Being bitten by a dog is a traumatic experience that can leave you shaken and uncertain about what to do next. In Michigan, taking the right steps immediately after a dog bite can protect your health, preserve your legal rights, and strengthen any potential injury claim. This guide walks you through exactly what you need to do in the critical hours and days following a dog attack.
Updated for 2026 — Reviewed and current with Michigan law as of 2026. Bitten in Michigan? Get a free case review — we handle dog bite cases in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties and throughout Michigan.
Step 1: Get to Safety and Assess the Situation
Your first priority is removing yourself from danger. If the dog is still aggressive or nearby:
Move to a safe location away from the animal
Do not run, as this may trigger the dog’s chase instinct
If possible, put a barrier between you and the dog (car, fence, closed door)
Call 911 if you’re in immediate danger or severely injured
Once you’re safe, quickly assess your injuries. Dog bites can range from minor puncture wounds to severe lacerations, crush injuries, or even life-threatening trauma.
Step 2: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
This is the most critical step. Always seek medical care after a dog bite, even if the wound seems minor. Here’s why:
Why Medical Care Is Essential
- Infection risk: Dog bites carry a high risk of infection due to bacteria in the dog’s mouth, including Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Capnocytophaga
- Rabies concern: While rare, rabies is fatal if untreated. Medical professionals can assess rabies risk and administer post-exposure prophylaxis if needed
- Hidden damage: Puncture wounds may appear small on the surface but can cause significant damage to underlying tissues, muscles, tendons, and nerves
- Documentation: Medical records create an official record of your injuries, which is crucial for any legal claim
Where to Seek Treatment
For serious injuries (deep wounds, heavy bleeding, injuries to the face, hands, or joints):
Call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency room
Beaumont Hospital, Henry Ford Hospital, and other Metro Detroit ERs are equipped to handle dog bite injuries
For moderate injuries:
Visit an urgent care center
See your primary care physician as soon as possible
Initial Wound Care (Before Professional Treatment)
While waiting for medical help:
- Wash the wound gently with soap and warm water for 5-10 minutes
- Apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding
- Cover the wound with a sterile bandage
- Do NOT use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can damage tissue
Step 3: Document Everything
Creating a detailed record immediately after the incident is crucial for both medical and legal purposes.
Photograph Your Injuries
Take clear photos of all bite wounds from multiple angles
Include photos showing the size and depth of wounds
Take new photos every few days to document healing or complications
Photograph torn or bloody clothing
Don’t clean up too much before photographing—evidence matters
Photograph the Scene
If safe to do so:
Take photos of where the attack occurred
Document any dangerous conditions (broken fence, lack of warning signs, poor lighting)
Photograph the dog if possible (from a safe distance)
Take wide shots showing the overall area
Write Down What Happened
As soon as possible, write a detailed account including:
Date, time, and exact location of the attack
What you were doing when the dog attacked
Whether the dog was leashed or confined
Any warnings or provocation (or lack thereof)
The dog’s behavior before, during, and after the attack
What the owner said or did
Names and contact information of any witnesses
Weather and lighting conditions
Pro tip: Send yourself an email with this information immediately after the incident. The timestamp creates a verifiable record.
Step 4: Get Information About the Dog and Owner
This information is critical for medical treatment (rabies risk assessment) and any legal claim.
Essential Information to Collect
Owner’s full name, address, and phone number
Dog’s breed, color, size, and name
Dog’s vaccination history, especially rabies vaccination
Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance information
Whether the dog has bitten anyone before
Whether the owner was aware of any aggressive tendencies
How to Get This Information
Ask the owner directly (remain calm and factual)
If the owner refuses, note this in your documentation
Ask witnesses if they know the dog or owner
Contact animal control—they may have records on file
Take a photo of the property where the attack occurred
If the owner fled the scene or refuses to provide information, this doesn’t end your case—it makes reporting to authorities even more important.
Step 5: Report the Bite to Authorities
Michigan law requires certain dog bites to be reported. Even when not legally required, reporting creates an official record and protects future victims.
Contact Animal Control
Every Michigan jurisdiction has an animal control agency. In Metro Detroit:
Detroit: Detroit Animal Care and Control – (313) 922-3453
Oakland County: Oakland County Animal Control – (248) 858-1070
Macomb County: Macomb County Animal Control – (586) 469-5115
Wayne County: Michigan Humane Society – (313) 872-3401
What to report:
Your contact information
Date, time, and location of the bite
Description of the dog and owner
Details of the attack
Your injuries
Whether you sought medical treatment
Animal control will investigate and may quarantine the dog to observe for rabies.
File a Police Report
For serious injuries or if the attack involved:
A dog with a history of aggression
An owner who fled the scene
Violation of local leash laws
Trespassing onto your property
Attacks on children
Contact your local police department. A police report creates an official record that can support your legal claim.
Report to Your Local Health Department
Some Michigan health departments require healthcare providers to report dog bites, but you can also report directly:
Provides public health tracking
Helps identify dangerous dogs in the community
Creates additional documentation of your incident
Step 6: Preserve All Evidence
Evidence preservation is crucial for building a strong legal case.
Keep Everything
Bloody or torn clothing (place in a paper bag, not plastic)
Shoes or accessories damaged in the attack
Any personal items (phone, glasses, etc.) broken during the incident
Receipts for torn clothing or damaged items
Save All Medical Documentation
Emergency room records and discharge papers
Doctor’s notes from all appointments
Prescription records
Medical bills and receipts
Physical therapy or rehabilitation records
Mental health counseling records if seeking treatment for trauma
Track Your Expenses
Create a file (digital or physical) with:
All medical bills
Pharmacy receipts
Mileage to medical appointments
Lost wages documentation
Receipts for medical equipment (bandages, slings, etc.)
Out-of-pocket expenses related to the injury
Step 7: Keep a Recovery Journal
Starting immediately and continuing throughout your recovery, maintain a daily journal documenting:
Physical Symptoms
Pain levels (rate 1-10)
Mobility limitations
Sleep disruptions
Medication side effects
Infection signs or complications
Progress with physical therapy
Emotional Impact
Anxiety around dogs
Nightmares or flashbacks
Fear of going outside
Impact on daily activities
Social withdrawal
Any PTSD symptoms
Life Disruptions
Work days missed
Activities you can’t participate in
Help needed from family members
Canceled plans or events
Impact on hobbies or exercise
This journal becomes powerful evidence of how the injury affected your life beyond just medical bills.
Step 8: Notify Your Insurance Company
Depending on your circumstances, you may need to notify:
Your Health Insurance
Most health insurance plans cover dog bite injuries
Let them know the injury was caused by a dog bite
They may seek subrogation (reimbursement) from the dog owner’s insurance
Your Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance
If the bite occurred on your property
If the attacking dog is yours (though this article assumes you’re the victim)
Important: When speaking with insurance companies, stick to basic facts. Don’t admit fault or speculate about your injuries. Consider speaking with an attorney before giving detailed statements.
Step 9: Be Cautious About Communication
In the aftermath of a dog bite, you may be contacted by various parties. Protect your legal rights:
The Dog Owner May Contact You
Be polite but cautious
Don’t accept immediate settlement offers
Don’t sign anything without legal review
Don’t agree to not pursue legal action
Document all communication
The Owner’s Insurance Company May Contact You
You are NOT required to give a recorded statement
Do not discuss the full extent of your injuries (they may be worse than initially apparent)
Refer them to your attorney if you’ve hired one
Don’t accept early settlement offers—you don’t yet know the full cost of your injuries
Social Media Warning
Do NOT post about the incident on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or other platforms
Insurance companies routinely monitor social media to find evidence to devalue claims
Even innocent posts can be misinterpreted or taken out of context
Avoid posting photos that suggest you’re not injured or recovering well
Step 10: Understand Michigan’s Dog Bite Law
Michigan has a strict liability statute for dog bites, which works in victims’ favor.
What Michigan’s Dog Bite Law Means for You
Under Michigan Compiled Law 287.351:
Dog owners are strictly liable for bites, meaning you don’t need to prove the owner was negligent
You don’t need to prove the dog had bitten before
You don’t need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous
The owner is liable if you were lawfully on the property and didn’t provoke the dog
When You’re “Lawfully” on the Property
You’re lawfully present if you were:
On public property (sidewalk, park, street)
Invited to private property (social guest, delivery person)
Performing legal duties (mail carrier, meter reader)
On your own property when the dog trespassed
What Is “Provocation”?
Provocation is the main defense dog owners use. You did NOT provoke the dog if you were:
Simply walking by
Playing normally with the dog
Petting the dog with permission
Acting in self-defense
Provocation typically requires intentional abuse or tormenting of the animal.
Damages You Can Recover
Michigan dog bite victims may recover:
All medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress and mental anguish
Scarring and disfigurement
Disability or loss of quality of life
Step 11: Know the Statute of Limitations
In Michigan, you have three years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit. However:
Don’t wait—evidence fades and witnesses become harder to locate
Some cases settle before filing a lawsuit, but negotiations take time
If the bite victim is a minor, different rules may apply
Starting the legal process early gives your attorney more time to build a strong case
Step 12: Consider Consulting a Dog Bite Attorney
While not every dog bite requires an attorney, you should strongly consider legal representation if:
Your injuries required emergency room treatment, surgery, or hospitalization
You have permanent scarring, especially on visible areas like the face, neck, or hands
You’ve missed significant time from work
The dog owner is disputing liability or claiming you provoked the attack
The insurance company has denied your claim or offered an unreasonably low settlement
You’re experiencing PTSD, anxiety, or other psychological effects
The bite victim is a child
You’re facing long-term medical treatment or disability
Benefits of Hiring an Attorney
Free initial consultations (most dog bite attorneys work on contingency—no upfront costs)
Accurate valuation of your claim
Handling all communication with insurance companies
Gathering evidence and building your case
Negotiating maximum settlement
Taking your case to trial if necessary
Experience with Michigan’s specific dog bite laws
What to Bring to Your Consultation
All medical records and bills
Photos of injuries and the scene
Animal control and police reports
Contact information for the dog owner
Your recovery journal
Insurance correspondence
List of witnesses
Michigan-Specific Considerations
Local Ordinances
Many Michigan cities have additional dog control ordinances:
Leash laws
Breed-specific regulations
Dangerous dog designations
Fencing requirements
Violations of these ordinances can strengthen your case.
Dangerous Dog Designation
If a dog has bitten before or shows dangerous tendencies, Michigan law allows courts to designate it as a “dangerous animal,” requiring:
Secure confinement
Warning signs
Liability insurance
Registration requirements
Your report to animal control can trigger this process, protecting future victims.
One-Bite Rule Exceptions
While Michigan is generally a strict liability state for dog bites, the “one-bite rule” may apply for:
Injuries other than bites (knockdowns, scratches from jumping)
Attacks by animals other than dogs
These cases require proving the owner knew or should have known of dangerous propensities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Minimize Your Injuries
Adrenaline can mask pain initially
Some injuries (nerve damage, infections, PTSD) develop over time
Saying “I’m fine” can be used against you later
Don’t Delay Medical Treatment
Gaps in treatment suggest injuries aren’t serious
Infections can develop days after a bite
Insurance companies look for treatment delays to devalue claims
Don’t Give Recorded Statements
You may unintentionally say something that hurts your case
You don’t yet know the full extent of your injuries
Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to minimize your claim
Don’t Accept Quick Settlement Offers
Early offers rarely reflect the true value of your claim
You can’t predict future medical needs or complications
Once you settle, you can’t reopen the claim if problems develop
Don’t Forget About Emotional Damages
PTSD from dog attacks is real and compensable
Fear of dogs, anxiety, and nightmares are common
Children are especially vulnerable to psychological trauma
Mental health treatment is a recoverable expense
Special Considerations for Child Victims
Children are disproportionately affected by dog bites and face unique challenges:
Why Children Are at Higher Risk
Smaller size makes facial injuries more common
Less able to read warning signs from dogs
More likely to approach unfamiliar dogs
Less able to defend themselves
Additional Steps for Parents
Document behavioral changes (nightmares, fear of dogs, regression)
Consider child psychologist evaluation even if physical injuries seem minor
Keep detailed records of missed school or activities
Photograph healing process as children’s scars can change as they grow
Understand that settlement may require court approval to protect the child’s interests
Long-Term Considerations
Scarring may require revision surgeries as the child grows
Psychological impact may not fully emerge until years later
Future medical expenses should be factored into settlements
When the Dog Owner Has No Insurance
If the dog owner lacks homeowner’s or renter’s insurance:
You may still pursue a claim against the owner personally
The owner’s assets may be subject to judgment
Your own health insurance covers initial medical treatment
Your homeowner’s or auto insurance may provide coverage under medical payments provisions
An attorney can help identify all potential sources of recovery
Moving Forward: Focus on Recovery
The immediate aftermath of a dog bite is overwhelming, but taking these steps protects both your health and your legal rights. Remember:
- Your health comes first—seek medical care immediately
- Document everything while details are fresh
- Report the bite to create official records
- Preserve all evidence
- Be cautious about communications
- Don’t rush into settlements
- Consult an experienced Michigan dog bite attorney
Dog bite cases can be complex, but Michigan’s strict liability law provides strong protections for victims. By following these steps immediately after an attack, you’re building the foundation for both physical recovery and fair compensation for your injuries.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about dog bites in Michigan and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every dog bite case is unique. For specific guidance about your situation, consult with a qualified Michigan dog bite attorney who can evaluate the facts of your case and advise you on the best course of action.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Michigan and need legal guidance, contact our experienced dog bite attorneys for a free consultation. We understand Michigan’s dog bite laws and can help you navigate the recovery process while fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing I should do after a dog bite in Michigan?
Get medical attention even if the wound looks minor. Dog bites get infected fast and the medical record is the foundation of any claim. Then get the owner’s information and report the bite to local animal control.
Who do I call after a dog bite in Michigan?
Call 911 if injuries are serious. Otherwise call your doctor or go to urgent care, then call local animal control to report the bite. If you’re considering a claim, talk to a lawyer before talking to the dog owner’s insurance company.
Should I take pictures of a dog bite?
Yes – photograph the wounds, the location where it happened, the dog if possible, and the dog owner’s property. Take pictures throughout healing to document scarring.
How long do I have to act after a dog bite in Michigan?
Michigan generally gives you three years to file a lawsuit, but evidence and witness memory degrade fast. Don’t wait to start gathering documentation.
Talk to a Michigan Dog Bite Lawyer
If you were bitten in Michigan, the conversation about what to do next is free — and there’s no downside to having it. We represent dog bite victims throughout Michigan, including Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. You pay nothing unless we win. Get your free case review today.