Address medical and reporting needs
Seek appropriate care and follow public-health guidance. Preserve photographs, treatment records, animal-control or police references, and the information provided about the animal.
Identify owner, keeper, handler, and place
Record who owned or controlled the animal, where the encounter occurred, why each person was there, any leash or enclosure, witnesses, and property-control information.
Avoid relying on a one-bite slogan
States use different statutes and common-law rules involving bites, other animal conduct, lawful presence, knowledge, negligence, defenses, working dogs, and local ordinances.
Ask about records and coverage
Prior reports, veterinary and licensing information, property or renter coverage, business or event records, and witness accounts may matter. Access must be lawful and relevant.