The aftermath of a dog attack can be a confusing and stressful time. Beyond the physical injuries, the emotional shock can be overwhelming. Knowing who to contact and what steps to take is crucial. This article explores the role of Animal Control in Ontario after a dog attack, outlining what actions they might take and how you can follow up with them.
The Immediate Response: Prioritizing Safety and Medical Attention
The first and most important priority after a dog attack is ensuring your safety and the safety of others. If the dog is still present, attempt to move to a safe location. Bystanders can try to distract the dog with loud noises or objects, but never attempt to intervene directly.
Step One: Seeking Medical Attention
Regardless of the severity of the injuries, seek medical attention immediately. Getting treated at a hospital or urgent care center ensures proper wound care, documentation of the injuries, and a record of the attack for future reference.
Step Two: Contacting Emergency Services
In certain situations, immediate contact with emergency services may be necessary (see previous article for details).
Reporting the Attack: Animal Control as Your Primary Contact
Once medical attention has been addressed, reporting the dog attack to Animal Control is vital. They are responsible for investigating the incident and taking necessary actions to address potential threats posed by the dog.
What Happens After You Report a Dog Attack?
Upon receiving your report, Animal Control will initiate an investigation. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Fact-Finding: Animal control officers will contact you to gather detailed information about the incident. Be prepared to answer questions about the dog’s description, the sequence of events, and any witnesses present.
- Witness Interviews: Animal control officers might interview any bystanders who witnessed the attack to corroborate your account and gather additional details.
- Scene Assessment: Depending on the circumstances, animal control officers might visit the location of the attack to assess the environment and gather any relevant evidence. This might involve looking for leash laws signage or interviewing neighbors familiar with the dog.
- Dog Evaluation: Animal control will likely take steps to assess the dog involved in the attack. This might involve:
- Physical Examination: A veterinarian might examine the dog to ensure its health and check for any signs of illness or aggression.
- Behavior Evaluation: An animal control officer or a qualified animal behaviorist might assess the dog’s temperament and behavior through controlled interactions.
Potential Actions Taken by Animal Control
Based on their investigation, animal control can take various actions to address the situation and prevent future attacks. Here are some possibilities:
- Fines: Dog owners found to be in violation of leash laws or municipal animal control bylaws (e.g., not having the dog vaccinated) can face fines.
- Muzzle Orders: If the dog poses a potential threat based on the evaluation, animal control might require the owner to muzzle the dog whenever in public spaces.
- Training Requirements: The owner might be mandated to complete obedience training with their dog to address any behavioral issues identified during the evaluation.
- Quarantine: If there are concerns about rabies or other diseases, the dog might be quarantined for observation at an animal control facility.
- Seizure and Euthanasia: In severe cases, particularly involving repeat offenses or attacks causing serious injuries, animal control might seize the dog and consider euthanasia. This decision would likely involve a formal hearing and would be based on a comprehensive risk assessment.
Following Up with Animal Control
While the investigation is ongoing, it’s important to stay informed about the progress. Here’s how you can follow up with Animal Control:
- Contact Information: Obtain the name and contact information of the animal control officer assigned to your case.
- Phone Calls or Emails: Maintain periodic contact with the officer to inquire about the investigation’s progress and any potential outcomes.
- Documentation: Keep copies of all reports, emails, or other documentation received from Animal Control for your records.
Additional Considerations
Here are some additional points to keep in mind:
- Legal Representation: If you are considering pursuing legal action against the dog owner, consulting with a lawyer experienced in dog bite laws can be helpful. They can advise you on your options and navigate the legal process.
- Insurance Claims: Depending on your situation, you might need to file a claim with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance to cover medical expenses or property damage.
- Emotional Support: Dog attacks can be emotionally traumatic. Consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor to cope with the emotional impact of the event.