Summer in Denton means more time outside—kids riding bikes through Quakertown Park and McKenna Park, families picnicking at North Lakes Park, and dogs tagging along for the fun. But with all this freedom and sunshine comes an often-overlooked risk: dog bites.
When the weather warms up, doors are left open, pets roam a little more freely, and kids naturally want to play with any friendly-looking dog they see. Unfortunately, that friendly dog can get startled or feel threatened in a split second. Every year, millions of people are bitten by dogs in the U.S., and many of them are young children—often under the age of 12.
That’s why it’s so important to stay alert, teach kids how to approach dogs safely, and understand your rights if something goes wrong. Whether you’re out for a walk or hosting a barbecue, knowing the risks—and how to reduce them—can help keep everyone safe this summer. Knowing where these incidents can occur and how to manage them carefully can help you prepare for the unexpected.
Texas Ranks #2 for Dog Bites: A Call for Awareness and Action
According to the U.S. Postal Service, Texas recorded 368 dog bite incidents in 2022 and 404 incidents in 2023. The trend continued into 2024, with Texas reporting 438 incidents, maintaining its #2 ranking.
These figures highlight a pressing need for vigilance and proactive measures across all communities in Texas. Whether you’re at a local park, visiting friends, or spending time in public spaces, staying alert to potential dog-related threats is crucial, especially during summer when outdoor activities increase.
If you were bitten by a dog recently, contact us today. Your initial consultation is free and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Enjoying Denton’s Dog-Friendly Parks: How to Stay Safe While Having Fun
Denton’s parks—like North Lakes, Denia Park, and the ever-popular Wiggly Field Dog Park—are perfect spots to stretch your legs, let the kids play, and give your pup some time to roam. Whether you’re going for a stroll, tossing a ball, or watching your dog make new furry friends, these green spaces make summer days feel even better.
But with more people and pets out and about, it’s important to keep safety top of mind. A few simple steps can go a long way:
- Keep your dog leashed in shared spaces (unless you’re in a designated off-leash area)
- Always close gates behind you at home or at the park
- Teach kids how to respectfully approach dogs they don’t know
- Watch your dog’s body language—if they seem overwhelmed or tense, take a break
Denton has clear leash laws and rules about where dogs can go off-leash, especially in public parks. These aren’t just suggestions—they’re designed to keep everyone safe, whether you’re walking solo, with your pet, or around young children.
And don’t forget: summer brings bigger crowds and more stimulation for pets. Even the friendliest dog can get nervous or reactive in unfamiliar or busy environments. Staying alert, recognizing early signs of stress or agitation in your dog (or someone else’s), and giving plenty of space can help avoid accidents before they happen.
What To Do After a Dog Attack: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting bitten or attacked by a dog—whether you’re at the park, walking through your neighborhood, or visiting a friend—can be incredibly scary and overwhelming. In those first few moments, it’s hard to know what to do. That’s why being prepared can make all the difference in protecting your health and your rights.
1. Prioritize Your Safety
If a dog becomes aggressive, try to stay calm. Don’t run or scream—that can make things worse. Instead, put something between you and the dog if possible—like a jacket, purse, or even a bike. If you’re knocked down, curl into a ball and protect your head and neck.
2. Get Medical Help—Even for Minor Bites
It might not look serious at first, but dog bites can easily lead to infection or complications. Go to urgent care or the ER to get checked out, cleaned up, and treated properly. A medical report also documents your injury, which is important later on.
3. Report the Attack
Call animal control or the police and report the incident. This helps ensure the dog is properly handled and may prevent it from harming someone else. Try to get the dog owner’s name and contact info if it’s available.
4. Document What Happened
Snap a few photos of your injuries, the scene where it happened, and even the dog if it’s safe to do so. Talk to any witnesses and jot down their contact info. Keep records of medical visits, receipts, and any communication related to the incident.
5. Speak with a Dog Bite Attorney
Dog bites aren’t just painful—they can lead to serious emotional and financial stress. If the attack happened at someone’s home or in a public place, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced dog bite attorney can walk you through your options and make sure you’re treated fairly by insurance companies or property owners.
For example, consider a situation where a mail carrier is attacked by a dog while on duty, similar to a story involving a mail carrier who later adopted the dog of a Vietnam War veteran. This incident highlights the risks faced by workers and the importance of having a structured response plan. It underscores the value of legal assistance in navigating the aftermath of such attacks, ensuring fair compensation and support.
Who Is Liable After a Dog Bite in Denton?
In Texas, dog owners may be held legally responsible when their dog bites or attacks someone. Under the state’s “one bite rule,” liability usually depends on whether the owner knew the dog had shown aggression before. If the owner was aware of the risk and failed to prevent harm, they may be required to cover the victim’s medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
Even if the dog had no known history of biting, a court may still find the owner liable if they acted carelessly. For example, if a dog escapes a yard with a broken fence or is left loose during a neighborhood event, the owner could be responsible for injuries that follow. This includes situations at dog parks, sidewalks, or private homes where guests are invited.
Victims can file a personal injury claim to recover compensation. However, proving liability requires strong evidence such as witness statements, vet records, and prior complaints. An experienced injury attorney can help gather this information, deal with insurers, and fight for a fair settlement. In a case involving a serious bite, legal guidance may be the difference between a dismissed claim and a full financial recovery.
How To Stay Safe From Dogs This Summer Season
Summer brings more outdoor time for both children and dogs, which means more opportunities for bites. In Denton neighborhoods like Southridge and Oakmont, where kids often play unsupervised or visit neighbors, it is essential to set clear safety rules. Teach children to always ask the owner before approaching a dog and to avoid petting animals that are tied up, behind fences, or eating. Even familiar dogs can bite when startled or stressed.
Pet owners also play a critical role in keeping the community safe. Always secure gates, leash your dog in public, and monitor their behavior during gatherings or fireworks. If your dog shows signs of fear or aggression, remove them from the situation immediately.
At parks like North Lakes or South Lakes Dog Park, keep close control and avoid off-leash zones unless your dog is well-trained. Small steps can make a big difference in preventing a serious injury. For more information on dog bite safety, visit our articles.
FAQS
What should I do if I was bitten by a dog at a public park in Denton?
If a dog bite happened at a local park like North Lakes, South Lakes, or Eureka Playground, your safety and health come first. Get to a safe area away from the dog, and call for medical help—don’t wait, even if the bite seems minor. Report the incident to park staff or animal control, and if you can, take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the area where it happened. Try to get contact info from any witnesses nearby.
Once you’ve received medical care, reach out to Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys. Our experienced dog bite lawyers in Denton can help you explore your legal options, protect your rights, and work toward compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain. The consultation is free—let’s talk about your next steps.
Can I file a claim if I was bitten by a friend’s dog at their house?
Yes, you absolutely can—and many people in Denton are surprised to learn that doing so doesn’t mean your friend has to pay out of pocket. In most cases, homeowners’ insurance covers dog bite injuries, including medical treatment, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
We understand that these situations are sensitive. At Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys, we approach these cases with compassion and professionalism. We’ll help you file a claim discreetly and explain how it works so that you and your friend can focus on healing. Give us a call or send us a message online to get started.
I was delivering a package and got bit by a dog, do I have any legal rights?
If you were working—whether as an Amazon delivery driver, mail carrier, or contractor—and were bitten by a dog while on someone’s property, you may qualify for workers’ compensation and a personal injury claim. These two claims can work together to cover your medical costs, lost income, and other damages.
At Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys, we’ve helped many injured workers in situations just like yours. We’ll take the time to listen to your story, explain your rights clearly, and build a recovery plan tailored to your situation. Call us today to speak with a Denton dog bite lawyer who understands how these claims work and can fight for the support you deserve.
Speak With a Top-Rated Denton Dog Bite Lawyer at Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys Today
If you or your child was bitten by a dog in Denton, seek medical attention immediately by visiting the ER or scheduling a doctor’s appointment to assess the injuries sustained. At Chandler | Ross, Injury Attorneys, we bring years of experience in handling dog bite cases and have helped many injury victims across Denton, Dallas, and all of North Texas.
Our team understands how traumatizing a dog attack is, and we are ready to help you hold the right party accountable. Whether the attack happened in your neighborhood, at a friend’s house, or in a public space, each situation is handled differently and we are here to help you take the next step.
The sooner you act, the easier it is to preserve evidence and fight for your rights. Call Chandler | Ross, Injury Attorneys at (940) 800-2500 to schedule a free consultation.
