Plano Dog Bite Lawyer

Plano is one of the most vibrant and fast-growing cities in North Texas, with thriving neighborhoods, walkable parks, and pet-friendly communities. But when a dog suddenly attacks, the consequences can be devastating. Whether you were bitten at Jack Carter Park, walking through West Plano’s Legacy corridor, or visiting a neighbor in Willow Bend, a dog bite can leave you facing serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and sometimes lifelong injuries.

At Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys, we represent victims of dog bites throughout Plano. We understand that beyond the pain, there’s often confusion: Who’s responsible? Will the dog be taken away? Can you get your medical bills covered? We’re here to provide answers—and fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve for your injuries.

Dog Bites: A Common Threat in a Pet-Friendly City

Dog attacks happen more often than many people realize. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that over 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the U.S., with hundreds of thousands needing medical attention. Many occur in seemingly calm situations—on a neighborhood walk, at a friend’s house, or simply passing by a front yard.

Common injuries include:

• Torn skin and deep puncture wounds
• Crushed nerves and muscle damage
• Broken bones or dislocated joints
• Serious infections such as rabies, MRSA, or tetanus
• Facial disfigurement or permanent scarring that may require plastic surgery, and loss of function
• Long-term psychological trauma, such as anxiety and PTSD, especially for children

In walkable areas like Downtown Plano or Oak Point Park trails, dog encounters are frequent. When those animal interactions go wrong, your first priority should be safety, medical care, and then obtaining legal representation.

Understanding Dog Bite Liability in Texas and Plano

Texas law does not have a specific statute for dog bite claims. Instead, the state uses the “one bite rule” and general negligence law, as clarified in the Texas Supreme Court in Marshall v. Ranne., 511 S.W.2d 255 (1974). Plano residents also fall under local ordinances enforced by Plano Animal Services.

Here’s what matters when you are involved in a serious incident involving someone’s pet:

• If a dog has previously bitten someone or shown signs of aggression, the owner can be held strictly liable for future attacks. This means the owner was aware of the dog’s behavior and tendencies. 
• If the dog had no known history, you may still be able to receive compensation through proving that the dog owner was negligent—for example, failing to leash their animal in a public place or allowing it to escape a yard due to inadequate fencing. 

Violations of Plano’s leash laws (under City Code Chapter 15) or inadequate fencing in densely populated areas like Park Forest or Chase Oaks can be grounds for a negligence claim.

What Happens to the Dog After a Bite in Plano?

It’s natural to feel conflicted about what happens to the animal, especially if the dog belongs to someone you know or you are a fellow dog lover. In most cases, reporting the bite will not result in the dog being euthanized. It is mostly rare for a dog to be euthanized and even so, it will be left to the owner’s discretion to make that final decision. 

Plano Animal Services will:

• Investigate the incident and determine the dog’s vaccination status.
• Quarantine the dog (typically 10 days) if there’s a rabies concern. The animal is typically returned back to the owner after this time period.
• Issue a “dangerous dog” designation if the animal has a history of aggression, which requires the owner to meet stricter regulations: secure enclosures, signage, and proof of liability insurance.

Only in extreme cases—where the dog is uncontrollable or is verified as a rabies threat—will euthanasia be considered. It is important to note that filing a lawsuit or an insurance claim does not mean the dog will be put down.

Why You Need a Plano Dog Bite Attorney

Dog bite claims often turn into legal battles between victims and powerful insurance companies. You shouldn’t have to handle it alone.

At Chandler Ross, we work hard for you by:

• Investigating the bite. Gather key evidence (animal control reports, witness statements, medical records), and research any prior complaints regarding the owner’s animal. 
• Proving liability. Either through analyzing prior behavior or negligent ownership.
• Handling all insurance negotiations. We understand this is a complex process and something insurers are highly skilled at. Let us help you during this process while you focus on healing and getting in a better headspace and have a better physical recovery. 
• Building a strong case. Backed by expert testimony, when necessary, and understanding the dull details of your unique situation. 
• Representing you in court if insurers won’t offer a fair settlement. We don’t want you to accept a low-ball offer. Even if you feel your injuries are minor, it’s best to seek medical attention for your injuries and to thoroughly get evaluated by a medical professional. Incurring medical costs can become stressful over time, which is why we anticipate situations like this when fighting to obtain the best compensation for you.
• Work on contingency—you don’t pay unless we win. You focus on getting better and we handle the legal aspects. And again, we only get paid if we recover something for you, so there is zero risk.

We treat your case with the urgency and respect it deserves. Facing an unexpected dog bite while out for the weekend or taking a daily stroll in your neighborhood is unfortunate. No one plans to face such an incident and it can disrupt your life. We empathize with dog bite victims and truly want you to feel understood. If you are seeking help on the next steps to take after a dog bit you, feel free to fill out our online form here. 

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

The impact of a dog attack extends far beyond the bite itself. We help clients in Plano pursue compensation for:

• Hospital bills, surgery, and physical therapy
• Future medical treatment (especially in pediatric cases)
• Lost wages and diminished future income
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disfigurement, impairment, and loss of mobility
• Emotional distress, counseling, or PTSD-related care

Most dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renters’ insurance policy.

7 Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Plano, TX

If you or your child has been bitten, proceed to the following steps:

1. Move to a safe place and assess the injury.
2. Wash the wound thoroughly and control bleeding.
3. Seek immediate medical attention—even minor bites can become serious.
4. Get the dog owner’s contact and vaccination info if possible.
5. File a report with the Plano Animal Services Department.
6. Take photos of your injuries and document all care.
7. Contact Chandler Ross for a free case review.

Early action helps protect your health and your legal rights. During your initial consultation, we will discuss your case with you honestly and give you a straightforward answer as to what we believe the case is worth. We will explain your legal options, explore all avenues for recovery, and fully answer any questions you may have. This is all done at no charge, and there is zero obligation to move forward. If you are ready to move forward and would like to seek justice for serious injuries sustained after a recent dog bite in Plano, contact our firm today by calling (940) 800-2500.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Cases in Plano, Texas

Will filing a claim mean the dog gets taken away or euthanized?

No. Most dogs are quarantined for 10 days and released back to their owner after this observation period. Only if repeat attacks or confirmed rabies cases occur then the dog may need to be euthanized. Even if this becomes a possibility at some point, it will be up to the dog owner’s discretion. They are usually the ones making the decision to do that, not a government entity.

What if the attack happened at a family member’s or friend’s house?

You can still file a personal injury claim. Their homeowner’s insurance policy typically covers liability. These claims rarely involve out-of-pocket costs for the dog owner. It’s important to seek the medical attention you need after a dog bite incident. Starting a paper trail and developing a recovery plan are crucial for physical and emotional well-being. Let us help you focus on your healing journey while we help fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us through our online form or give us a call at (940) 800-2800.

Can I still recover compensation if this was the dog’s first bite?

Yes—if the owner failed to act responsibly (e.g., let the dog run loose, failed to restrain it, etc.). Negligence alone can support your dog bite personal injury claim. Especially if the owner was aware of their animal’s behaviors and past tendencies. It’s best to discuss the details of your dog bite incident with an experienced Plano personal injury attorney. Our team of seasoned attorneys are here to help guide you through this complex process.

Is there a deadline to file a dog bite injury lawsuit in Texas?

Yes. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is two years from the date of the incident. If you are unsure if you meet the time frame, contact our office and we will analyze your dog bite incident. We understand the aftermath of a dog bite incident is overwhelming, confusing, and stressful to handle alone. Our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of dog bite cases so that you can focus on getting better and living a normal life again.