What should I do if my dog or cat is attacked by a dog?
What should I do if my dog or cat is attacked by a dog?
If your pet has been injured in an attack by another dog, we understand this can be a stressful and emotional experience. This guide provides helpful information on what to do immediately following the incident, how to report it, and what your next steps may be under Ohio law.
1. Ensure Safety First
- Separate the animals safely if the attack is still in progress. Avoid putting yourself in harm’s way.
- Secure your pet and remove them from the area.
- Seek veterinary care immediately—even small wounds can become infected or conceal internal injuries.
- If a person has been bitten, a wound caused by a dog or cat’s mouth where the skin has been broken, make sure they receive proper medical care and that the bite is reported to the board of health. (see our section on dog bites).
- Keep any collars, tags, photos or video that help identify the attacking dog if it fled.
2. Gather Information
If possible, collect:
- The name and address of the attacking dog’s owner (if known) or where the attacking dog came from – a yard, a house, etc…
- Description of the attacking dog (breed, color, size, distinguishing marks)
- Location, date, and time of the incident
- Photos of injuries, the scene, and any damage
- Names and contact information of witnesses
This information will assist you in reporting the incident.
3. Reporting the Incident
You should report the attack as soon as possible. In some cases an online report is sufficient while in other cases where severe injuries or the death of a dog or cat occurred, an investigation may be warranted.
Cincinnati Animal Care Reporting a Bite or call at: 513-541-7387
Cincinnati Health Department Technical Environmental Services at: 513-352-2922
Hamilton County Health Department at: 513-946-7800.
4. Understanding Ohio Law
Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 955.28 states:
- A dog’s owner, keeper, or harborer is liable for injury, death, or loss to a person or another animal caused by their dog, except in cases of trespassing or provocation.
- Depending on the severity and history, the attacking dog may be designated as a “dangerous dog” or “vicious dog.”
- Owners of such dogs designated as dangerous or vicious are required to comply with special containment, insurance, and registration requirements.
See the designations listed below:
Nuisance Dog
Subject to 955.11(a)(3)(b), nuisance dog means a dog that without provocation and while off the premises of its owner, keeper, or harborer has chased or approached a person in either a menacing fashion or an apparent attitude of attack or has attempted to bite or otherwise endanger any person.
Dangerous Dog
Subject to 955.11(a)(1)(b), dangerous dog means a dog that, without provocation, has done any of the following:
- (i) Caused injury, other than killing or serious injury, to any person
- (ii) Killed another dog
- (iii) Been the subject of a third or subsequent violation of division (c) of section 955.22 of the revised code
Vicious Dog
Subject to 955.11(a)(6)(b), vicious dog means a dog that, without provocation, has killed or caused serious injury to any person.
- Depending on the severity and history, the attacking dog may be designated as a “dangerous dog” or “vicious dog.”
- Owners of such dogs designated as dangerous or vicious are required to comply with special containment, insurance, and registration requirements.
If criminal or civil action is warranted, your local authorities will explain the appropriate next steps.
5. After the Report
Once reported, an officer will:
- Review the report
- Determine whether citations or charges are appropriate
- Notify you of any court proceedings or restitution options
If your pet requires ongoing medical care, keep all veterinary invoices and records. You may use these to seek reimbursement or restitution through the court if charges are filed. You may also choose to take your own action and handle the case civilly.
6. Preventing Future Incidents
- Avoid known aggressive dogs and areas where they are frequently off-leash.
- Always leash your pet when off your property.
- Be aware of your surroundings when out walking with your dog
- Report loose or aggressive dogs immediately to your local Dog Warden.
- Ensure your own dog is properly licensed, vaccinated, and socialized.
7. Emotional Support
Witnessing your pet in distress can be traumatic. Take care of yourself, and consider reaching out to your veterinarian, a counselor, or local pet loss support groups if you’re struggling after the incident.
For More Information or Assistance:
Cincinnati Animal CARE – Field Services Division
3949 Colerain Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45223
(513) 541-7387 | [email protected]
cincinnatianimalcare.org
