Dog Bites on the Rise in Raleigh

Rick Patterson

Attorney

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Dog bites are a concern in many cities. Many people feel the current laws do little to protect the public at large. Raleigh, North Carolina is no exception. Raleigh residents in particular have reason for concern, as there has been a steady increase in reported dog bites in their town.

In 2007, there were 367 bites reported, which was a 56 percent increase over 2000, and the numbers are still rising. Raleigh has experienced quite a lot of growth and with that, increases of all kinds are to be expected. Although, there is no denying the numbers are disconcerting.

Part of the problem is, with as many dog bites as there are in the area, few dogs in Raleigh are declared dangerous. Despite the increase in attacks, just two or three dogs each year are declared dangerous by Raleigh's animal control officers. In fact, the law does not hold a dog owner responsible for a first attack. It really makes little sense that the victim be attacked and then foot the bills that arise out of that attack. Sure, the attack may have been unforeseen, but that is hardly a good reason to bill the victim as opposed to the owner. Many laws are simply antiquated when it comes to dogs, and medical cost, way back when, were simply not what they are today. Lawmakers really do need to consider holding dog owners financially liable for harm to victims of their pets whether it be the first offense or not. It is simply the right thing to do.