doctors. 

Witness Information

If any witnesses saw the incident occur, be sure to get their information. This includes their name, address, and phone number. You want to ensure that they can corroborate your story in case the owner tries to blame you for the incident that left you being bitten. 

Photographs of the Scene, the Dog Bite, and the Dog Itself

Lastly, take out your phone and snap shots of the scene where you were bitten, the dog bite itself, and photos of the dog, if possible. All of this information can be vital if your case goes to trial and can be useful in identifying the dog that bit you in case the owner tries to claim it was not their dog that bit you. 

If you have been bit by a dog and sustained an injury or permanent disfigurement, you may be able to file a personal injury case against the owner of the dog and/or the party who was responsible for the dog at the time of the attack, such as a dog walker. A personal injury law firm can help you determine if you have a case. Obtaining the information above is the best way to help document what has happened and help to prove your case. 

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