Dogs may be man’s best friend—but for victims of dog bites, it can feel more like a nightmare.
In California, more than 2,000 dog bite claims are filed every year, resulting in millions of dollars in damages. As such, the state takes dog bites seriously and prioritizes public safety.
Although some cases can result in a dog being euthanized, it’s not automatic. There is a clear legal process in place designed to protect victims, dog owners, and the animals themselves.
Read more to learn what happens after a dog bite, when euthanasia might be considered, and how you can protect your rights if you are bitten.
Under California law, a dog can be officially labeled as either “dangerous” or “vicious”—and the distinction can affect everything, from the owner’s insurance responsibilities to whether the dog faces strict restrictions or even euthanasia.
A dog may be considered dangerous if it has:
- Aggressively bitten, attacked, or endangered someone without being provoked.
- Bitten a person, causing less severe injuries on two separate occasions within 36 months.
- Seriously injured or killed another domestic animal unprovoked.
On the other hand, the California Food and Agriculture Code Section 31603 defines a vicious dog as:
- Unprovoked but aggressively attacks someone, resulting in severe injury or death.
- Previously deemed dangerous and continues aggressive behavior despite precautions.
These designations have a significant impact on the dog’s future. Owners might be required to:
- Carry special liability insurance;
- Keep the dog confined and under strict conditions;
- Muzzle the dog in public; or
- Face court-ordered euthanasia in extreme cases.
Dogs usually undergo a behavior evaluation before a final decision is carried out to assess whether rehabilitation is still possible.
When and Why Dogs Might Be Euthanized After a Bite
No one wants to lose a beloved furry companion this way. But in some cases, euthanasia becomes part of the legal process. It may be considered in particular situations and always with careful review and due process since California law aims to protect both animal welfare and public safety.
In most cases, before a dog can be euthanized, there must be:
- A formal hearing to determine whether the dog is dangerous or vicious
- A chance for the dog’s owner to challenge the findings or appeal the decision
Euthanasia might be required if:
- The bite, especially unprovoked ones, caused severe injuries or death.
- The dog has a history of biting or aggression, and previous interventions didn’t work.
- A dog legally declared “dangerous” or “vicious” may be euthanized if it continues to be aggressive or if containment rules are violated.
It’s important to know that emotional factors alone don’t drive these decisions. Agencies and courts base outcomes on specific legal standards to ensure fairness to all parties, including the dog.
Legal Rights and Options for Dog Bite Victims
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, health and recovery should be your priority. Thankfully, you may seek compensation for your injuries under California law. It allows you to pursue compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
Remember, as a victim, you don’t control what happens to the dog. Instead, public health authorities and the courts decide on that matter. Your primary responsibility is to report the incident and document everything carefully. Your report and documentation can provide valuable evidence if authorities need to evaluate the dog’s behavior.
What Should You Do After a Dog Bite?
If you or a loved one suffers from a dog bite, here’s what you should do immediately:
- Seek medical attention: Even minor bites can cause infections or serious complications.
- Report the incident to animal control: An official report triggers necessary health and safety investigations.
- Document everything: Take photos of your injuries, keep copies of medical records, and write down everything you remember about the incident.
What Happens After a Dog Bite
Besides leaving physical scars, a dog bite can cause emotional trauma and financial strain on a victim and their family. In the aftermath, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by medical bills, insurance paperwork, and the legal system.
You deserve real support, clear guidance, and someone who will fight for your recovery every step of the way.
At RMD Law, we understand that dog bite cases aren’t always simple. That’s especially true if they involve sensitive issues like California dog bite law and euthanasia. An expert dog bite lawyer from our team will protect your rights and pursue your fair compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t wait. Get checked out by medical professionals—and then reach out to us for a free consultation. We’ll take the legal burden off your shoulders while you heal and move forward.
