Arlington Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog ownership is common throughout Arlington, from the tree-lined streets of Dalworthington Gardens to the bustling neighborhoods near AT&T Stadium. While most dogs are well-trained companions, not every interaction ends safely. Dog bites can happen suddenly during a walk in River Legacy Park, a backyard barbecue, or even while visiting a friend’s home, and the physical and emotional injuries they cause can be devastating.

At Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys, we understand the shock and confusion that follow a dog attack. Our Arlington dog bite lawyers are ready to fight for your rights, handle the insurance companies, and help you recover the compensation you need to move forward.

Dog Bites Cause Serious Injuries

Each year, nearly 800,000 dog bite victims in the U.S. require professional medical care, according to the CDC. In a growing, active city like Arlington, where parks, trails, and family activities bring people and pets together daily, dog bite risks are very real.

Common injuries resulting from dog attacks include:

• Deep lacerations and puncture wounds
• Torn tendons, ligaments, or nerve damage
• Bone fractures or crushed joints
• Infections such as MRSA, Capnocytophaga, and rabies
• Permanent scarring, facial disfigurement that may require plastic surgery, and impairment
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety, in both adults and children

Beyond the immediate pain and medical bills, dog attacks often leave lasting emotional scars that can disrupt your quality of life and mental health. It’s best to seek the help you need when navigating through this difficult time period.

You can contact us today by calling (940) 800-2500. Our Arlington dog injury attorneys are here to guide you through this process so that you can focus on healing and recovering from your serious dog bite injuries.

Texas Law on Dog Bites: How It Applies in Arlington

Texas does not have a dog-bite-specific statute. Instead, Arlington follows the “One Bite Rule” combined with negligence standards recognized by the Texas Supreme Court.

You may have a valid claim if:

• The dog had shown aggressive behavior before, and the owner knew or should have known it posed a risk (strict liability).
• The owner was negligent, such as by allowing the dog to roam freely around parks like Cravens Park, Bowman Springs Park, or neighborhood sidewalks in Southwest Arlington.

Negligence might include failing to leash a dog as required by Arlington’s animal ordinances, not securing a known-aggressive dog in a yard, or failing to warn guests about potential risks.

What Happens To The Dog After a Bite Is Reported?

A common concern we hear from clients is whether filing a dog bite report or claim means the dog will automatically be euthanized. The answer is no, and it’s important to know the facts.

In Arlington:

• Animal Services investigates any reported bites and checks the dog’s vaccination history.
• If there’s a rabies concern, the dog is quarantined for 10 days either at home or at a designated facility. The dog is typically returned back to the owner after this observation period. 
• If a dog is deemed dangerous based on its actions or history, the owner must comply with strict containment requirements under city law—including proper enclosures, warning signage, and liability insurance.

Euthanasia only occurs in very rare cases involving confirmed rabies, repeated violent attacks, or when public safety demands it. Filing a claim does not automatically put the animal’s life at risk. If euthanasia is a possibility, it is typically the dog owner’s decision and not a government entity. 

How Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys Can Help You After a Dog Bite in Arlington, TX

Dog bite claims can quickly become complex. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, deny liability, or shift blame onto the victim. You need a legal team that understands how to build a strong case under Texas law—and one that knows how to win.

When you hire Chandler Ross:

• We investigate thoroughly, collecting medical records, animal control reports, eyewitness statements, and the dog’s history.
• We prove negligence or dangerous behavior, ensuring the owner’s accountability.
• We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to demand full compensation.
• We prepare every case for trial, even if we ultimately settle so insurers know we’re serious.
• You owe nothing unless we win; our work is 100% contingency-based.

Our goal is simple: Maximize your compensation while you focus on healing. While the insurance company’s lawyers are focused on their bottom line, we’re focused on your future and making sure you get the compensation you deserve to move forward from your injury.

Damages You Can Recover After a Dog Attack

Depending on the severity of your injuries and the long-term impact, we can help you recover:

• Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, and physical therapy
• Future anticipated healthcare costs
• Lost wages or lost future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement
• Emotional trauma and mental health treatment

In many cases, the dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy covers these damages. 

What To Do Immediately After a Dog Bite in Arlington

Taking the right steps after a dog attack can protect your health and your legal rights.

1. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Seek immediate medical attention even if the wound appears minor.
3. Obtain information from the dog owner, including their name, contact details, and the dog’s vaccination status.
4. File a report with Arlington Animal Services.
5. Take photographs of your injuries, torn clothing, and the scene.
6. Contact Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys for a free case evaluation.

Documentation and early legal guidance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arlington Dog Bite Injuries

Will filing a lawsuit mean the dog will be euthanized?

No. Investigations focus on public health and safety, not punishment. Most dogs return to their owners under stricter rules. Only in rare circumstances is a dog considered to be euthanized, such as if evidence of rabies is present. The rare times where euthanasia is considered, it is typically left up to the dog owner to decide on this. 

What if the dog has no history of aggression?

You may still recover compensation if the dog owner was negligent, for example, allowing the dog off-leash in public spaces or failing to control it properly. If an owner was aware of their dog’s tendencies and behaviors, they could face a lawsuit. 

Is there a time limit to file a dog bite claim?

Yes. Texas has a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit.

What if I was bitten at a friend’s or relative’s home?

You can still file a claim. In most cases, homeowners’ or renters’ insurance covers the damages without requiring your friend or relative to pay out of pocket.