Loose Dogs Bite Jogger in Elk Grove

Police officers were forced to shoot and kill two aggressive dogs running loose in Elk Grove after they reportedly attacked and injured a jogger. According to a CBS13 news report, the incident occurred along the 9400 block of Misty River Way. Police say an animal service officer responded to the scene after a jogger reported being attacked by a couple of dogs. The dogs – both German Shepherds – began to bark, bare their teeth and charged at the officer.

Officers initially attempted to use a beanbag shotgun to get the dogs under control. But, seeing that it had no effect and due to the continuing threat to the public, officials said, they then shot one of the dogs. The other dog was also soon shot and both animals died from their injuries. The jogger was bitten on the left calf. He is said to be recovering. Police are also looking into whether the same dogs were responsible for two other attacks on animals that same day.

Dog Bite Statistics

Each day about 1,000 U.S. citizens require emergency care treatment for serious dog bite injuries. Annually, about 9,500 citizens are hospitalized due to dog bite injuries. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one in five of all dog bites become infected. Among children, the rate of dog-bite–related injuries is highest for those 5 to 9 years old. Children are more likely than adults to receive medical attention for dog bites.

California in particular has seen a rise in dog bites, especially in the last 11 years. The Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development states that between 2005 and 2010, California saw a total of 181,618 people visit the emergency department for dog bites. However, just in the past five years (from 2011 to 2015), the total of dog bite cases in the emergency room was 187,448.

If You Have Been Bitten

If a dog has bitten you, there are a number of steps you can take to safeguard your well being and your legal rights:

• Get prompt medical attention, treatment and care for your injuries. If you are bleeding, go to an emergency room right away.
• Try to preserve as much evidence from the scene. Get contact information for anyone who may have witnessed the dog attack. Save all physical evidence including torn and bloody clothing.
• Try to obtain information for the dog owner so you can get other information such as the dog’s license and registration, if it’s had any prior history of attacks, etc.
• Contact an experienced Sacramento dog bite lawyer who will fight to protect your rights and hold the negligent dog owner responsible.

California has a strict liability statute when it comes to dog attacks, which means dog owners can be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses their pets cause regardless of whether the animals have previously attacked and regardless of whether the attack occurs on public or private property. Victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of cosmetic surgery, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Call the Demas Law Group P.C., at (916) 444-0100 to find out how we can help you.