Chicago Injury Lawyer Blog
Taking your dog for a walk is a daily routine for many Chicagoans, offering both exercise and companionship. But what happens when another dog, unleashed, aggressive, or poorly controlled, attacks you or your pet during that walk? Unfortunately, dog attacks are not rare in Chicago and can result in serious injuries to both humans and animals. Understanding the causes of these attacks, your legal options, and how to protect yourself can make all the difference.
Dog Attack Statistics in Chicago
Dog bites and dog-on-dog attacks are more common than most people realize. According to the City of Chicago’s Animal Care and Control, there were over 1,500 dog bite incidents reported in 2023, with hundreds more likely going unreported. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, and approximately 800,000 require medical attention.
When it comes to pets being attacked, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) notes that aggressive interactions between dogs are among the leading causes of pet emergency vet visits.
Why Do Dog Attacks Happen During Walks?
Dog attacks during walks often stem from a lack of control by the other dog’s owner. While most people leash their pets, some knowingly or negligently allow their dogs to roam without restraint. This can quickly lead to confrontations with other dogs or people.
Common causes of dog attacks during walks include:
- Unleashed dogs running free in public parks or neighborhoods
- Aggressive or poorly trained dogs escaping from yards or homes
- Dogs reacting aggressively when improperly socialized
- Dog owners failing to intervene or control their pets during escalating encounters
Even dogs on leashes can attack if their handlers are inattentive or unable to manage a strong or aggressive animal.
Legal Responsibilities Under Chicago Law
Under Chicago Municipal Code § 7-12-030, it is illegal for any dog to be off-leash in public areas unless in a designated dog-friendly area. Dog owners are strictly liable for injuries their pets cause if the attack occurs while the dog is off-leash or not under control.
Illinois also has the Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5/16), which states that the owner of a dog that attacks or injures another person, without provocation, is liable for the resulting damages. This extends to situations where:
- The injured person was peacefully conducting themselves in a place where they had a legal right to be (e.g., walking on a sidewalk)
- The animal was not provoked
- The owner failed to properly restrain or control the dog
Injuries Resulting from Dog Attacks
Dog attacks during walks can result in a wide range of injuries for both humans and animals. Pet owners trying to separate fighting dogs may be bitten themselves or injured by falls.
Common injuries to humans include:
- Dog bite wounds requiring stitches
- Broken bones or sprains from being pulled or knocked over
- Infections from bite wounds (e.g., cellulitis, rabies risk)
- Emotional trauma or PTSD
Common injuries to pets include:
- Puncture wounds or lacerations
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Broken bones
- Long-term behavioral issues due to trauma
Vet bills for treatment after an attack can be steep, often ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
What to Do After a Dog Attack While Walking Your Dog
If you or your pet are involved in a dog attack during a walk, it’s important to act quickly and protect your legal rights.
Here’s what to do:
- Get to safety: Separate the dogs and move away from the aggressive animal.
- Call 911 or Chicago Animal Control: Report the attack immediately to create a legal record.
- Seek medical/veterinary attention: Get treated for any injuries, and keep all records and receipts.
- Get witness information: If anyone saw the incident, get their name and contact info.
- Photograph injuries and the scene: Document as much as possible.
- File a report: File an official complaint with Chicago Animal Care and Control (dial 311 or use the CHI 311 app).
Documenting everything is essential to preserving your right to pursue a claim for compensation.
Can You Sue for a Dog Attack During a Walk?
In many cases, yes. If the other dog’s owner violated leash laws or allowed an aggressive animal to roam free, they may be held liable for your medical bills, lost wages, vet bills, and even emotional distress.
You can potentially recover damages through:
- Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance (which often covers dog bites)
- A personal injury lawsuit under Illinois law
- A claim under the Illinois Animal Control Act
If your dog was killed or severely injured, the law generally treats pets as property, meaning you may recover the market value of the pet and vet costs, although emotional distress claims for pet injuries are more complex under Illinois law.
Who Is Liable in a Dog Attack While Walking Your Dog?
Liability will generally fall on the owner of the attacking dog, especially if they violated leash laws or allowed the dog to escape their property. In some situations, additional parties may be liable:
- Landlords or property managers who knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous and failed to act
- Dog walkers or pet sitters who had control over the animal during the attack
- Kennels or grooming facilities that negligently released aggressive dogs
Establishing liability is easier if the dog has a known history of aggression or if the owner failed to comply with local ordinances.
Preventing Dog Attacks While Walking Your Dog
While not all dog attacks are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk when out for a walk:
- Always keep your dog leashed and under control.
- Avoid known trouble areas where dogs are frequently off-leash.
- Carry deterrents like citronella spray or a loud whistle.
- Watch for signs of aggression from other dogs (staring, growling, tense body).
- Change your route if you see an unleashed or uncontrolled dog.
- Train your dog to follow voice commands so you can regain control quickly.
Being alert and prepared can help you avoid dangerous confrontations.
What Our Chicago Dog Attack Attorneys Can Do for You
At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how traumatic and costly a dog attack can be, especially when you or your beloved pet are injured during a peaceful walk. Our dedicated Chicago dog bite lawyers have helped victims recover compensation for medical bills, veterinary expenses, pain and suffering, and more.
We take pride in investigating every aspect of your claim, from identifying the dog owner to collecting animal control and vet records. We’ll handle communication with the insurance company and fight to get you the recovery you deserve.
Contact the Top-Rated Chicago Dog Bite Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates
If you or your pet were injured in a dog attack while out for a walk in Chicago, don’t wait. Contact the experienced Chicago dog bite attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates today to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you hold negligent dog owners accountable and get the justice and compensation you deserve.