Community in Massachusetts Living in Fear of Pit Bull Attacks

Pet ownership brings joy to many people and families. But unfortunately, there are also many reports of dogs hurting and injuring people, strangers and family members alike. Statistics maintained by the website, dogsbite.org, indicate that each day, approximately 1,000 people in the United States require emergency care treatment for a dog bite injury. This translates to a one in 50 chance of being bitten by a dog. People who have been the victim of a dog bite may suffer physical and psychological injuries to varying degrees. The good news is, the injured person may be entitled to compensation for their suffering and losses. It is important for those who have bitten by a dog to contact a local Cape Cod injury attorney with experience handling such cases.

Notably, according to the above-referenced website, between 2005 and 2012, two dog breeds accounted for 73% of the attacks that resulted in death: pit bull and rottweiler. And just recently, in the town of Wakefield, Massachusetts, a dog attack by a Pit Bull has garnered a great deal of attention by members of the community and local government. In what has been described as a terrifying encounter with two aggressive and vicious dogs, a grandfather was walking his dog while pushing his grandson in a stroller when the two animals charged at them at full speed.

In an effort to protect the child and his dog from the attacking animals, the grandfather picked up, and raised the dog over his head and stood in front of the child in the stroller. After doing so, the dogs began jumping, trying to bite at his dog. The grandfather described the pit bull as being the more aggressive dog. He received seven puncture wounds on his upper and lower body. Fortunately, a neighbor walking by and was able to bring them into the development’s clubhouse. The grandfather was taken to a nearby hospital where he received stitches.

The incident was brought before the local Board of Selectmen. In such situations, the selectmen must determine if the animal is a nuisance or a danger to the community before deciding on any potential penalties. Apparently, this particular dog has been described as a “repeat offender.” The Board decided that the pet’s owners have a limited amount of time to take action to remedy the situation. This means that the owners must: 1) erect a fence and an adjoining pen, 2) install spring-loaded mechanisms on front and back doors to their home, 3) the dogs must be on a leash at all times, and 4) when the dogs are outside of the home, they must wear a muzzle.

This is an example of a terrifying dog bite attack. In Massachusetts, dog owners are strictly liable for bites, meaning that when a person’s dog bites someone else, the owner is legally responsible. This responsibility extends to coverage of medical bills related to physical injuries, but also to any emotional or psychological damages. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation. A local injury attorney can help with your case to achieve the best possible settlement under the circumstances.

Local attorney, John C. Manoog III, has extensive experience helping parties in dog bite cases in Cape Cod. For a free initial consultation, call the office at 888-262-6664 or reach us by email. There is always someone available to talk to you about your case.

Related Blog Posts: Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Could Limit Animal Liability Coverage for Dog Bite Claims Dog Bite Cases Can Cause Life-Threatening Injuries; Even Death Woman Loses Three Limbs From Infection After Dog Bite