It is estimated that dogs kill nearly 20 Americans each year. Children make up the overwhelming majority of these attacks, as 80% of the nearly 5 million victims of dog attacks are under the age of 18. Children often look at dogs as friendly playmates rather than the dangerous aggressors that many can be. Some breeds of dogs can actually view children as threats or even potential prey, while other breeds have herding instincts so ingrained that the responses they use to move livestock are dangerous to children who do not understand their dog's motives.

Dog attacks have been on the rise since the late 1970's. Furthermore, there are now more than 65 million dogs in the United States, and each year more and more people bring potentially dangerous animals into their homes, unaware of the risks they present. While many people have the best intention of raising a stable, safe, and happy pet, the reality is that any dog can become a vicious predator in the right circumstances.

Almost 1,000 people will need to seek emergency medical attention today because of dog bites. These attacks do not only cause physical pain and discomfort, they can also psychologically scar the victim for years to come. Because dogs are such popular house pets, victims of dog attacks can suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder so acute that they cannot interact with any canine in any situation.

Dog attacks cost the American people over $1 billion each year in medical bills, lost work, and increased insurance premiums. Homeowners and other types of insurance can cover some of the damages caused by a dog attack, but over 2/3s of the cost of the attacks is usually paid out by the owner of the offending dog, if it is paid at all. Dog attack lawsuits can help victims recover the damages caused by a dog

If you or someone you love was the victim of a dog attack, you need to contact a dog attack attorney immediately. You may have the right to seek financial compensation for your injuries, but if you let California statute of limitations of your case elapse you may lose your ability to take legal action. Consult a dog attack lawyer today.