What if a neighbor's dog bites me?

If you are bitten by a neighbor’s dog in Massachusetts, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. It is important that you document your injury, as well as the dog’s vaccination records and the contact information for the dog’s owner. After seeking professional medical attention, it is advisable to file a complaint with the local Board of Health so that they can investigate the incident. This is an important step, as it will provide evidence that the dog’s owner did not take proper precautions to prevent the bite. In Massachusetts, dog owners are liable for all damages caused by their pets. This includes medical bills, lost wages, and other costs related to the bite. Additionally, the owner may be held liable for punitive damages if they were negligent in taking care of their pet. If the dog’s owner is unwilling to settle the matter on their own, you should consider filing a lawsuit. However, it is important to seek legal advice from an experienced lawyer to ensure that you understand the potential risks and consequences of filing a suit. In addition to taking legal action, you can also take steps to make sure that the same incident does not happen to someone else. Notifying your local animal control office of the incident may result in the dog being taken away or the owner being issued a warning. It will also help ensure that the owner is more cautious with their pet in the future.

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What if a neighbor's dog bites me?

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